The institute, which runs 40 to 50 sea labs each month during the school year, has refined each cruise so efficiently that, during the busiest months of April and May, four different labs can be held on the same boat, on the same day. "And we seldom have to cancel one," Moylan says. "We probably have to cancel only about two or three a year because of bad weather. Southern California is perfect for this."
During the school year, about 13,000 students from fourth grade through college participate in the labs, Moylan says. During the summer another 500 adults take part in cruises. Although most participants live in Orange County, students frequently come from other parts of the state as well as Arizona, Nevada and Utah.
"People from Australia, New Zealand and Japan have come over to study the program--to observe and to put together a program like it of their own," Moylan says.
Moylan sees the labs as an opportunity to educate a large number of people about the importance of one of the earth's most valuable resources--the ocean. "I'm hoping they'll get a first-hand appreciation of the ocean and how vital it is to us. That they'll learn to help protect the ocean. That they'll learn that we are all tied in this together."
Paddle America--As a part of national Paddle America Week, you can try a variety of paddle craft, including sea-touring kayaks, white-water kayaks, canoes and wave skis during free programs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
The event, sponsored by Southwind Sports Resource of Tustin, will be held on the beach at Newport Aquatic Center, 1 Whitecliffs Drive in Newport Beach.
Novice paddlers will have an opportunity to discuss paddling with Southwind instructors and guides as they try as many of the paddle craft as they like. For information, call (714) 730-4820.
Big Boats--For the sailor with small-boat experience who wants to move up to big boats, Orange Coast College will offer a sailing course aboard its 47-foot ocean racer Saudade.
The five-day cruise will be June 26 through 30. For information, call (714) 432-5880.
Varnish Seminar--Suzanne Davis of Pristine Varnish will present a seminar on boat varnishing from 8 a.m. to noon July 8 at the Dana Point Harbor Youth and Group Facility, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. For information call (714) 661-7122.
