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Our success is bringing science and environmental education to the Bay Area.

The Marine Science Institute provides engaging and interactive hands-on adventures with San Francisco Bay Area marine life. Led by a team of expert marine science educators, these experiences impact students of all ages, inspiring respect and stewardship for the marine environment.

Whale watching excursion

Public Events

Public and Family Style events happen most Saturdays. Come out on our ship, in our canoes, to the coast for tide pool excursions, whale watching, the fun never ends!

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Birthday Parites

Celebrate your child’s special day with a birthday on the Bay! Outdoor and indoor spaces are available for games, presents, cakes, and more. Activities are led by our knowledgeable and fun Marine Educators.

campers touching live marine animals

Afternoon Ecology

Our "afterschool" educational programs are perfect for K - 5th graders. It is designed to foster the natural curiosity of young minds. Classes happen Thursdays, 3:30 - 5 PM.

Field trips and mobile programs

The Marine Science Institute provides a scientific experience built on California standards-based activities and a memorable voyage into nature for students of all economic backgrounds. The Marine Science Institute puts students ages pre-K to College, in physical contact with the SF Bay and coast environments to help cultivate their natural sense of curiosity, enrich their understanding of science, and foster a responsibility to protect the environment.

Discover all our field trip options  here.

90 foort research vessel
Discovery Voyage

Monday - Saturday

8 am - 12 pm, 1 pm - 5 pm

Grades 5 and up

$1,350 - 2,650 per trip*

*Sliding scale available depending on need. Click here to apply for sponsorship
trailer with live leopard sharks
Inland Voyage

Monday - Saturday

50 minutes per session

Grades K and up

$450* for first 1-3 sessions

*Sliding scale available depending on need. Click here to apply for sponsorship
students at tide pools
Tidepool Expedition

Monday - Saturday

2.5 hour program

Grades 3 and up

$550 - 750 per trip*

*Sliding scale available depending on need. Click here to apply for sponsorship

Camps and Classes

Looking for ways to introduce or keep kids interested in science? Check out our line up of in-person camps and classes. From specialized afterschool programs, seasonal camps, and little learner opportunities, MSI has something for everyone.

Upcoming classes 

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October Camp

Mon-Fri

October 2 - 6

 

9 - 3 PM

K -5th grades

$725

fishing off the beach
Afternoon Ecology

Thursdays

 

3:30 - 5 PM

Grades K - 5th

$60 per session

looking at invertebrates
Advanced Ecology

Thursdays
or
Saturdays

Times Vary

Grades 4 - 8

$300

Special Event Opportunities

Individual and private group opportunities support learning, group dynamics, team building, and of course fun,  in a beautiful setting. Check out the enormous availability MSI has on-site, off-site, and on the water with these special events. 

Popular Events

canoing
Public Outings

Saturdays

Times Vary
 

Age is event dependent

$35 - $100

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Under the Sea w/ ME

Thursdays or Saturdays

Th: 2 - 3 pm
Sa: 10:30 - 11:30 am

Ages 3 - 5

$45 - $225

corporate group puling in fish net
Staff Retreats

Monday - Saturday

2 hour voyages
 

Ages 5 and up

Starting at $1500

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