Where does the Explorers Program take place?

In-Person Discovery Programs

Groups can choose to have an interactive classroom experience, field-based programs, or a combination of both. 

Discovery Programs are scheduled in one to four-hour blocks. These are ideal for groups that prefer single-day programs or want to incorporate REEF Discovery Programs into a broader travel itinerary. 

Most land-based programs occur at the REEF Campus in Key Largo, Florida. REEF can also provide offsite programming at meeting spaces or field locations secured by the group. Field-based programs normally take place near Key Largo, FL, but the program can also be brought to sites throughout South Florida and the Florida Keys. 

Expeditions

Expedition programs can be scheduled for one to four-hour blocks, single-day programs, multi-day programs, or week-long programs. Typically groups schedule these as multi-day or week-long programs that are ideal for a schedule based around the REEF Program instead of fitting into a broader itinerary. 

Expeditions can be scheduled to occur within the Florida Keys, South Florida, or anywhere in the Tropical Western Atlantic (South Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean). If your group wishes to schedule an Expedition outside of the Florida Keys, the request must be made a minimum of 180 days/6 months prior to the desired program start date. 

Who can sign up for REEF Ocean Explorers Programs?

Discovery Programs are open to groups of any kind under 30 people. If your group is larger than 30 participants, please contact explorers@REEF.org or call 305-852-0030 as additional fees may apply. 

Expedition programs are open to groups of any kind, keeping in mind that the program rates will vary based on group size and the number of participants. Groups with participants under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. The teachers/adult chaperones accompanying the group are directly responsible for students at all times, including during free time and meals and in the lodging overnight. 

If I am an individual and want to join an Expedition, is that an option? 

Yes, you can join a Service Learning Trip called Ocean Explorers Field Survey Trips. For more information on upcoming trips, click here. 

What opportunities do you have for educators?

Join a Citizen Science Workshop for Educators in Key Largo, FL! More information on upcoming workshops can be found here. 

Can we learn about more than one Program Topic or area of study?

Yes, many groups participate in multiple program topics, experiencing the unique activities and lessons associated with each. We can design a custom itinerary for your group. Please visit our Program Topics page to view the core areas of study we pull from. 

How much does the program cost?

Prices vary depending on the length of the program and the number of days and activities you request. We will explain pricing and send a detailed estimate for your specific program prior to a program deposit being made. Please visit our Policies & Pricing Page for details on the typical pricing structure. 

What is Oceans for All and how is it used for the Ocean Explorers Education Programs?

We are creating opportunities for the next generation of ocean stewards and supporting foundational change in marine conservation through the Oceans for All initiative. It supports scholarships, programming, and outreach activities to provide experience and increase awareness of marine conservation opportunities amongst groups who are underrepresented and those with financial need. 

If you or your group is in need of financial support for REEF's Ocean Explorers Education Programs, email explorers@REEF.org for more information. 

We had so much fun with REEF during our Ocean Explorers Program. Can we return for more advanced training and levels?

Yes! REEF is excited to have past participants return for more ocean fun and education. As stated under our Program Topics page, programs are customized to the needs of the group and can be altered based on experience and knowledge base. 

Many Expedition groups and Discovery Program participants return annually for REEF Ocean Explorers Programs. 

Do you offer any type of Professional Development Credit for teachers?

Teachers can join in any REEF Field Survey Trip and earn Professional Development Credit. You can choose the trip location and dates that work for you while you snorkelor SCUBA dove as a citizen scientist. Return to the classroom with a unique field experience to share and firsthand knowledge of fish identification and behavior, biodiversity, and human impacts on ocean ecosystems. 2.5 units available from the University of California at San Diego. Contact explorers@REEF.org for credit information. 

How can I receive information regularly regarding your Ocean Explorers Education Program offerings?

If you're looking to receive regular updates on specific education programs, updates, or outreach events, sign up for our Ocean Explorers mailing list. Click here to join. 

More Questions?

If we haven't answered your question here, please feel free to contact us by phone at (305) 852-0030 or email us at explorers@REEF.org.