Did you know that The Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a unique Underwater Explorers Program during the Summer (June 14th-September 1st). Kids ages 8-13 experience a surface SCUBA dive in the Great Tide Pool which is located just off the Aquarium's back deck.
This past weekend, our 10-year-old daughter had an unforgettable adventure with the Underwater Explorers Program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium—and she hasn’t stopped talking about her incredible experience!
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From the moment she slipped into her wetsuit and scuba gear, she could hardly wait to step into the Great Tide Pool and experience the magic of the underwater world. The highlight was getting up close with some amazing marine life—including a monkey-faced eel, starfish and some fascinating decorator crabs! As the small groups are taken around to the different areas of the Tide pool, they get to discover these incredible marine life creatures in their natural habitats and it was both thrilling and eye-opening for these explorers.
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The entire program lasts about 90 minutes and is capped at 12 participants per session. It starts with about 30 minutes of a dive briefing on what to expect before the Explorers suit up and get ready to enter the Great Tide Pool. All equipment is provided which includes a dry suit, warm flannels, regulator air tank and mask. About 30 minutes is spent in the water while the instructors point out sea life and underwater discoveries.
No experience is necessary since all participants are safely guided and accompanied by Aquarium Dive Staff.
The entire program was so thoughtfully run, and the staff made her feel safe, confident, and excited to explore. She came away not just with incredible memories, but with a deeper curiosity and appreciation for ocean life.
At the very end, each child receives a logbook with a photo to remember this special day. They also receive a voucher to enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate from the Cafe which was a nice added treat.
This was definetly a one of a kind experience and something we highly recommend you add to your Summer Bucket List!
Pretty sure this is just the beginning of her Underwater Adventures!
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For more information or to register for the next adventure visit https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/visit/hours-schedule/tours/underwater-explorers
