Pure Florida now offers marine science cruises for school groups and other organizations to provide students with hands-on learning aboard the Naples-based M/V Double Sunshine and the Fort Myers-based M/V Explorer. The cruises offer activities that encourage teamwork and critical thinking as students experience and learn about marine biology, environmental science, local history and the importance of preserving Southwest Florida’s waterways.
The 1.5 hour marine science cruises navigate local waterways and the Gulf of Mexico, showcasing the Southwest Florida ecosystem and native wildlife. Aboard the narrated cruises, children explore the Southwest Florida environment and participate in STEM-based science experiments including water testing for salinity levels, pH, nitrate, ammonia and phosphate levels. Engineering challenges are also available including “float your boat” and “submersibles” that allow students to apply scientific principles to their engineering designs and builds.
In addition, schools and groups may choose to have a Pure Florida educator visit the classroom in advance of the field trip to review the scientific method and best practices in preparation for the cruise.
Pure Florida recently hosted its inaugural marine science cruise on July 18, featuring a narrated tour, sightseeing scavenger hunt and a science show. Aboard Pure Florida’s Naples-based M/V Double Sunshine, children had the opportunity to explore the waters and enjoy a special presentation by Glen Beitmen, the “Science Guy,” on “The Wonders of Water.” During the presentation, Beitmen showed the audience how to make polymer slime and educated the children about the properties of water. The humorous performance shared information about the waters and helped children connect the information to their tour cruise experience.
“Educating children about our ecosystem is essential and it is an important part of what we do here at Pure Florida,” said Captain Harry Julian, co-founder of Pure Florida. “We are grateful for the opportunity to reach out to future generations and play a role in helping children establish an appreciation for the beautiful Southwest Florida environment.”
For pricing and more information on the science cruises or other Pure Florida experiences, call 239-793-7529 or visit www.PureFL.com.
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