The long range vision of the Marine Discovery Center is to see a healthy Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Estuary and the ecosystem it supports preserved and enjoyed for its natural beauty, unmatched diversity of species and rich fishery for generations to come. Initiatives and activities designed to achieve this vision include providing education, research, restoration and heightened public awareness of this wondrous, fragile natural resource. In order to preserve the IRL for the enjoyment of future generations, a goal of the Marine Discovery Center is to showcase the biodiversity of this treasured natural resource and to examine, research and encourage human interaction “ON THE WATER” with the estuary.
Travel the IRL in the comfort of our 36-seat Discovery all-weather pontoon boat. Your tour guide on the 2-hour journey will be one of our knowledgeable narrators – certified Florida Master Naturalists – who enjoy sharing their extensive knowledge of the abundant marine life, which lives in and on the Indian River Lagoon. You will experience first-hand the solitude and natural beauty of this Florida treasure, while learning of our efforts to ensure that we preserve its uniqueness for generations to come. Or paddle the Indian River Lagoon with a Florida Master Naturalist and learn about the importance of caring for this “cradle of the ocean” and birthplace of 95% of Florida’s fish and crustaceans. Kayak instruction and nature interpretation are included with each tour.
If you are visiting for the summer, be sure to check out all of the neat summer camp programs the Marine Discovery Center offers! Summer camps at the Marine Discovery Center are designed for children to experience the water through their hands-on, feet-wet programs. All of their summer camp programs include island exploration, science experiements, marine-related arts and crafts, fishing, shoreline studies in our salt marsh, and a photo show of your child's week at camp! Each camp will offer a graduated experience that makes the camp unique and gives children something to look forward to each year.
