President’s message President’s message
Dear Friends, s to the passion of our vision ering support of our donors an Institute continues to thri a snapshot of the incredible have helped create: new progra access, and unforgettable experiences for students and families alike.
Together, we are creating meaningful change, empowering young minds, advancing ocean literacy, and inspiring curiosity that will ripple far into the future.
Thank you for being a part of it.
Dr. Wend
Demand for our Adopt-A-Class Program is growing, with more schools applying than ever before. While nearly 4,000 students have benefited this past school year, countless others are still waiting. Your support can change that by providing transformative, hands-on learning experiences that connect science and history to the real world through marine exploration, coastal ecology, and tall ship adventures, igniting curiosity and confidence in the next generation.
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THIS SCHOOL YEAR...
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Totalschoolfieldtrip programsserved
3,745 536 13,799
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Ocean Education Field Trips: From preschool to college, our field trips offer all students an opportunity to deep dive into marine science through interactive labs, tide pool explorations, and research cruises Programs like A House for Hermit Crab, Marine Mammal Lab & Cruise, and Advanced Floating Lab allow students to study marine life up close, conduct real scientific research, and explore California's coastal ecosystems Overnight expeditions, including the Catalina Island Safari and CA Coastal Ecology provide deeper immersion into environmental science and conservation
Living History Field Trips: History comes to life aboard our tall ship where students step into the shoes of 18thcentury sailors, gold rush pioneers, and revolutionaries Programs like Before the Mast, Revolutionary Voyage, and Maritime Leadership Academy teach teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership as students navigate California's rich maritime history
OURMISSION WAYS TO SUPPORT...
Become a volunteer!
Volunteering at Ocean Institute is a meaningful way to support marine education and conservation while joining a passionate community dedicated to protecting and celebrating our oceans.
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Ocean Institute is more than a destination - it’s a hub for exploration, education, and community connection. Through a diverse lineup of public programs, we are honored to bring people of all ages closer to the wonders of the ocean.
Our commu festival goer our educatio connection h classroom for learners of all ages.
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CANNON BATTLES
PIRATE SHOWS
Join us in celebrating California’s rich maritime heritage and deep connection to the sea with a weekend packed full of adventure, excitement, and seafaring fun!
Experience awe in the face of a fleet of seven visiting tall ships, feel the thrill of booming cannon battles, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a bustling sailor’s camp.
MERMAIDS SAiLs N’ ALES
Sip on craft brews at the Sails n’ Ales beer kickoff event and relax in the Mission Brewery Beer Garden, all while enjoying live music, reenactors, and captivating mermaid swim shows. Kids and adults alike can embrace their inner buccaneer at Pirate School, browse unique finds from specialized vendors, and indulge in delicious bites from local food trucks.
September 12th - 14th
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Estuaries are nature’s nurseries, where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean, creating one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth!
These dynamic habitats support an incredible variety of wildlife, from tiny shrimp and resilient oysters, to majestic herons and playful otters. Over 75% of commercially caught fish species depend on estuaries at some point in their life cycle.
Acting as natural water filters, estuaries trap pollutants and sediments, improving water quality before it reaches the open ocean. Estuaries also serve as coastal buffers, absorbing storm surges and reducing the impact of hurricanes and rising tides. Despite their importance in biodiversity, water cleanliness, and inland safety, estuaries are highly susceptible to threats of pollution and habitat destruction.
*Bonus crossword answer on last page
Fiddler Crab