MarineLab Family Day

Come and explore Florida Bay with us! And, because mangroves and Florida Bay go hand in hand, we wouldn't miss this opportunity to teach you a little bit about these unique trees and the animals that call them home. How exactly do they deal with the saltwater? Are red mangroves really red? Is it true that they give live birth!? Get the answers to these questions and more!

For this event, participants will hop on our boats and enjoy a relaxing boat ride in Florida Bay. On our way out to the snorkel site, we’ll make some stops along the way to talk about our unique seagrass and mangrove habitats. Then, once everyone is a mangrove and seagrass expert, participants will hop in the water and snorkel with our marine biologist instructors. We’ll point out all of the good stuff and collect some invertebrates!

Please do not arrive before 12:45!  

1 PM: Arrive and check in

1:15 - 2 PM: MarineLab instructors will review proper use of snorkel equipment as well as safety signs and signals.  All participants will be outfitted with snorkel gear - we have plenty for all but feel free to bring your own, if you prefer.  All participants will also need to take a simple swim test.

2 PM - 5 PM: Board a MarineLab vessel, enjoy an educational cruise through Florida Bay, and hop in the water with a marine biologist guide to explore the mangrove habitat.

**sequence of events and snorkel site locations subject to change due to weather conditions

Admission: There will be a $10 REFUNDABLE deposit for all participants. 

**if the refundable deposit poses a financial burden for your family, please contact our Outreach Coordinator directly to register

Please consider that these are high demand events with waitlists - if you sign up and are no longer able to attend, please reach out to Anne at outreach@marinelab.org in advance so that another family can fill your spot!

Waiver Required! Find the waiver here (If you have already attended a family day in 2025, there is no need to fill out another waiver.)

Age: Limited to ages 7 and up. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

Snorkel gear: Don’t have your own? We’ve got you covered! We are happy to provide snorkel gear in any size you need.

What to bring: A swimsuit, towel, water bottle, sunscreen, and snorkel gear (if you have it!)

For more information, email our Outreach Coordinator, Anne den Otter, at anne.denotter@marinelab.org