Great Bay EcoCruise
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Join fellow explorers on an activity-based cruise from New Castle, NH up the Piscataqua River into the Great Bay Estuary and to the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory. You are likely to get your hands wet as you learn about marine and estuarine ecosystems on this informal, educational cruise. You'll be invited to:
- Tow for plankton and marvel at its movement in a magnifying scope
- Capture water from below the surface and test its characteristics
- Observe, handle, and hear about plants and animals from unique habitats
- Watch an otter trawl deployment and learn about the organisms it retrieves
- Find out what scientists study about the Great Bay Estuary
The Great Bay Estuary adds approximately 150 miles to New Hampshire's relatively small coastline. Those 150 miles include everything from industrial, historical and military landmarks to a wildlife refuge and National Estuarine Research Reserve. There will be opportunities to learn more about these landmarks and share what you know. There is also plenty of time on-board to just enjoy the fresh air, sights and sounds of the estuary with your on-board companions as we scan for bald eagles, osprey, and harbor seals.
You will cruise aboard UNH's 50 foot research vessel, R/V Gulf Challenger, under the guidance of the enthusiastic and knowledgeable UNH Marine Docents, a NH Sea Grant Extension specialist, and the crew of the Gulf Challenger. Time aboard the boat is approximately 5 hours including about a half-hour visit to the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory.
Details, Prices & Times:
Open to members of the public on a first come, first served basis
Who: Adults & children 10 years of age and older (must be accompanied by an adult)
Cost: $40 for adults (ages 18+), and $25 for children (ages 10-17)
Departure Location: UNH Pier next to the U.S. Coast Guard Station at Fort Point in New Castle, NH (Address: 29 Wentworth Rd, New Castle, NH)
Timing:
8:00-8:30 a.m. Mandatory check-in and orientation at the dock
9:00 a.m. Departure
2:30 p.m. Return to the dock
Parking: Parking at the UNH Pier is limited, so please attempt to carpool if you are cruising with a family or large group. Parking is located in front of the entrance to Fort Constitution, along the left side of the access road to the U.S. Coast Guard Station.
Cruise leader, Julia Peterson, at Jackson Estuarine Laboratory with a cruise guest and horseshoe crab
Research Vessel Gulf Challenger
Directions to the Dock
29 Wentworth Road, New Castle, NH 03854
Important Cruise Information:
