Animal Encounters at Mote are fun adventures for up to 6 participants. During this experience, you'll get a behind-the-scenes peek at what goes on before we open to the public, learn about animal care and ask Mote educators any questions you may have during your exclusive tour, then conclude your program with an animal feeding or enrichment activity. Animal Encounters are available every day except for Monday and we have three different program themes for you to choose from! Don't miss your chance to #MakeMoteMemories, register today!
When: Programs start at 8:30 a.m., see each description for days offered
Cost: $36 for members, $40 for non-members
Pre-registration is REQUIRED. A minimum of 2 participants must register, program wil not run with only one participant. Aquarium admission is NOT included in this program.
Important notes:
- Any equipment used will be thoroughly sanitized between programs.
- For programs with behind-the-scenes components, guests may bring a camera, but there are areas which you may be asked not to photograph or video record.
- Program elements are subject to change without notice due to animal needs, weather, or staff needs.
- There are no refunds for this program unless Mote cancels.
- Groups meet in front of Main Aquarium and MUST pre-register
Only available programs and dates will show. See below for program options and details.
Encounter Options
Morning Rounds
On this small group tour, a Mote Educator will guide you through the morning routine at Mote Aquarium, as our biologists prep for the day. You’ll learn about your favorite sea creatures, have all of your ocean questions answered, and possibly even catch a glimpse of our animal-care team doing their morning rounds! Finally, you will have an opportunity to feed and interact with some of Mote’s Animal Ambassadors!
We have two different Morning Rounds experiences to choose from. On Sundays and Fridays, our adventure takes place in our main aquarium building, featuring our resident sharks, stingrays and coral reef galleries. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, we will explore our Marine Mammal Center, home to our resident marine mammals, reptiles and birds. Pre-registration is REQUIRED (see button above).
- This is a walking tour and will take place both indoors and outdoors.
- Cool, comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended.
- Reusable water bottle is recommended.
- Ages 6 and up ONLY (all youth must be accompanied by a paid adult participant)
Turtle Time
Meet Mote’s resident turtles! Pay an early morning visit to the sea turtles at the Ann & Alfred E. Goldstein Marine Mammal Research & Rehabilitation Center, where you’ll learn all about sea turtles in Florida. Then head over to our classroom and spend some quality enrichment time with our education animal ambassadors, Smiley, Booger and Pearl!
This experience is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Pre-registration is REQUIRED.
- This is a walking tour and will take place both indoors and outdoors.
- Cool, comfortable clothing and footwear recommended.
- We highly recommend sun protection (sunglasses, hat, long sleeved sun shirt, sunscreen etc.).
- Reusable water bottle is recommended.
- Ages 6 and up ONLY (all youth must be accompanied by a paid adult participant)
Looking for more adventure?
Grab your friends and join us for some fresh air and fun during Family Programs at Mote like Dip Netting and Seashore SEAfari!
Cancelation Policies
Prohibited Items/Activities
The following items are not permitted in Mote Aquarium areas for the safety of our animals and guests: weapons or firearms per Florida Statutes Section 790.06(12), any hazardous items or materials, outside food and beverages (water and baby food/formula is allowed), or any other items deemed to be a safety hazard or that may be used to engage in prohibited activities. Smoking and vaping is also prohibited.
Only available programs and dates will show. Questions? Email educate@mote.org or call 941-388-4441 ext. 133.