Do you love the ocean and exploring its marine life?
My little family and I had the pleasure of attending The Ocean Institute for their Mother's Day cruise. Located at 24200 Dana Point Drive in Dana Point, CA.
The Mother's Day cruise included mimosas, coffee/hot chocolate, desserts and fruit. We boarded the R/V Sea Explorer which is a 65 foot research vessel that has seating all around the first floor as well as on the second floor. There's an indoor cabin available for those who prefer to sit inside, as well as a restroom. Once everyone was on board we went on a 2.5 hour tour where we cruised along the headlands in search of dolphins, whales and other marine life.
During our cruise we got to see lots of dolphins swimming all around us. They were feeding so they were doing flips and putting on what seemed like a show for us.
Best place to see them from was the front of the boat, which is where we were standing.
In that area we were able to see them even when they were swimming under the boat! It was truly a magical experience for us all and my daughter even said it was a dream come true. Aren't they beautiful?
We also got to see sea lions resting on a buoy, and many different kinds of birds.
While cruising, some of the cruise marine educations told us all about the animals we saw and explained their behaviors. They were very informative and were also available to answer any questions.
The food and drinks included in this tour were part of a special Mother's Day cruise, that the tours usually don't include. However, the best part of the cruise which is the beautiful ocean and the chance to see amazing marine life is always included.
If you are interested in booking one of their tours go to https://www.ocean-institute.org/cruises then go to their cruise tab and look under the Whale and Marine life tour. These tours usually run Saturdays at 10am and 1:30pm and Sundays at 10am but tours times and availability may vary. The next one available is on May 25th and 26th but check their calendar of events for updates and additional dates.
Fees are as follows:
$35/adult (18-54)
$30/seniors (55 &up)
$30/active military (ID required)
$15/child (4-17)
In addition to these cruises, The Ocean Institute has many different classes and programs that offer in-depth marine science, Marine history, and outdoor education programs.
An awesome fact about the Ocean Institute is that when you purchase a ticket to an event, you're supporting their educational programs. Through patronage they are able to provide low cost field trips and educational experiences for students from all across Southern California.
Now that you have read how awesome this adventure is and are ready to go visit for yourself, here are some tips before you go:
1. If you get sea sick easily, take something for motion sickness before boarding. The ocean is unpredictable and there is a lot of swaying and movement
2. Wear closed toe, closed heeled shoes.
3. Bring glasses, wear sunscreen, and a hat.
4. Morning cruises can be a little cooler so wear layers
5. You can bring refillable water bottles
I highly recommend this cruise for the whole family. Theres nothing better than learning and exploring while having fun.
Will you be visiting soon?
Talk to you later
