Adventure with us at EMA!

We aim to make all of our field trips a new and interesting adventure for kids and chaperones alike. All of our topics include hands on activities with the aim to make learning about the ocean fun and informative!

Our on-sight field trips can accommodate the groups of all sizes whether it’s 5 or 100!

Each of our field tropics have a range of activities ranging from beach walks to aquarium interactions to fishing! See below for our field trip options and how to book.

Field Trip Duration: 2 Hours

Field Trip Cost: Students: $15

Teachers: FREE

Chaperones: $7

We do have a minimum field trip cost of $225 for groups of 15 or less.

How do I book a Field Trip?

1. Choose a Topic

2. Choose a PAckage

3. Complete & Submit the Form Below

Topics

  • Shark Discovery

    EMA Shark Discovery is a fun, exciting way to introduce your group to the world of sharks! We will explore the unique and exciting life of these amazing animals through interactive adventures. Throughout the field trip, we will discuss sharks' special adaptations and compare them with bony fish!

  • Marsh Explorers

    The marsh is an integral part of the local ecosystem and is the most biodiverse area we can access. This experience includes an exploration of how unique our marsh can be!

  • Herpetology 101

    Herpetology is the study of reptiles! This experience does a deep dive into the world of reptiles. This includes discussing native and non-native species, their behavior, and characteristics.

  • Ecosystems & Behaviors

    Are your students learning about ecosystems or animal behaviors? This is the field trip for you! We will learn about animals in various environments and the importance of food chains in those environments.

  • Fossils

    Join us on an exciting journey through prehistoric times as we explore the fascinating world of fossils! We will discuss the process of fossilization, examine fossils, and learn about real life living fossils (horseshoe crabs!).

  • Sea Turtle Discovery

    EMA Sea Turtle Discovery looks at our marine reptile friends that nest right here on Topsail Island! This is a turtley awesome topic that allows students to dive into the world of reptiles and sea turtle habits.

  • Sunlight Zone Package

    Best for groups of 15-30

    This package includes the following stations:

    Interactive presentation on chosen topic

    Beach exploration*

    Dissection

    *Fishing, or beach & pier walk depending on if your group can get wet

  • Twilight Zone Package

    Best for groups of 15-30

    This package includes the following stations:

    Interactive presentation on chosen topic

    Beach Exploration*

    Aquarium Tour

    *Fishing, or beach & pier walk depending on if your group can get wet*

  • Midnight Zone Package

    Best for groups of 30-60

    This package includes the following stations:

    Interactive presentation on chosen topic

    Beach Exploration*

    Dissection

    Aquarium Tour

    *Fishing, or beach & pier walk depending on if your group can get wet*

  • Abyssal Zone Package

    Best for groups of 60+

    We can tailor your package to fit your standards!

    We will contact you to discuss the stations available for our larger groups

  • Marsh Exploration Package

    Best for all groups!

    With this package, your group will meet us at Soundside Park in Surf City.

    This package includes the following stations:

    Interactive presentation on chosen topic

    Marsh Exploration*

    Dissection

    *Participants will get wet fishing, or can explore the foot bridges of the marsh

Field trip + In-Class visit form

all of our field trips can be customized to cater directly to your class.

Send us a brief e-mail below and we will contact you with our field trip guide that has all the necessary info you will need to have the best field trip your class has ever had. 

 
 

Give Your Students the Opportunity to Explore the Outdoors!

The North Carolina Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission is offering GO Grants for North Carolina K–12 schools during the 2026–2027 school year!

These grants provide funding for eligible outdoor educational field trips, giving students the opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences outside of the classroom.

Want your students to experience a field trip with Ecological Marine Adventures?

EMA can apply for the grant on behalf of your school, class, or grade level. If you're interested in having your students participate in an EMA field trip through GO Grant funding, complete the form below. Our team will review your information and work with your school to determine if your field trip is a good fit for the grant.

Fill out the form below to get started!

Filling out this form does not guarantee the grant will be awarded. NCYOEC is soley responsible for rewarding grants, not EMA.

Grant Request Form