Whales & Dolphins | Six-Week Educational Course

Join us for a six-week journey into the world of North Atlantic Right Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins along Northeast Florida’s coast. Through expert presentations, film, discussion, and a guided sunset beach walk, you’ll explore the science, conservation, and stories behind some of the ocean’s most remarkable animals. Whether you’re a lifelong marine mammal enthusiast or simply curious about the incredible wildlife found along our coast, this course offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ocean in a meaningful way. RESERVE YOUR SPOT Session Dates Wednesdays: September 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, and November 4 Instructor Terran McGinnis, Founder, Wild Lessons Time 10:30 AM – Noon October 28 session meets at 5:30 PM for a sunset beach walk at Vilano Beach. Location GTM Research Reserve Visitor Center Registration Friends of GTM Members: $175 Non-Members: $225 Course Topics Week 1: North Atlantic Right Whale Learn about the North Atlantic Right Whale — one of the world’s most endangered whales — who returns each winter to our Northeast Florida waters to give birth and raise calves. Despite the challenges facing this species, this session offers a hopeful and empowering look at conservation efforts making a difference. Week 2: “Last of the Right Whales” Film Screening Experience the powerful documentary Last of the Right Whales, following the migration of North Atlantic Right Whales and the people dedicated to protecting them. The film explores the impacts of climate change, ship strikes, and fishing gear entanglements while sharing a message of hope for the future of the species. Week 3: Marineland Right Whale Project Discover the incredible work being done through the Marineland Right Whale Project and learn how researchers, conservationists, and everyday citizens are helping protect these remarkable animals. Week 4: Common Bottlenose Dolphin Explore the behavior, anatomy, hunting strategies, and social lives of our local bottlenose dolphins, along with the conservation challenges they face in Florida waters. Week 5: Sunset Dolphin Beach Walk We’ll head outdoors for a guided sunset beach walk at Vilano Beach, traveling south toward Porpoise Point. Along the way, we’ll discuss dolphin behavior and coastal ecology while enjoying one of the most scenic spots in St. Augustine. Dolphin sightings are possible, but not guaranteed. Week 6: Marineland Dolphin Adventure — Past, Present, and Future Take a look back at the fascinating history of Marineland, the world’s first oceanarium, and explore how it transformed our community’s relationship with dolphins and marine conservation from 1938 to today. REGISTER NOW