"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.
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.
Click on the pictures below to learn more.
Marine Wildlife Academy: Five Days of Adventure on the Salish Sea!
Four days on the water. One day exploring on land. Five unforgettable days of marine science, wildlife, and adventure!
Designed for curious ocean explorers ages 11–14, Marine Wildlife Academy takes learning beyond the classroom and into the incredible marine world of the Salish Sea!
Throughout this immersive, five-day experience, campers will discover the fascinating connections between marine wildlife, healthy ecosystems, and conservation. From eelgrass meadows and forage fish to seals, seabirds, and other incredible marine creatures, every day brings new opportunities to explore, investigate, and discover what makes the Salish Sea so extraordinary.
And the best part? The Salish Sea becomes their classroom!
Campers will spend four incredible days aboard our 48-foot Koinonia, exploring the islands, waterways, and wildlife habitats of the Salish Sea, plus one full day of hands-on adventures on land!
With just 14 campers, this exclusive small-group experience offers plenty of opportunities to ask questions, participate in real-world marine science activities, connect with knowledgeable marine educators, and discover the wonders of our local waters. Our spacious vessel provides a comfortable setting for learning, wildlife observation, and making new friends.
More than just a summer camp, Marine Wildlife Academy is an opportunity to build confidence, spark a lifelong love of marine science, and discover how each of us can help protect the incredible sea we call home.
Adventure. Discovery. Science. Conservation. Let the exploration begin!
Life jackets are provided and required.
Program Highlights – Dive Into Discovery!
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Wildlife Encounters: Search for orcas, seals, sea lions, seabirds, and other incredible marine wildlife!
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Become a Marine Wildlife Expert: Learn to identify local species and recognize their unique behaviors and adaptations.
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Take Action for the Sea: Help protect marine habitats through beach cleanups and marine debris surveys.
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Hands-On Marine Science: Use hydrophones, binoculars, microscopes, and other scientific tools to investigate the marine world.
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Connect with Nature: Practice mindfulness, sharpen observation skills, and discover the wonders of the natural world.
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Every day brings something new! Each day has a unique focus, but the ocean is full of surprises, and we never know what exciting discoveries await!
Our Goal: Inspire the next generation of marine scientists, conservationists, and ocean stewards through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
Please Note: Wildlife sightings, including whales, are never guaranteed.
Camp Details
Ages: 11–14 years
Camp Hours: Monday–Friday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Departs from The Salish Sea School Discovery Center at Skyline Marina in Anacortes, WA
Tuition: $1,399 per camper
Registration & Deposit: Secure your camper's spot with an $850 registration payment, which includes a $350 non-refundable deposit. The remaining balance is due according to the camp's payment schedule.
Good to Know Before Camp
Weather & Adventures: Safety comes first! Our days on the water depend on weather and sea conditions. If boating isn't possible, the adventure continues with exciting land-based exploration on Fidalgo Island or a ferry trip to another nearby island.
What to Bring: Campers should bring their own lunch, water, and snacks each day. Meals are not provided.
Traveling from afar?
Here are some places we recommend nearby!
an unplugged experience
MWA camp provides important time away from the computer, TV, and cell phone enabling more time for learning, interacting, and 100% engagement.
"The urge to check Twitter or refresh Reddit becomes a nervous twitch that shatters uninterrupted time into shards too small to support the presence necessary for an intentional life.”
- Cal Newport, Digital Minimalism
"Every individual matters, every individual has a role to play, every individual makes a difference."
-Jane Goodall