OCEAN EXPLORATION
MUMMICHOGS
Mummichogs (Chogs) is a morning class for young learners ages 6–8 designed to introduce students to fun, hands-on learning on and around the water while building confidence and comfort in the marine environment. Run in one-week sessions, the program focuses on water safety, marine science, exploration, and traditional camp activities through experiential and project-based learning. Students search for marine life, swim, participate in group projects, and gain introductory hands-on experience with boats in a safe and supportive setting. Parents are encouraged to volunteer and be part of the experience, helping create a welcoming community for our youngest sailors.
OCEAN EXPLORERS
Ocean Explorers is a one-week morning or afternoon program for students ages 7+ that combines sailing, swimming, paddleboarding, beach games, and hands-on marine biology exploration around Phinney’s Harbor. With a small group ratio of approximately 4–5 students per instructor, participants learn the fundamentals of sailing aboard 16-foot Bullseye keelboats, including rigging, launching, maneuvering, landing, crewing, communication, navigation, and on-water safety. Students travel by boat to explore new areas while learning about local marine habitats, making this an ideal class for those with little or no sailing experience who want an engaging introduction to both sailing and Cape Cod’s coastal environment without committing to a longer multi-week program.
BELLY BIOLOGY
Throughout our programs, we aim to offer educational opportunities that blend sailing skills with environmental stewardship, fostering a generation that not only navigates our waters but also understands and respects them. The morning students also specifically participate in Belly Biology, our Marine Biology and STEM class, typically offered each Wednesday. The Belly Biology curriculum includes exploration of the marine habitat around Phinney’s Harbor, field trips and visits by local experts. Examples of past and/or planned events include:
Visits by the Department of Natural Resources
teaching about types of local shellfish and responsible harvesting.
Critter identification of local marine species with BCB instructors.
Field trips with the Zephyr Education Foundation to learn about ocean science and technology.
Visits by Navy sailors from the Submarine Force Museum to learn about submarines.
The Baywatchers Program, in which our students will test the water quality weekly at Monument Beach to learn about the health of Buzzard’s Bay.