"the mountain and the sea are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books." -john lubbock
Meet Our Team
The Salish Sea School is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, inclusion, and connectedness. We are able to grow and learn better together with a diverse team. We welcome the unique contributions that one can bring in terms of their education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran’s status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.
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We are stronger together with the collective sum of individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, innovation, self-expression, and talent which ultimately brings about a healthier planet.
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Click on the pictures below to learn more.
ADULT COURSES
"We Do Not Inherit the Earth from Our Ancestors; We Borrow It from Our Children."
Photo by Terese Drummond
Step into an extraordinary, hands-on learning adventure with The Salish Sea School. As a nonprofit marine education organization, we connect people to the diverse and fragile ecosystems of the Salish Sea through meaningful, expert-led experiences that spark curiosity and inspire stewardship.
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Through our adult programs, you'll explore topics like water quality, biodiversity, and the fascinating lives of whales and seabirds — all while deepening your connection to the waters that shape our region.
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Your participation also supports our mission. Adult program tuition helps fund student initiatives and community access programs, creating opportunities for more people to experience and care for the Salish Sea.
SALISH SEA NATURALIST COURSES
WILDLIFE AND BIRDING EXPERIENCES
Wildlife and Puffin Photography Tours
Join us for an exclusive small-group (4–6 guests), four-hour photography expedition on the Salish Sea—exploring Smith Island for Tufted Puffins or venturing more broadly in search of diverse marine wildlife in their natural habitat.​ —private charters also offered for a truly personalized experience.
ISLAND EXPERIENCES
Eagle Cliff Hike on Cypress Island
Experience sweeping views of the San Juan Islands from the top of Cypress Island! Open for only half of the year, Eagle Cliff trail is teeming with life of all kinds. Salish Sea School Naturalists will lead you through this 2.6 mile hike. Taking our time, we'll explore the plant life, animal life, and natural history of this storied place!
Geology and Intertidal on Sucia
From fossils to sea urchins and fascinating history, this small-group tour of Sucia Island State Park has it all! Located just beyond the Canadian Gulf Islands, Sucia Island is home to a variety of intertidal creatures and tide pools containing 55-million-year-old fossils.
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Blue Mind Wellness Retreats offer transformative experiences that promote physical health, nurture mental and emotional well-being, and inspire lifelong conservationists. Through ongoing community adventures, participants connect with others who share their passion for nature and a commitment to shared values.
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Whether finding calm by the water, serenity in the forest, or freedom in the wilderness, these retreats help reduce stress, boost creativity, and foster peace. Mindful practices are seamlessly integrated, empowering participants to carry these benefits into their daily lives.
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The retreats invite individuals to slow down, step away from the chaos of modern life, and discover clarity, joy, and healing in the embrace of nature and the support of a like-minded community.