http://www.ocean-institute.org
The Ocean Institute is pleased participate in the City of Dana Point’s 40th annual Festival of Whales celebration (see www.festivalofwhales.org) the weekends of March 5 & 6 and 12 & 13, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day. The event celebrates the annual migration of the gray whale off Southern California’s coast; the Institute will feature fun, educational, ocean science-themed activities for kids and adults.
Visitors can explore the fascinating world of whales and learn about phenomena unique to these magnificent sea animals. Examine how whales in nature eat and communicate, see how pollution adversely affects them, learn about ongoing marine science research and create fun whale-themed crafts. Visitors can also participate in animal feedings, tide pool touch tanks and drive remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
Visitors can watch the popular Thar She Blows! living history demonstration aboard the tall ship Pilgrim each day. Speakers will be making special whale-themed presentations each day at 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $6.50 adults, $4.50 children (ages 4-12), Ocean Institute members free. For an additional charge, visitors can take a Whale’s Tale Sailing Adventure on the Institute’s tall ship Spirit of Dana Point or enjoy a Marine Mammal Cruise onboard the Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer. For schedules and costs of the cruises, please visit www.ocean-institute.org or call (949) 496-2274. The Institute also offers marine science and maritime history programs for children; see our website or call for details.
Founded in 1977, the Ocean Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean preservation through education, setting the standard for educational excellence and serving as a leading resource for universities, museums, teachers and all others seeking to increase their knowledge of the ocean. The Ocean Institute is open to the general public on weekends, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Unique maritime and ocean-themed items are available in the Chambers Gallery everyday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Institute address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. Website: www.ocean-institute.org. Phone number: (949) 496-2274.
