Frequently Asked Questions About REEF Ocean Explorers Expeditions
About the Expedition | Diving and Snorkeling questions | Next Steps |
About the Expedition
What is an average day like?
After a hearty breakfast and a layer of sunscreen, Explorers are ready to explore the Florida Keys led by marine science experts. The day consist of experiments, labs, games, lunch and activities and field expeditions. After dinner, Explorers will have downtime at lodging location.
What is the length of time for an Expedition?
Expeditions can be 1- 10 days, but our typical Expeditions are 3-5 days. You can pick the length of days that works for your group.
Does my cost include lodging and meals?
Yes. During the booking process we can discuss your needs for transportation, lodgings and meals in conjunction with your group size.
Who will lead the Expeditions?
Expeditions are led by REEF education staff who are experts in marine conservation and citizen science.
What should Explorers bring?
After booking, your group will receive a packing list.
What if my Explorer has food allergiess?
You will communicate that your Group Leader/Chaperone and REEF staff will order food accordingly.
Diving and Snorkeling
Do Explorers need to be SCUBA certified to participate in an Expedition?
No! SCUBA certification is not required to schedule or participate in an Expedition program. We can offer snorkel or glass bottom boat excursions.
Do Explorers already need to be SCUBA certified to join as a diver?
If you plan to schedule an Expedition that includes diving, Explorers must be certified to dive prior to the trip. If you are a brand new diver, it is recommended that you build up your confidence in the water first before participating in citizen science diving. If you haven't been diving within twelve months, a refresher course is recommeded. REEF staff do not act as dive saftety officers.
Can the group be a mix between divers and snorkelers?
Yes.
What if participants need to rent dive or snorkel gear?
This will be included in your package price.
Do participants have to have any experience doing REEF surveys, identifying fish, or participating in citizen science to schedule an Expedition?
We welcome Explorers of all levels on all Expeditions. No previous experience or knowledge is necessary. If you’re a beginner, we will teach you everything you need to know to get started with REEF’s Citizen Science Programs.
What if our group has participated in REEF’s citizen science programs before, and is looking for a more advanced Expedition?
We customize programs and lessons based on the group’s experience and desires. If your group has participated in REEF’s programs before, we offer a variety of lessons and activities for each topic from beginner to advanced.
Do You Require Dive and/or Travel Insurance to participate in an Expedition?
REEF strongly recommends that all participants be covered by both diving insurance (DAN or similart) and travel insurance. Visit our Policies page for more information and links.
What are the payment and cancellation policies?
Please review our Ocean Explorers Policies for detailed information about the payment schedule and cancellation policy.
Next Steps
Still have questions?
If you have any questions regarding Ocean Explorers Expeditions, please contact us at explorers@REEF.org or 305-852-0030. We are happy to answer any of your questions!
I’d like to book an Expedition! How do I begin?
If you're interested in scheduling an Ocean Explorers Expedition, contact explorers@REEF.org or call 305-852-0030 to start your adventure! Once you’ve contacted us, we’ll begin scheduling your program and communicate more details with you on preparing for your program.