Looking for something fun and unique to do on the weekend? Join the IMMS Sea Explorers Club!! Each Saturday, IMMS will offer classes that explore a variety of marine-themed topics and activities. Participants will earn a “Passport to Adventure” for every course as well as a certificate for completion of each activity. The Sea Explorers Club is a great way for kids and adults to learn about the marine environment while having a great time! Please see below for details on each course offered, or call (228) 896-9182 for more information. We hope to see you soon!
See the activities that are currently being offered and view the to see when each meeting will be held.
Go behind the scenes and see what it takes to rehab a sick or injured marine animal. Do you know what to do if you see a stranded dolphin or sea turtle on the beach? You’ll learn how IMMS responds to dolphin and sea turtle strandings, and how you can help! Kids and adults will have a chance to save the day by participating in a dolphin rescue relay race. Includes a behind the scenes tour of CMER.
Every time we visit our Gulf Coast beaches, we see trash that has washed ashore. We know that pollution is bad for the environment, but do you really know how debris and pollution affects marine life? Spend an afternoon at IMMS to learn about recycling and the simple ways you can help clean up the marine environment. You will also learn how to make beautiful and useful treasures using commonly discarded items.
Have you ever wanted to see a SCUBA diver in action or experience the freedom of snorkeling? Here's your chance! Watch a live SCUBA demonstration, investigate the gear, and learn safety procedures. Afterward, learn to snorkel on-site, in a safe supervised environment. Snorkel gear and life jackets will be provided.
Interested in fish? This class is for you! You’ll learn different fishing techniques, see how overfishing is affecting our oceans, and create realistic fish paintings. Members will have a chance to practice their fishing skills by throwing cast nets, baiting crab traps, and using a rod and reel. Learn about fish anatomy, and then try your hand at Gyotaku, the Japanese art of fish painting! Everyone will create their own Gyotaku t-shirt as a souvenir.
Interested in a career in marine science, but not sure how to get there? Join us for the Sea Explorer’s Club “Careers with Fins and Flippers” and learn about career options, job responsibilities, and how to best prepare for each marine science position. You’ll also have the opportunity to experience some “on-the-job” activities!
Club meetings are held at the Center for Marine Education and Research. Meetings begin at 1:30 PM and are approximately 2 hours in length. The club is intended for explorers from ages 8 to 80! Guardians may register along with their child. Guardians are allowed to register one child under the age of seven but not younger than 5 years of age as long as the guardian is also registered and present for the meeting. To register, call (228) 896-9182.
Cancellation Policy
Full refunds will be given for cancellations made 48 hours in advance. 50% refunds will be given for cancellations made 24 hours in advance. No refunds will be given for cancellation made less than 24 hours in advance.
Space is limited. Reserve your adventure today!
Getting here is easy!
Institute for Marine Mammal Studies
10801 Dolphin Lane
Gulfport, MS 39503
Office phone: (228) 896-9182
Office fax: (228) 896-9183