AboutOceanQuest
OceanQuest was founded and established in 1992 and became incorporated in 1993 as a 501(c)3 corporation. OceanQuest began as an educational field trip experience for students, teachers and the general public and has now expanded programming to include classroom presentations, curriculum materials, and teacher workshops.
The organization depends on grants, and donations to keep costs affordable to school groups. OceanQuest believes that field experiences are very important. A high quality learning experience such as the Discovery Cruise extends the science program beyond the walls of the school to include the resources of the community. They give the student access to the real thing and permit experience with what has been read about, seen on television or computer software.Please click the Donate Button to send a secure online donation using your Credit Card or PayPal Account. Or mail your tax-deductible donation to: OceanQuest, PO Box 1450, E. Dennis, MA 02641
Our Mission
OceanQuest - a non-profit marine education organization - recognizes the need for, and seeks to organize a program of studies promoting critical thinking skills that enable our audiences to make informed decisions toward yielding healthy sustainable ocean environments.
To fulfill its mission OceanQuest focuses on local marine environments and addresses current global change issues that influence the lifestyles of most people. Hands-on learning experiences are provided at-sea and on-land, at a level of excellence that promotes inquiry, discovery, and puzzlement for all ages. The goal is to provide a service that demonstrates the importance of preserving the sustainability of the global ocean for future generations.
Educational Programming
At-sea
The OceanQuest field experience is based in Woods Hole, Massachusetts and takes place aboard a fully equipped and Coast Guard certified vessel. The program focuses on basic oceanography where passengers use actual research equipment and techniques. Current information is introduced concerning the chemical, physical, meteorological and biological oceanography of marine ecosystems and changes in these ecosystems that are natural and human induced. Teachers and group leaders are encouraged to request specific tasks for their group before they arrive. During the spring and fall cruises run on a flexible schedule. A regular cruise schedule is implemented during the summer months to accommodate the general public.On Land
OceanQuest has developed a variety of curriculum materials. During the spring and fall groups may reserve a land program for an additional cost.Vessel Operations
The vessel may be used for private charters, organization functions and scientific research during times outside the regular schedule. These uses provide a means to supplement income from the Discovery Cruises and provide increased service to the community. The supplemental income helps OceanQuest keep down costs to local school groups.Business Location
The at-sea components - Discovery Cruises and private charters - are located in Woods Hole, Cape Cod, MA. The dock is centrally located on the main street within the village of Woods Hole.OceanQuest opens its programming to the general public during the summer months.
The National Marine
Fisheries Aquarium, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's Exhibit
Center and the Marine Biological Laboratory are within easy walking
distance of OceanQuest. This further enhances the
location of the business.
