Dolphins and whales in summer, seals and whales in winter. These air breathing creatures are specially adapted to existence in a watery environment. Artifacts, demonstration, and hands on activity are used to illustrate the life history of these great beasts, and how people are helping them in their fight for survival. This cruise takes place on a twin hull, aluminum pontoon boat, the ideal floating classroom for shallow water habitats. Cruise participants record data on fish collected with nets and from various traps around the harbor, identify animals collected with a benthic sled, and make various water quality assessments.
Classes take data back to the classroom suitable for follow-up analysis.
The vessel used in this program, Skimmer, is owned and operated by Back Bay Cruises, a local charter boat company. Skimmer has a full aluminum canopy, so occupants are protected from sun and rain. The vessel has passed all Coast Guard inspections. These programs make a great introduction to a field trip, or can function as a highlight of a curriculum unit on marine animals. In addition to regular per hour charges, mileage and travel time charges apply.