Mystic Aquarium

Ages 13 to 16

Does your teen love marine biology? Mystic Aquarium and New England Science & Sailing (NESS) have combined resources to offer teens an exciting program that lets them experience the best aspects of a career in marine biology. Participants start their day at NESS exploring Little Narragansett Bay by foot, kayak, snorkel and boat where they perform field research before heading over to Mystic Aquarium to engage in hands-on programming. The program is designed to give teens a real taste of what it's like to be a marine biologist. Morning drop-off is at NESS in Stonington. All students take the SEAT bus with an instructor to Mystic Aquarium. Afternoon pick-up is at Mystic Aquarium.

Schedule: July 29 - August 2; 8:30am-4:00pm

Cost: Members: $420; Non-members: $450

Ages 11-15

This unique summer program is the best of both worlds - exploring the diverse ocean ecosystems, their inhabitants AND riding the waves! Campers start their day at New England Science & Sailing (NESS) to take a boat trip to a local surf spot and learn the basics of surfing. Over the week, campers will become confident in ocean safety knowledge and learn to predict, select and judge waves to help improve their board riding ability. Campers then take the SEAT bus with an instructor to Mystic Aquarium to learn about the natural surfers of the ocean. Afternoon pick-up is at Mystic Aquarium.

Schedule: June 24-28; 8:30am-4:00pm

Cost: Members $500; Non-members $550

Ages 13 to15

Do you love marine biology?  Get the fun, hands-on experience you crave by doing activities marine biologists conduct every day.  Participants tour behind the scenes, interact with aquarium staff and, weather permitting, enjoy some time on the water.  As an added bonus, campers spend the night at the aquarium sleeping among the exhibits.

Schedule: July 22-25, August 5-8

Monday and Tuesday 8:30am-4:00pm, Wednesday 8:30am - Thursday 8:30am (overnight)

Cost: Members: $350; Non-members: $400

Grant funded camp

Students Entering Grades 9-12

This summer, Mystic Aquarium is pleased to offer an exciting opportunity for teenagers who have exhibited a strong interest in the marine sciences but may not have the means to participate in local opportunities. Through the generous support of Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, 8 local high school students will be able to participate in the new Researcher-for-a-Week Camp and Summer Program at Mystic Aquarium during Summer 2013. This unique program is designed to engage students in an immersive experience with hands-on laboratory explorations and experiments, behind-the-scenes tours, and access to marine science experts.  This unique experience will offer students an inside look at marine science and the many career opportunities available through a week long camp followed by a summer project and fall teen summit all at no cost to the student.

Please contact  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to obtain an application for this experience.

Camp Dates: August 5-August 8

Schedule:  Monday and Tuesday 8:30am-4:00pm, Wednesday 8:30am - Thursday 8:30am (overnight)