The Ocean Institute is thrilled to announce the return of the USCG Narwhal for an exciting day of free tours on April 13th, 2024. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to explore the vessel, meet its officers and crew, and participate in a range of maritime activities.
From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, guests can embark on complimentary tours at the Ocean
Institute’s Maddie James Seaside Learning Center and Historical Wharf. This event
promises an immersive experience, allowing individuals of all ages to step aboard the
USCG Narwhal and gain insights into the operations of the United States Coast Guard.
In addition to touring the USCG Narwhal, attendees will have the chance to interact with
members of the USCG Auxiliary at their booth. Local auxiliary members will be on hand to
share information about joining the organization and provide valuable boating safety
demonstrations and information.
For younger visitors, “COASTIE” the talking ship will be present to engage and entertain
kids throughout the day. This interactive experience is designed to spark curiosity about
maritime activities and the role of the Coast Guard in protecting our waterways.
“We are thrilled to welcome back the USCG Narwhal to the Ocean Institute for a day of
free tours and boating and water safety,” said Kaitlyn Davidson, Growth Marketing
Manager at the Ocean Institute. “This event offers a fantastic opportunity for the
community to learn more about the vital work of the Coast Guard and have an
opportunity to engage with their incredible crew!”
Garry Nelson from the USCG Auxiliary shared insights into what visitors can expect during
the tours of the USCG Cutter Narwhal. “The Narwhal is an active-duty warship,” Nelson
said. “The Commanding Officer and her crew will guide visitors onto the deck, where a
diesel-powered RIB can be launched in minutes.” Nelson added, “The Ocean Institute is a
gracious host to the Coast Guard Auxiliary whose mission is to support the CG. The Ocean
Institute has the only dock in Dana Point Harbor large enough to moor a ship this size. This
supportive relationship is appreciated and important.”
Don’t miss this exciting event at the Ocean Institute on April 13th, 2024. Whether you’re a
maritime enthusiast, aspiring Coast Guard member, or simply looking for a fun and
educational day out with the family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
For more information about the USCG Narwhal event and other upcoming activities at the
Ocean Institute, please visit https://oceaninstitute.org/event/uscg-narwhal-tours-2/.
About Ocean Institute:
The Ocean Institute, founded in 1977, is a community-based 501(c)(3) organization that
educates 100,000 children, teachers, parents, and visitors annually through over 60
marine science and maritime history programs. We are located on 2.4 acres in the Dana
Point Harbor; adjacent to a Marine Protected Area. The facility is an ocean education
center that offers in-depth marine science and maritime history programs.
The Institute includes state-of-the-art teaching labs, the spectacular Maddie James
Seaside Learning Center, a historic tall ship, and an oceanographic research vessel.
Immersion-based field trips range from one-hour science labs to multi-day programs at
sea. All programs are designed to maximize immersion, spark curiosity, and inspire a deep
commitment to learning.
