Please contact education@centralcoastaquarium.com with questions or specific program needs, including Spanish programming.
Floating Labs
Tuesdays, 10AM-12PM
Program Info
Floating labs are two hour programs aboard a 55 foot sportfishing boat operated by our local partners at Patriot Sportfishing.
- Floating Labs can be scheduled Tuesdays, 10:00AM-12:00PM
- Program Cost: Single ($1,250) and Double ($2,500) Boat options.
- Boat Capacity: 30 passengers (students and chaperones).
- Minimum Age: 2nd grade
- Passengers weighing under 45lbs are required to wear a life vest. You may bring your own or use one provided by staff.
- Aquarium exploration time is included in the program fee.
- Patriot Manifest: please complete and sign one copy of the boat manifest for every boat passenger (students and chaperones). Parent signatures are not required, but all names and contact information must be included in this single document. Alternative documents will not be accepted.
Making Waves Outside of the Classroom
Join us for a two hour adventure in Avila Bay as we explore the sights and sounds of local marine life. Following an introduction to the rich cultural and natural history of the area, students become true marine scientists as they help collect and identify local organisms and study water quality at sea.
Please Note:
The safety of students, staff, and crew members is our topmost priority. Programs may be postponed due to unforeseen weather circumstances. Rescheduling options are available. In the event that a lab cannot be rescheduled, a full refund will be provided.
What to Bring:
- Patriot Manifest: please complete and sign one copy of the boat manifest for every boat passenger (students and chaperones). Parent signatures are not required, but all names and contact information must be included in this single document. Alternative documents will not be accepted.
- Close-toed shoes (no crocs or flip flops).
- Small personal bags and water are permitted on board.
- Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.)
- Warm clothing for chilly mornings.
- Motion sickness medication (~1 hour before departure), if prone to seasickness.
2025-26 Program Pricing
- Single Boat – $1,250
- Double Boat – $2,500
*Double Boat programs include two separate 120 minute boat rides to accommodate larger groups.
Scholarships
The Central Coast Aquarium strives to offer scholarship assistance for school program fees. Funds are awarded at the discretion of the Aquarium on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.
Note: Some funds are reserved for SLO County Title I students. Applicants will be asked to provide information about their school, program of interest, and a statement of need describing how the desired program will enhance student learning.