SEA & Do at Mote SEA

These workshops invite adult learners to explore marine science through focused in-person lessons and hands-on experiences led by Mote education professionals. Sessions combine clear, engaging instruction with practical activities that deepen understanding of species identification, animal biology, and human impacts. Each class also features insights from Mote experts whose research connects directly to the day’s topic, creating an active learning environment that supports both skill building and community connection.

Art & Science of Reef Fish Ecology

January 16, 2026,⋅2:00 – 5:00pm
Discover the art and science of reef fish at Mote SEA. This new adult lifelong learning program blends a short reef ecology talk with hands-on iNaturalist training and a simple fish-printing activity. Learn how to observe, identify, and document species in our exhibits, then create your own reef-inspired print to take home. Space is limited for this small-group learning experience.

That’s A Moray: The Science of SEA-duction

February 13, 2026,⋅2:00 – 5:00pm
An adults-only workshop that explores the surprising strategies marine animals use to attract mates, reproduce, and raise young. The first hour features an engaging science lecture on ocean courtship and reproductive adaptations, followed by a hands-on session where participants create an “ocean valentine” using shells inspired by historic sailor’s valentines. The program also includes a “Love Your Ocean” component that highlights everyday conservation actions supporting healthy marine ecosystems.

Seagrass Stories: Science, Art, and Sunlight

Friday, March 20, 2026⋅2:00 – 5:00pm
Explore local seaweeds and seagrasses in a hands-on, adults-only workshop inspired by the Herbarium at Mote and Anna Atkins’ historic cyanotypes. A short talk by Mote experts introduces the diversity and importance of these marine plants, followed by a creative session where participants make their own “sunprints” using real specimens. This small-group experience blends marine botany, history, and art in a reflective, take-home activity. Space is limited.

Secrets in the Sand: Hidden Life of Beach Debris

Friday, April 17, 2026⋅2:00 – 5:00pm
Explore the hidden world of beach debris in this hands-on, adults-only workshop focused on shoreline science and environmental health. A short talk by Mote experts introduces beach conditions, microplastics, and the tiny organisms affected by debris and disturbance, followed by a lab-style activity where participants examine filtered samples up close. This small-group experience blends coastal science, research tools, and real-world context to reveal what lies beneath the beach.

PLEASE NOTE: Because this is an adult lifelong learning program, only guests 18 years and older will be allowed to participate. Admission to the Aquarium is included in this program.

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Endless Oceans

Curious about our oceans? Interested in expanding your knowledge while also expanding your network? We welcome you to explore the world of marine science through this engaging series of in-person lessons and hands-on experiences hosted by Mote education professionals. Classes will also feature Mote experts discussing their research related to that day’s topic and active learning excursions.

Learning is a lifelong endeavor. Continue your journey with Mote.

Ages: 18+
Format: In person
Dates & Times: Mondays, 2:00–5:00pm, April 2026. Registration coming soon.

Full Semester

$270 for members / $300 for non-members

Mote Certificate of Completion for Marine Science 101
Endless Oceans: Mote Lifelong Learning collectible pin

Individual Classes

$50 for members / $55 for non-members

Location: Mote Science Education Aquarium, coming April 2026.

Topics

Questions?  Email endlessoceans@mote.org or call 941-388-2904.