Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration

Unlike many national parks, marine sanctuaries are off-limits, and diving in those areas is discouraged and, many times, prohibited. That's what makes Exploring Our National Marine Sanctuaries so special – it brings these treasured sanctuaries to you!

Learn about historic shipwrecks of the Great Lakes in Thunder Bay. See exclusive video footage from Dr. Ballard's recent exploration to the Flower Garden Banks in the Gulf of Mexico. And watch a live, high-definition video link to Monterey Bay in California, where California Sea Lions, harbor seals and sea otters frolic and forage in their natural habitat. The link makes use of four cameras and a live audio feed. It’s all on view – no security clearance needed!