Connect
with a Sea of Friends!
CAMPS FOR AGES 3 TO 18
Convenient online registration at flaquarium.org.
Become an Annual Pass Member and receive up to a 25% discount on AquaCamps!
Receive a discount for booking multiple camps (including sibling registrations)!
Member registration begins January 30th, 2017.
DOWNTOWN TAMPA
flaquarium.org | 813.273.4015
CONTENTS
General Information
Page 2
AquaTots
Page 3
AquaKids
Page 4
Completed Grades K-1
Page 5
to the world
outside
Hello AquaCamp Family and Friends,
Completed Grades
2nd-3rd
Page 6
Travel Camps for Grades
4th-5th
Page 7
Travel Camps for Grades
6th-8th and SCUBA
Page 8
Camps at a Glance
Page 9
How to Register
Page 9
Community Programs
Opening Eyes
Page 10
Immersive Aquarium
Programs
Page 10
Education and Camp
Sponsors
Back Cover
We are excited to invite you to join us for Florida Aquarium Summer
Camp 2017! Each year, our goal is to provide the best possible camp
experience by creating themes that focus on our natural world while
allowing opportunities for hands on learning and discovery. We have
been working hard to make this summer the best one yet!
In honor of Thom Stork, our former CEO who contributed 14 years of
service to the Aquarium and decades to the Tampa Bay community,
we dedicate the 2017 AquaCamp season in his honor to celebrate
his passion for youth, families and the marine environment. We will
proudly carry on his legacy through our youth and family programs.
Due to Thom’s passion and perseverance, this past year has been one
of growth. Our Rising Tides expansion has reached its final phase. The
7,500-square-foot MOSAIC Event Center will host and stage large
events and exhibits. We are also adding a new immersive 4-D theater!
As you may have noticed from the cover, this year’s feature animal
is the sea turtle. Florida is home to five of the seven species of sea
turtles. In fact, many sea turtles lay their eggs in the Tampa Bay region!
Sometimes, turtles in our area need extra help, and that’s where The
Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Team steps
in. Our team is one of only a few rehabilitation facilities authorized by
the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and we focus
on critical care and release back into the wild.
Check out our new camp themes and travel destinations. Each week
offers a different camp theme, early drop-off and late pick-up at no
extra cost, lunch options, and guaranteed fun! We hope you’ll join us,
and let our camps be the best part of your summer.
Sincerely,
Tristin Ware
Senior Education Manager
JOIN US FOR PARENT NIGHT
WEDNESDAY MAY 3RD, 2017
Is this your first time coming to camp? Do you have
specific questions you want answered? Then come
Wednesday May 3rd from from 6:00 – 7:00 PM for
our Parent Night in our Green Room Learning Space.
Light refreshments will be served.
Camp registrations will not be taken at this event.
• Learn how camps benefit your children
• Meet some of The Florida Aquarium
AquaCamps staff
• Review AquaCamps safety procedures
• Overview of campers’ daily itineraries
• How the Aquarium makes summer FUN
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Registration for members opens January 30, 2017 and for
all others on February 6, 2017.
To ensure you don’t miss out, register early! Go to
flaquarium.org, scroll over Education and Camps, click
Camps in the drop down menu and select Summer Camp.
We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express,
and e-checks.
If you do not have internet access, call (813) 273-4015 to
request assistance with the reservation process.
Education Reservations
AquaCamps
The Florida Aquarium
701 Channelside Drive
Tampa, FL 33602
Scan code for
convenient online
registration!
DROP OFF/PICK UP
(Extended care is included in your registration –
no extra fees!)
Entrance to sign out their camper. Please note the latest
pick up is 5:30 PM for full-day campers. After 5:30 PM, the
Aquarium reserves the right to charge $1 per minute until
the camper is signed out.
Please inform camp staff if your camper needs to be picked
up early or will be dropped off late. Contact camp staff if
the camper will be picked up by someone other than the
person noted on the sign-in sheet. The camp phone line is
813-273-4000 x4122 and only operates during camp hours.
BUDDIES
Children who have completed kindergarten through grade
3 or are 6-9 years old have the option of choosing a weekly
buddy that is in the same grade/age range. Please be
advised that classes of completed kindergarten through
grade 1 or grade 2-3 run simultaneously in different rooms.
If your child would like to be in the same class as a friend/
relative of the same grade/age, please make sure the
buddy name is listed next to the corresponding camp week
on the online reservation form. You may only choose one
buddy per week; however, the buddy does not have to be
the same for multiple weeks.
T-SHIRTS
All campers will receive one camp t-shirt, distributed on
the first day of the camp, for each camp in which they are
registered. For On Location camps, t-shirts are mandatory on
field trip days. Additional t-shirts will be available for purchase
for $15. Sizes include children: S (4-6), M (8-10), L (12-14) and
adult: S, M, and L.
WATER BOTTLES
Each travel camper will receive one water bottle on the first
day of their camp. Campers returning for multiple weeks of
camp will be asked to bring their AquaCamps water bottle.
Due to the heat, we recommend campers bring and use
their water bottle each day. Additional water bottles are
available and can be purchased for $10. On Location campers,
AquaKids and AquaTots do not receive a water bottle, but
those who purchase a lunch option will receive a reusable cup.
Early drop-off for campers in full-day camps begins at
7:30 AM. It is mandatory that each camper be signed
in by an adult each morning. Parents and guardians are
welcome to temporarily park in the circle located in
front of the Aquarium and escort their camper into the
Business Entrance. If a cruise ship is in port, please use
the Aquarium parking lot and access code provided in
the confirmation letter.
Campers must be personally signed out by an adult,
showing a valid ID, each afternoon. Parents and guardians
are welcome to temporarily park in the circle located in
front of the Aquarium and enter through the Business
1
DOWNTOWN TAMPA
HOME SCIENCE | June 12th-16th 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
It doesn’t take a lab to be a scientist. Discover experiments you can do
with items you probably have at home. Show off your new investigations
to your friends, and then repeat the adventures again and again!
ANIMAL RESCUE
June 14th 10:00-11:00 AM or 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Did you know that we have an around-the-clock veterinary
staff at the Aquarium? We want the best possible care
for our animals. Learn what it takes to care for sea turtles,
sharks, and more.
EW YUCK! | June 12th-16th 12:30-4:00 PM
Get ready to get messy! Join us for some fun as we learn about animal slime,
animals that eat poop, and things that are just plain gross. Take home some
of your icky creations to show your friends.
NEW! ANIMAL TALENT SHOW
June 21st 10:00-11:00 AM or 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
From super strength to remarkable balance, animals have
some pretty amazing abilities. Discover some secret talents
that our animals have, and show off some of your own.
Camps are taught by teachers specializing in preK
– kindergarten. One teacher and assistant will be
with every camp, with a maximum of 10 campers.
Camps include science explorations, arts and crafts,
choice-time and tours through the Aquarium. Adults
accompanying campers are encouraged to interact
and participate in all activities!
PRICING AND TIMES
Each camper must be accompanied by an adult
Wednesday 10:00-11:00 AM
Coral Commotion, Animal Rescue, Animal Talent Show,
You Otter be Kidding Me, Shark Senses, and Reef Diver
are also offered from 11:30-12:30 PM
$10 Members, $14 Non-Members
Register for two camps and receive an additional $2.00
discount on camps thereafter (3 or more).
Discount applies to campers in the same household.
NEW! CORAL COMMOTION
May 31st 10:00-11:00 AM or 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Discover why coral is one of the most important animals in
the sea! Explore the Florida reefs and the coral we house
right here at the Aquarium. Create your very own coral to
take home.
SHALLOW SEAS
June 7th 10:00-11:00 AM
Tide pools are home to sea stars, urchins, anemones, and
so much more! Take a closer look at some of these tide
pool dwellers and discover what sets these animals apart
from other sea creatures.
FLOCKING TOGETHER
June 28th 10:00-11:00 AM
Most people might not think of birds when they think of
an aquarium. The Florida Aquarium is home to many bird
species you can find right in your own backyard. Get a closer
look, and learn all about our feathered friends.
NEW! YOU OTTER BE KIDDIN’ ME
July 5th 10:00-11:00 AM or 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Otters are some of the most playful mammals around. Here
at the Aquarium, they get a lot of toys, games, and food!
Join us to live life like an otter for a day of fun.
SHARK SENSES
July 12th 10:00-11:00 AM or 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Did you know sharks have seven senses? That’s two more
than we have! Discover all the shark senses and how they
make sharks such amazing hunters.
ARTSY ANIMALS
July 19th 10:00-11:00 AM
Do you like being creative, doing crafts, or making your own
art? So do our animals! Make your own masterpiece, and
take home something special made by our animals.
REEF DIVER
July 26th 10:00-11:00 AM or 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Have you ever thought about diving with sharks? What about
sea turtles or fish from the reef? Meet our SCUBA divers, and
discover the awesome animals they swim with every day.
NEW! SEA LIFE SINGALONG
August 2nd 10:00-11:00 AM
Finish off the summer with a special song! Listen to songs found
throughout nature, from whales to birds to frogs. Explore these
sounds and more, all while creating your own tune.
NEW! FRESH FISH | June 19th-23rd 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
The wetlands are what help make Florida so unique! Learn how to identify
some freshwater fish right here in Tampa Bay. Explore the Wetlands Gallery,
and feel like you’ve traveled to the Everglades for a week of freshwater fun.
Camps are taught by teachers specializing in preK – kindergarten. One teacher
and assistant will be with every camp, with a maximum of 12 campers. Camps
include science explorations, tours through the Aquarium, arts and crafts,
choice-time and water time at Splash Pad.
NEW! SALTY SEA CREATURES | June 19th-23rd 12:30-4:00 PM
The ocean covers most of our planet. Discover all sorts of saltwater
animals, from stingrays, to crabs, to sea turtles! Become an expert on
wildlife that relies on salty water.
PRICING AND TIMES
Morning Sessions: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
Full Week: $90 Members, $110 Non-Members
4-Day Camp: $75 Members, $95 Non-Members
Afternoon Sessions: Monday- Friday 12:30 PM-4:00 PM
Full Week: $90 Members, $110 Non-Members
4-Day Camp: $75 Members, $95 Non-Members
SHARK BUSTERS | June 26th-30th 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
There are a lot of shark myths floating around, and we need help sorting out
the truth. Find out what’s real and what’s fake during a week of shark-filled fun!
FREE EXTENDED CARE HOURS
Morning Sessions 7:30 AM -12:30 PM, Lunch from 12:00-12:30pm.
Afternoon Sessions 12:30 – 5:30 PM, PM sessions exclude a lunch
option due to time constraints See page 9 for lunch pricing.
Register for two camps and receive an additional $10.00 discount on camps
thereafter (3 or more). Discount applies to campers in the same household.
NEW! SEA MYTHS | July 10th-14th 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
From the elusive kraken to mysterious mermaids, explore some sea monsters
and the animals that inspired their story. Create your very own sea myth!
RADICAL REEFS | May 30th-June 2nd 9:00 AM-12:30 PM * 4-Day Camp*
Coral reefs are home to more than one fourth of all marine life! Learn
about these amazing ecosystems, and take a closer look at what the
Aquarium is doing to help our reefs grow.
HIGH ABOVE | July 17th -21st 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
Look up! The sky is the limit for many animals. Get up close with some
of our feathered friends that live at the Aquarium, and learn about many
other animals that rely on tree tops.
RAINFOREST ROMP | May 30th-June 2nd 12:30-4:00 PM *4-Day Camp*
Rainforests are one of the most important habitats in the world! Without
rainforests, we wouldn’t have chocolate, rubber, or peanuts! Join us to
discover all the wonder the rainforest has to offer.
DOWN BELOW | July 17th -21st 12:30-4:00 PM
Look down! Notice any animals crawling around? Florida is home to lots of
bugs, reptiles, and rodents. See how these animals walk, scurry, and slither
right under your feet
NEW! OCEAN RESCUE | June 5th-9th 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
Our oceans need your help! Through smart thinking and hands on science, we
will learn how to protect our oceans and the incredible animals that live there.
BONY BODIES | July 24th-28th 9:00 AM-12:30 PM
Ever wondered what the skeleton of a dolphin looks like? What about a sea turtle?
Explore different animal bones and how they compare to our own bony bodies!
NEW! HELPING HANDS | June 5th-9th 12:30-4:00 PM
We have an amazing veterinary staff here at the Aquarium, and there
are many other ways to help the animals! Learn what it takes to rescue a
sea turtle, look after fish, or feed a shark.
BONELESS WONDERS | July 24th -28th 12:30-4:00 PM
Did you know that there are animals that can live without bones? We have
plenty of them! From spiny urchins to squishy sea cucumbers, discover
how these animals get around with no bones.
MOVIN’ MAMMALS | June 26th-30th 12:30-4:00 PM
Whether it’s swimming, flying, crawling, or jumping, mammals always find
a way to get around. Get movin’ and explore the ways animals travel.
NEW! REAL MONSTERS | July 10th-14th 12:30-4:00 PM
The ocean depths can be home to creepy creatures! Learn all about real
life “monsters,” and explore what lives in the deepest parts of the sea.
3
DOWNTOWN TAMPA
CAN YOU DIG IT? | June 19th-23rd
Have you ever wondered how we know that megalodons, giant
sloths, and mammoths inhabited Florida before people did?
Discover what lies underneath our feet and dig up some history!
Take a trip to Mulberry, FL to dig in a real fossil site for fossils
from many animals that lived in Florida.
FOSSIL DIG | June 19th-23rd
Right underneath your feet are fossils from some of the coolest
animals that ever lived! Mammoths, dugongs, saber tooth
tigers and more can be found if you know where to look. Let’s
explore links to the past with a week of fossil exploration. Take
a trip to Plant City, FL to explore and play along with prehistoric
creatures at Dinosaur World.
SHARK BUSTERS | June 26th-30th
Boldly go into this camp to explore the exciting world of sharks.
Often misunderstood, we will learn the truth about these
amazing animals from the inside out! We will even watch how
sharks eat. Then we will travel to Lowry Park Zoo to compare
the diets of their large predators to that of our sharks.
MAD SCIENTIST | June 26th-30th
Test your skills as a mad scientist. Perform mindboggling
experiments, slime your friends, and play with your food. A
trip to the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) will let your
imagination soar!
All On Location camps are taught by experienced teachers. Camps
include science explorations, tours of the Aquarium, a live animal
encounter, a field trip, arts and crafts, and water time at Splash Pad.
PRICING AND TIMES
Hours: 9 AM–4 PM; Monday - Friday
FREE extended care: Earliest drop off is 7:30 AM. Latest pick up is 5:30 PM.
5-Day Camps: $210 Members, $260 Non-Members
4-Day Camp: $175 Members, $215 Non-Members
3-Day Camp: $125 Members, $155 Non-Members
See page 9 for lunch pricing.
Register for two camps and receive an additional $20.00 discount
on camps thereafter (3 or more). Discount applies to campers in
the same household.
COPY CATS | May 30th-June 2nd *4-Day Camp*
Windmills, airplanes and air bags all happened because animals
inspired us! Discover unique animals’ features and how those
adaptations help them survive in the wild. Be inspired, during a
trip to Busch Gardens, to copy the natural world and to invent
items for the future.
PLANET PALS | June 5th-9th
Help us rescue the planet! Learn about Florida plants and animals
and discover their importance to the world we live in, as well as
ways we can help them. Travel to Camp Bayou in Ruskin, FL to
explore the importance of sustaining natural Florida habitats.
JAW-SOME SHARKS | June 12th-16th
Myth: sharks are always hungry! Campers will dispel this common
myth about sharks while separating fact from fiction. Study sharks
from the inside out! From the smallest to the largest sharks,
campers will explore shark diversity. Watch a shark feeding and
explore what sharks eat. Travel to Lowry Park Zoo to compare our
sharks to their top predators.
FLORIDA FUN | July 5th-7th *3-Day Camp*
Board the Bay Spirit II eco-tour boat to look for wild
bottlenose dolphins! Find out how many dolphins live in
Tampa Bay, what they eat, and how they communicate. Florida
has a wide variety of habitats and animals. Look closely at
what could be living in your backyard.
BIRDS OF A FEATHER | July 10th-14th
From penguins to pelicans, spoonbills to screech owls,
investigate the amazing world of birds. Explore their prehistoric
relatives, then “fly” over to the Suncoast Youth Conservation
Center in Apollo Beach to participate in a citizen science project
while looking for native birds.
A WHALE OF A TIME | July 17th-21st
Learn about dolphins, manatees and other marine mammals
that call Florida home. Take a journey to visit the Clearwater
Marine Aquarium to see marine mammals that can be found
here in Florida.
ULTIMATE SURVIVOR | July 24th-28th
Some animals are amazing survivors, living in some of the
harshest environments on earth. Come learn how these creatures
have thrived for so long and how humans can do the same
things. We will even take a trip to Lettuce Lake Park to see how
its inhabitants survive.
BEACH TREASURES | July 31st-August 4th
Grab your flip flops, surf shorts or hula skirt and get ready
to have a beach party! Campers will hula dance, do the
limbo, create a volcano, watch stingrays eat, and travel to
Fort DeSoto Beach to build sandcastles while possibly even
meeting beach animals!
All On Location camps are taught by experienced teachers. Camps
include science explorations, tours of the Aquarium, a live animal
encounter, a field trip, arts and crafts, and water time at Splash Pad.
PRICING AND TIMES
Hours: 9 AM–4 PM; Monday - Friday
FREE extended care: Earliest drop off is 7:30 AM. Latest pick up is 5:30 PM.
5-Day Camps: $210 Members, $260 Non-Members
4-Day Camp: $175 Members, $215 Non-Members
3-Day Camp: $125 Members, $155 Non-Members
See page 9 for lunch pricing.
Register for two camps and receive an additional $20.00 discount
on camps thereafter (3 or more). Discount applies to campers in
the same household.
FISH FRENZY | May 30th-June 2nd *4-Day Camp*
It is all about fish! Take a behind the scenes look at what our fish
are fed, assist with a fish dissection, and make a Gyotaku fish
print. Travel to Busch Gardens to look at the variety of different
animals that live in and near water.
ULTIMATE HABITATS | July 5th-7th *3-Day Camp*
Board the Bay Spirit II eco-tour boat to look for wild
bottlenose dolphins! Find out how many dolphins live in
Tampa Bay, what they eat, and how they thrive in their
environment. Picture a deep sea vent or a sandy, hot desert
and everything in between. Uncover ways animals survive in
extreme habitats.
DOLPHINS, MANATEES, AND WHALES OH MY! | July 10th-14th
Learn about dolphins, manatees and other marine mammals that
call Florida home. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to see
marine mammals up close!
SWAMP STOMP | July 17th-21st
Sift for mud dwellers, make footprint plaster molds, watch
alligators being fed, and meet some special swamp critters
who will visit our camp. Travel to the South Florida Museum in
Bradenton, FL to learn more about native swamp creatures that
live in Florida.
DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME | June 5th-9th
What is the secret behind lightning? Generate electricity to find out.
Watch how high soda can shoot, and then learn to slime your friends.
Make snacks that you can’t believe you are eating. A trip to Museum
of Science and Industry (MOSI) will let your imagination soar.
SURVIVAL 101 | July 24th-28th
Learn the special skills animals have adapted to make them
expert survivalists. From bony armor, to three eyelids, discover
all the awesome adaptations animals have acquired. We will even
take a trip to Lettuce Lake Park to see how its inhabitants thrive
in their environment.
EARTH PROTECTORS | June 12th-16th
Learn why Florida’s environment is so important to the planet by
learning new techniques of reduce, reuse and recycle. Find out
what you can do to make the earth a “greener” planet, and help
animals that are in danger. Travel to Camp Bayou in Ruskin, FL to
discover the importance of sustaining natural Florida habitats.
CATCHIN’ SOME RAYS | July 31st-August 4th
Grab your flip flops, surf shorts or hula skirt and get ready
to have a beach party! Campers will hula dance, do the
limbo, create a volcano, watch stingrays eat, and travel to
Fort DeSoto Beach to build sandcastles while possibly even
meeting some beach animals!
5
DOWNTOWN TAMPA
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Cam
All travel camps are taught by experienced teachers and
counselors. Camps focus on marine science and feature a new
adventure each day. Campers should bring a water bottle,
swimsuit, sunscreen, mask, snorkel, and fins every day. A camp
t-shirt is provided each week, and one water bottle will be
provided to each camper during their first week of camp only.
Campers should be able to swim and be comfortable being
outside most of the day.
PRICING AND TIMES
Hours: 9 AM–4 PM; Monday-Friday
See page 9 for lunch pricing.
FREE extended care: Earliest drop-off is 7:30 AM. Latest pick-up
is 5:30 PM. Register for two camps and receive an additional $25
discount on camps thereafter (3 or more). Discount applies to
campers in the same household.
ISLAND TIME
June 5th- 9th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Celebrate the start of summer by traveling to some of the
great islands that Tampa Bay has to offer. We’ll snorkel off
Honeymoon Island, ferry to Shell Key, and search for sand
dollars at Fort Desoto.
FISH CAMP
June 12th-16th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Learn how to fish, or improve your fishing skills as we try the best
fishing spots around Tampa Bay! Practice freshwater fishing skills
on the Little Manatee River State Park, try your hand at fly fishing,
and take a boat out to learn saltwater angling.
JUST KEEP PADDLING
June 19th-23rd | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Come along as we paddle our way around Tampa Bay. We’ll kayak
at the Aquarium’s Center for Conservation, float on the Rainbow
River, and canoe down the Little Manatee River.
REWIND FLORIDA
June 26th- 30th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Learn about Florida’s past with mastodons and giant sloths at
Bradenton’s South Florida Museum. Go underground to explore
caves, and look for prehistoric fossils in the Peace River.
SPRING HOPPERS
July 10th-14th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Experience a new 72° spring each day as we explore Crystal
Springs Preserve, chill out at Weeki Wachee, and relax at
Rainbow River.
SWIM WITH THE FISHES
July 17th-21st | $330 Members, $395 Non-Members
Learn more about some of the fish that call the Aquarium
home by taking part in the Swim with the Fishes program in
the coral reef exhibit. Visit Point of Rocks, Fort DeSoto Park,
and shuttle to Shell Key to look for fish you may have seen at
the Aquarium.
ANIMAL 911
July 24th-28th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Go behind the scenes at the Aquarium to learn more about
how we help care for our animals every day. We’ll also check
in with a local veterinarian, learn more about marine mammal
rescues at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and visit a large scale
doctor’s office at Busch Gardens.
EXPLORING FLORIDA
July 31st- August 4th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Enjoy a last hurrah before school begins by exploring Florida
with us. Come along as we cross items off our bucket list
such as climbing trees, visiting a beach, searching for sharks’
teeth and experiencing a high ropes course.
l
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Tra ps
Cam
All travel camps are taught by experienced teachers and counselors.
Camps focus on marine science and feature a new adventure each
day. Campers should bring a water bottle, swimsuit, sunscreen, mask,
snorkel, and fins every day. A camp t-shirt is provided each week, and
one water bottle is provided to each camper during their first week
of camp only. Campers should be able to swim and be comfortable
being outside most of the day.
PRICING AND TIMES:
Hours: 9 AM–4 PM; Monday-Friday
FREE extended care: Earliest drop-off is 7:30 AM. Latest pick-up is 5:30
PM. Register for two camps and receive an additional $25 discount on
camps thereafter (3 or more), except for SCUBA (which is not included
in the multiple-camp discount program). Discount applies to campers
in the same household.
FISH CAMP
June 5th-9th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Start your summer by spending time on the water learning how to
fish, or improving your skills! Cast your lure in freshwater rivers as
well as the Gulf of Mexico. Join us as we venture to Little Manatee
River State Park, try your hand at fly fishing, and take a boat out to
learn saltwater angling.
BOATING 101
June 12th-16th | $330 Members, $395 Non-Members
Test your sea legs as we push back from the dock to explore different types
of boats. We’ll kayak through mangrove tunnels, charter a sailboat, canoe
the Little Manatee River, and take a ride on the Aquarium’s Bay Spirit II.
WHAT LIES BELOW
June 19th-23rd | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Come along as we explore Florida’s rich history. Visit giant sloths and
mastodons at South Florida Museum, dig for fossils in the Peace River,
and snorkel in an ancient spring.
BOATING 102
June 26th-30th | $300 Members, $370 Non-Members
All aboard! We continue our boating adventure by taking a ride
on a speed boat, paddling new waterways, improving our sailing
abilities, and even parasailing over the Gulf of Mexico! (Boating 101
is not a prerequisite for this camp.)
SWIM WITH THE FISHES
July 10th-14th | $330 Members, $390 Non-Members
Learn more about fish that call Florida home as you visit Point of
Rocks, snorkel Shell Key, and search the seagrasses at Fort Desoto
Park. Tie it together by taking part in the Swim with the Fishes
program in our coral reef exhibit!
SPRING HOPPERS
July 17th-21st | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Spend a week relaxing in the cool water springs the area has to
offer as we learn more about where our water comes from. Float
down the Rainbow River, explore Crystal Springs Preserve, and
take a dip at Weeki Wachee.
SNAPSHOT: FLORIDA
July 24th-28th | $280 Members, $345 Non-Members
Join us as we adventure into the wild to work on getting the
perfect shot. We’ll learn a few photography basics before setting
out to Lettuce Lake Park, Largo Botanical Gardens, and even a
beach or two.
OPEN WATER SCUBA
Special age requirement: 12-15 years old
June 5-16 (2 week camp) | $760 Members, $945 Non-Members**
The SCUBA adventure begins with Swim with the Fishes* in the Aquarium’s Coral Reef. Earn Open Water certification through SCUBA classroom
and pool training provided by a certified NAUI scuba instructor from The Florida Aquarium dive operations staff. Open water certification dives
will take place over two days (weather permitting). After SCUBA certification, campers will have an opportunity to dive at the Aquarium. Campers
must pass a basic swimming test and provide their own SCUBA quality mask, snorkel, fins, booties, wetsuit, weight belt and lead weights. All other
gear and study materials are included. Waiver and study materials will be given to parents during the required SCUBA information session (date to
follow in confirmation packet). All waivers must be turned in before May 17, 2017. Campers with asthma, breathing conditions, ear tubes or other
medical conditions must provide doctor’s approval. SCUBA certification is not guaranteed. Only those who successfully demonstrate skills will be
certified. Because of special arrangements, no refunds can be given after May 17, 2017 including refunds for medical conditions
ADVANCED SCUBA AND UNDERWATER ECOLOGIST SPECIALTY
Special age requirement: 14-18 years old | July 10-21 (2 week camp) | $600 Members, $720 Non-Members
The SCUBA adventure continues with a skills refresher before heading out for nine open water dives (weather permitting) to earn Advanced and
Underwater Ecologist Specialty Certifications! Campers will explore new dive environments and gain the skills necessary to plan and execute
advanced dives in a safe manner. A certified NAUI SCUBA instructor from The Florida Aquarium dive operations staff will lead the skills refresher
and open water diving. Campers must have an Open Water SCUBA certification before June 16, 2017. Campers must pass drift diving skills,
mapping, navigation, data collection, deep diving and a limited visibility dive in order to obtain Advanced SCUBA certification. All waivers must
be turned in before June 23, 2017. Campers with asthma, breathing conditions, ear tubes or other medical conditions must provide doctor’s
approval. Advanced SCUBA certification is not guaranteed. Only those who successfully demonstrate skills will be certified. Because of special
arrangements no refunds can be given after June 23, 2017, including refunds for medical conditions.
7
*Swim with the Fishes is sponsored by NAUI (the National Association of Underwater Instructors)
DOWNTOWN TAMPA
AQUARIUM CAREERS Special age requirement: 14-18 years old
HOW TO REGISTER:
Wednesday, July 12th or July 26th, $65 for Members, $80 for Non-Members | 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, $7 for lunch
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work at an Aquarium? Dive into this behind the scenes teen program! Research future careers by getting a taste of
exhibit design, animal husbandry, conservation, and education. Meet Aquarium staff and, through hands-on activities, discover how The Florida Aquarium operates!
CAMPS AT A GLANCE
DATE
CAMPS AT THE AQUARIUM AquaTots
Ages 3-4 Wednesday
AquaKids
TRAVEL CAMPS
Completed K-1 Completed 2-3
Ages 5-6
Ages 6-7
Ages 8-9
Monday-FridayMonday-FridayMonday-Friday
5/30-6/2
New! Coral Commotion Radical Reefs/ *4 day campAM/PM Wed 5/31 Rainforest Romp
Copy Cats New! Ocean Rescue/ Planet Pals
Helping Hands
Home Science/
Jaw-some Sharks Ew Yuck!
Fish Frenzy Completed 4-5 Completed 6-8
SCUBA
Ages 10-11
Ages 12-14
Ages 12-15
Monday-FridayMonday-Friday Monday-Friday
Don’t Try This at Home Island Time
Fish Camp
SCUBA**
Earth Protectors Fish Camp Boating 101
6/5-6/9
6/12-6/16
Shallow Seas Wed 6/7 Animal Rescue AM/PM Wed 6/14 6/19-6/23
New! Animal Talent Show New! Fresh Fish/ Fossil Dig AM/PM Wed 6/21
Salty Sea Creatures Can You Dig It?
Just Keep Paddling What Lies Below 6/26-6/30
Flocking Together
Wed 6/28
Shark Busters/
Movin’ Mammals
Mad Scientist Shark Busters Rewind Florida
7/5-7/7
*3 day camp
New! You Otter be Kiddin’ Me
AM/PM Wed 7/5 Florida Fun Ultimate Habitats 7/10-7/14
Shark Senses
AM/PM Wed 7/12 7/17-7/21
Artsy Animals Wed 7/19 Swim with the Fishes New! Sea Myths/ Birds of a Feather Dolphins, Manatees, Spring Hoppers
Real Monsters and Whales Oh My! ADVANCED
7/24-7/28
Reef Diver AM/PM Wed 7/26 7/31-8/4
New! Sea Life Singalong Beach Treasures Catchin’ Some Rays Wed 8/2
High Above/
A Whale of a Time Down Below
Swamp Stomp Bony Bodies/
Ultimate Survivor Survival 101
Boneless Wonders LUNCH AND SNACK PROGRAM
Boating 102
• Early Annual Pass Member registration begins January 30, 2017.
Regular registration opens February 6, 2017.
• Go to flaquarium.org to register online for camp. If you do not
have Internet access, please call Reservations at (813) 2734015 to make an appointment or request assistance with the
registration process.
• Discounts: Members (Couple or higher) automatically receive
a discounted price for each camp. Once a member or nonmember signs up for 3 camps, a discount occurs on the third
camp (and thereafter), except for SCUBA. Discount also applies
to multiple campers within the same household.
AquaTots
AquaKids
On Location
3-4 year olds 5-6 year olds Completed K- 3rd
Travel Camps Travel Camps
Completed
Completed
4th – 5th
6th – 8th
Discounts $2.00 off per 10.00 off per $20.00 off per $25.00 off per
per camp after camp starting camp starting camp starting camp starting
2nd camp
on 3rd camp
on 3rd camp on 3rd camp
on 3rd camp
$25.00 off per
camp starting
on 3rd camp
(except for SCUBA
and Rescue SCUBA)
• Full payment is due at the time of registration. Checks and
credit cards are accepted.
CANCELLATION, CHANGE & REFUND POLICY:
Swim with the Fishes Spring Hoppers
Animal 911
SCUBA**
Snapshot: Florida
Exploring Florida
** No discount is available for SCUBA.
FULL-DAY OPTIONS
• To receive a full refund, less a $25 cancellation fee per camp,
cancellations must be made three weeks (21 days) before
the start date of camp.
• Cancellations made 20 days or less before the start date of
camp will not be refunded.
• All cancellations must be requested in writing or by email.
• No refunds will be given due to inclement weather.
• Registration changes can be accommodated if space
is available. A $15 fee will be assessed for all changes
excluding cancellations.
• You will receive a confirmation letter via email within two
weeks of registration. If you do not receive this, call (813)
273-4015 for more information.
ORBring Lunch & Snacks from home Snack options Light morning and afternoon snack daily. Light morning and afternoon snack daily.
Light morning and afternoon snack daily. Parent provides two snacks, one for AM
and one for PM.
• The Florida Aquarium reserves the right to separate or
combine camps
L unch options(Extended hours) A hot entrée or PBJ, plus a side item, dessert
or fruit and a beverage.
• Summer can be a time of afternoon thundershowers and all
day downpours. There may be times that plans are altered,
especially for travel camps. In these instances, The Florida
Aquarium has rainy day plans and will make decisions for
the safety of campers. We make every effort to resume our
plans as soon as possible.
AquaKids – AM Session Only
AquaCamp On Location
AquaCamp Travel Camp
A hot entree or PBJ, plus a side item,
A bag lunch including a sandwich,Parent provides camper with
dessert or fruit and beverage will
chips, cookie or fruit and beverage. lunch and beverage.
be provided.
eekly Price W
Pre-purchasedPre-purchased Pre-purchased
No added cost
(sorry, partial meal $35.00/5-day week $28.00/4-day week $35.00/5-day week $28.00/4-day week $35.00/5-day week
plan is not available) ($40 week of camp)
$21.00/3-day week ($40 week of camp)
$40 week of camp)
INCLEMENT WEATHER
AQUATOTS
Young ones can have just as much fun when summer is over!
Tots programs are offered in fall, winter, and spring, on select
Wednesday afternoons.
TRAVELING PROGRAMS
We offer various programs throughout the year both at the
Aquarium and around Tampa Bay. Many include LIVE animals!
We have programs for all ages that are perfect for schools,
clubs and other organizations!
BIRTHDAY PARTIES AT THE AQUARIUM
We offer indoor and outdoor parties. The Aquarium party
includes a cake, party decorations, paper goods, a designated
birthday space, and more.
SCOUTS
Gather your group to fulfill badge requirements at the
Aquarium. Workshops can be scheduled for Saturdays or
Sundays or during other pre-arranged times if space and
instructional staff are available.
HOMESCHOOL
The Aquarium offers monthly homeschool science classes during
the school year. Each class uses inquiry-based learning and handson experiments and activities to explore science. Classes are 45
minutes for 3-5 year olds, 60 minutes for 6-8 year olds and 90
minutes for ages 9-14. Ask about EcoField Trips!
SLEEPOVERS
Bring your scout, church, school or club to the Aquarium for an
evening filled with fun! Dissect a sea creature, go behind the
scenes, see animals up close, and more! Prices vary according
to group size.
IMMERSIVE AQUARIUM PROGRAMS
SWIM WITH THE FISHES
A 30-minute Swim with the Fishes in our coral reef tank is for
children 6 years old and above.
SHARK SWIM
This program includes a 10-Minute Swim with the Fishes in our
coral reef tank, followed by a 20-minute guided swim in our
shark habitat! Shark Swim is for guests 9 years old and above.
You do NOT have to be SCUBA certified.
DIVE WITH THE SHARKS
Dive with the Sharks provides a unique opportunity for
certified SCUBA divers, age 15 and older, to come face-to-face
with live sharks!
WILD DOLPHIN CRUISE
A 75-minute journey on the bay aboard the Bay Spirit II allows
guests to encounter awesome animals that thrive in Tampa’s
local waters. The only requirement is a sense of adventure. A
good pair of binoculars is optional!
• Inclement weather is weather that is severe enough to stop
us from doing our regularly scheduled program in order
to provide safe experiences. Hurricanes and hurricane
preparations are also considered inclement weather.
• Since The Florida Aquarium does not have control over
inclement weather we WILL NOT GIVE REFUNDS DUE TO
INCLEMENT WEATHER.
For pricing, information or registering, call our Reservations
office at (813) 273-4015 or go to our website at flaquarium.org
THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR CAMPS
When school is out, camp is in! Check out our day camps offered
on holidays and teacher work days.
9
DOWNTOWN TAMPA
EDUCATION SPONSORS
AND PARTNERS
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Macy’s Foundation
Bloomin’ Brands
Martz First Class Coach
Brown & Brown
JPMorgan Chase Foundation
Carol J and Barney Barnett Foundation
NOAA
Coastal America
PNC Bank
DEX Family Foundation
Publix Supermarkets Charities
DEX Imaging Inc.
Eleanor M. Beyer Foundation
State of Florida, Department of State,
Division of Cultural Affairs and the
Florida Arts Council
Environmental Protection Agency
T. Rowe Price
Environmental Protection Agency of
Hillsborough County
Tampa Bay Estuary Program
The Fields Galley Private Foundation
Florida Blue
Gulf of Mexico Alliance
Hillsborough County School District
Institute of Museum and
Library Services
The Ocean Project
USAA Foundation
Verizon Foundation
Wells Fargo
Westshore Pizza
Ye Mystic Krewe of the Nautilus
Kiwanis Club of Downtown Tampa
MISSION STATEMENT
To entertain, educate and inspire stewardship about our natural environment.
The Florida Aquarium offers a variety of educational programs including school programs, teacher
workshops, birthday parties, sleepovers, homeschool workshops and more. Our Education Department
is growing to meet the needs of our community. For education program reservations and information
call (813) 273-4015 or 1-800-353-4741 or visit flaquarium.org.
NON-PROFIT ORG
US POSTAGE
PAID
TAMPA, FL
701 Channelside Drive
Tampa, FL 33602
PERMIT NO. 2082