Teaching Conservation in 2026: Why Kids Need the Ocean More Than Ever

In an era of screens, tablets, and virtual reality, the most high-definition experience you can give a child in 2026 is still the real world.

At Dana Wharf, we believe that you protect what you love, and you love what you know. That’s why our trips aren’t just “sightseeing”—they are immersive field trips into the blue economy.

The Floating Classroom Every Dana Wharf trip is narrated by an expert marine naturalist. In 2026, we are doubling down on our commitment to education. When your child steps aboard, they aren’t just passengers; they are junior scientists.

• They learn patience: Nature runs on its own schedule.

• They learn scale: Seeing a 40-ton animal puts their own world into perspective.

• They learn stewardship: We discuss the importance of clean oceans, the dangers of plastic pollution, and how our local actions affect these global travelers.

Partnering for the Future We are proud to work alongside organizations like the Gray Whale Foundation and The Ocean Institute to ensure our impact goes beyond the harbor. By bringing families face-to-face with wild dolphins and whales, we hope to spark curiosity in the next generation of marine biologists and ocean advocates.

A Resolution for Families This year, make a resolution to trade one Saturday of cartoons for one Saturday on the water. Let’s teach our kids that the ocean isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a home to protect.

Kids Fishing Clinics & School Trips: Did you know we also offer Kids Fishing Clinics and private field trips? Check our schedule to see how your little ones can get hands-on with marine life this year.