Coastal Marine Education and Research Academy
C.M.E.R.A.
Underwater Classroom
Ever wanted to ask a question about marine life you are observing while scuba diving?
Well with our new Underwater Classroom Program, YOU CAN !
The Underwater Classroom program utilizes full face masks with two way communicators so not only can the instructor give a lecture about marine life while you are underwater on an artificial reef,
you can ask questions about what you are seeing!
This one of a kind program is offered no where else in the world!
ONLY SIX STUDENTS CAN PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROGRAM PER WEEK SO SIGN UP TODAY !
How it Works
Participants will be given in pool instruction on the use of the full face mask and communicators. Two days during the week of our summer program you will go out on our research boat to a local artificial reef system to conduct a two tank dive. The days of the underwater classroom they will also receive a dive briefing and overview of the dive and the reef location. An instructor and dive master will accompany you on your dive. The instructor will give a short lecture about the reef and the marine life you can observe. After the underwater lecture you will be free to ask questions regarding all the amazing marine life you will be seeing!
Who Can Participate?
Participants of the underwater classroom will need to be enrolled for a minimum of two weeks during our summer Shark and Ray research program or the Aquarist program. You must also be basic open water scuba certified. You will be required to provide your own mask, fins and booties. The b.c , tanks, weights and full face mask will be provided for your use. Participants must attend the in pool training session and pass to be allowed to use the full face mask for their dive.
Remember only six participants will be accepted into the program per week during the summer.
Cancellation Policy and Weather
Once enrolled in the underwater classroom there are only a few scenarios that would allow the student to receive a refund:
1. CMERA cancels the underwater program that week for any reason
2. Weather does not allow completion of both days of diving. If one day of diving is completed the student would receive a 50% refund for the missed day.
3. The participant has an illness or injury that would prevent them from safely diving. Documentation is required. (this does not include seasickness once on the boat)
Program Fees and Application
Program fees for the two day Underwater Classroom (4 dives) is $500.
This includes all your equipment except for mask, fins and booties.
Deposits of $150 are required to reserve your spot in the Underwater Classroom.
Remember you must be enrolled for two weeks or more in the Shark and Ray summer program or the Aquarist program.
Deposits are non refundable three days after you have submitted your application unless the program is full or canceled by CMERA.
In that case, you would receive a full refund.