Camp Registration & FAQs

"The boys talked about last year's camp
until the day they returned this year.
They absolutely love it."
Fred S.

Camp FAQs

What's a typical day of camp like?

Unless otherwise posted, camp runs 9:00-1:00 pm, and some weeks may have an option for early drop-off. Every day of camp is full of different activities as we focus on diverse themes which explore the ocean in fun ways. Camp starts off with open free-time in our workshop room, followed by the day's set activities, which usually include touching objects and artifacts from the collection, playing active tag games, creative art-making, and highly hands-on exploration stations. We typically break into small groups for set station activities that children rotate through. We have a snack break (which we'll happily supply - often juice and a pretzel party mix) as well as a lunch break (bring lunch and a water bottle with you). Camp ends as kids complete an art activity to take home.

Who are the camp instructors?

Camp is lead by our Education Department's seasoned educators. All of our instructors are either state-certified to teach or are pursuing certification (read about us on the About Us page), We normally have an adult-child ratio of 1:7 or better; young camp assistants, who are volunteers, are often present, especially when we have a large group signed up.

We're thinking of signing up for a membership - can we do that at the same time we sign up for camp?

Yes - you can purchase a membership online, then use it to get the special Members-Only pricing. More information about membership levels and benefits can be found on our Membership page.

How does the sibling discount work?

We currently offer a sibling discount as a thank you to our wonderful museum members! We happily discount 10% off for the second (and third!) sibling for members. The first child attends at regular price; the second child, attending for an equal number of days, may attend for 10% off. We're so happy if you visit with a cousin or friend, but sibling discounts can only be used for siblings. Thanks for understanding! There is no sibling discount off the Crew Leader price (don't worry, you're getting a good deal!)

What is a Crew Leader? What is a CIT?

We welcome older participants who still want to be part of the fun, but can be trusted with taking on a leadership role:

Crew Leaders are normally entering 4-5th grades who come to camp to both have fun and assist our instructors in camp sessions aimed for younger children. Leaders take a leadership role during the learning games we play, help us pass out supplies during activities, and help keep camp moving smoothly. They partake in all the activities and crafts. The cost for a Crew Leader to attend camp is discounted for members and non-members.
CITs are entering grades 9+. They gain valuable experience and volunteer hours. Like their names imply, they are Counselors in Training! They assist our instructors with keeping activities running smoothly. While we encourage CITs to of course have fun, we expect them to behave professionally, responsibly, and courteously at all times. There is no cost for a CIT to attend camp. At least 5 days of service (1 week) are required for the summer season. Advance registration is required for CITS and must be approved by the museum in advance.
See a Job Description for CITS.

What is your CANCELLATION policy?

Camp Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations

There are no refunds for camp cancellations.
There are no refunds or makeups for illnesses or absences.
There are no refunds given for participants dismissed for improper behavior which includes, but is not limited to, persistent rudeness to or bullying of others, repeated failure to obey requests made by staff, and the deliberate misuse or destruction of supplies/materials used in activities.

Transfers

Transfer requests (including gifted transfers to another child's name) are accepted up until 30 days from the start of the camp week you wish to transfer out of, and is subject to availability. There is a $25 charge per camper, per weekly session.

If the museum cancels camp activities:

Refunds will not be issued for activities cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control (i.e. weather, power outages).
If the museum cancels a program for any other reason, including low enrollment, registrants may transfer to another program of equal or lesser value, subject to availability, or receive a full refund of the program registration fee. Please allow a minimum of three weeks for refund processing.

Membership fees

Membership fees are not refundable. If you are unhappy with your membership, please contact our Director here.

Is camp ever cancelled?

If the museum cancels camp activities:

Refunds will not be issued for activities cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control (i.e. weather, power outages).
If the museum cancels a program for any other reason, including low enrollment, registrants may transfer to another program of equal or lesser value, subject to availability, or receive a full refund of the program registration fee. Please allow a minimum of three weeks for refund processing.

WHAT IS PRE-CAMP PLAY?

Need an earlier drop off time? For your convenience we have added a NEW 8:30am drop-off for $10. Campers will get this extra half hour to socialize with the counselors and explore the museum before the camp day begins. Pre-registration is required and all campers must still be signed in at the front desk.

How Much is Camp?

We offer special Early-Bird discounts for all camps if you register 30 days prior to the starting date:

Early-Bird Pricing:
Member campers: $200/week
Member 2nd sibling: $180/week (this option is only for members!)
Non-Member campers: $250/week
Crew Leaders (gr. 4-5): $180/week

Regular Pricing:
Member campers: $250
Member 2nd sibling: $230
Non-Member campers: $300
Crew Leaders (gr. 4-5): $230/week

Do you offer financial assistance?

Thanks to support generous private donations to our Camp Scholarship Fund, we do! Applications are based on financial need and are accepted year-round here.

What if I still have questions?

If you have questions about what camp is like, give our educators a call at 631-367-3418 ext. 16 or 11 from 10am-5pm (though please note that all signups are online).
If you have questions about your registration or payment, please contact our Business Manager, Katie Kelly at 631-367-3418 x10 from 10-5 pm.