Marine Science Field Trips

At Tampa Bay Watch, fun and meaningful marine science education is our specialty!

Dear Teachers,

At Tampa Bay Watch, exploring the estuary with local students is an integral part of our mission. Below you will find information about our current field trip opportunities. Tampa Bay Watch offers field trip programs at two locations – our headquarters in Tierra Verde at the Auer Marine Education Center and the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier. If transportation is a challenge for your group, ask us about our mobile classroom!

At both locations, you can expect to be greeted by enthusiastic educators who will provide an outstanding land or boat-based experience for your group. Here are a few helpful hints that might help you choose the Tampa Bay Watch destination that best fits your needs:

Tampa Bay Watch Headquarters

  • Field trips are based out of our private field station on beautiful Shell Key Preserve

  • Maximum capacity is 50 students

  • Shaded picnic area overlooking water provided for lunch

  • Open Monday - Friday

  • Activities unique to Tierra Verde include kayaking, seining, and virtual presentations

  • Participate in a boat-based otter trawl aboard our 32’ USCG-certified vessel to encounter various Tampa Bay species

  • Contact Katie Mastenbrook kmastenbrook@tampabaywatch.org for more information

  • Click here to learn more!

The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

  • Field trips are based out of our state of the art classroom on the St. Pete Pier

  • Maximum capacity is 45 students, split into two activity groups

  • Various outdoor seating areas available for lunch

  • Open 7 days a week

  • Activities unique to the Discovery Center include a lionfish dissection and tours of our interactive exhibit gallery and aquariums

  • Participate in an otter trawl or choose from a variety of themed boat trips aboard our 45’ USCG-certified vessel

  • Contact Zoe Caraffi tbwdceducation@tampabaywatch.org for more information

  • Click here to learn more!

We hope you will join us for fun and learning in and around the bay this year! Funding may be available for Title I Schools. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, we would be happy to assist with planning a meaningful field trip for your students.

Sincerely,

The Tampa Bay Watch Education Team