Harbor Discoveries Camps

Registration for 2012 Harbor Discoveries Camps will begin January 17, 2012, for Aquarium Members.

Non-member registration begins February 6, 2012.

Harbor Discoveries is an interactive marine and environmental science program that incorporates traditional camp activities. Programs include behind–the-scenes activities in Aquarium galleries, excursions to Boston Harbor Islands, daily field trips to North and South Shore habitats, and an overnight experience. Nature serves as our outdoor classroom as we travel to explore aquatic environments. For more information about Harbor Discoveries Camp, please see Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

General Information

Please read about the camp's background and philosophy.
The camp runs weekdays July 9 through August 24, 2012. Programs run for one or two weeks.
Campers must be entering grades 4-9 in the fall of 2012 to attend.
Cost per session: Junior Programs and Senior Programs cost $600 for Aquarium members and $650 for non-members. Advanced Programs cost $675 for members and $725 for non-members ($1350 / $1400 for special two-week sessions). See our camp pricing and payment policies for more information.
Registration for members begins January 17, 2012. General registration begins February 6, 2012. Please call Central Reservations at 617-973-5206, or you can Register Online!
Meals and snacks for most programs are provided. See what to bring and what to leave at home for more information. Advanced campers do need to bring their own lunch.
Senior and Advanced campers must meet the camp swim requirements.
The camp is located at Central Wharf. Please read our parking, drop-off and pick-up policies.
Scholarships for campers are sometimes available. You can help support the Aquarium programs through financial donations to the Aquarium.
The camp open house for registered campers is a useful orientation session.
Is your child too old to go to camp? The World of Water program may be the answer (Grades 9 and 10).
Going into 11th or 12th grade? Have you been a Harbor Discoveries Camper, or done WOW before? Then you’re eligible to apply for a Counselor in Training (CIT) position! Please call or email the Camp office (617-226-2243 / harbordiscoveries@neaq.org) to receive an application.

Camps by Age Level

Junior Programs (Entering Grades 4-5)

Camp is held Monday - Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m and from Thursday at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday. No extended hours available.

Senior Programs (Entering Grades 6-7)

Camp is held Monday - Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m and from Thursday at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday. No extended hours available.

Advanced Programs (Entering Grades 8-9)

One-week programs are comprised of a day camp with a Thursday night overnight camping trip. Camp is held Monday - Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m and from Thursday at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday. Two-week programs feature a four-night overnight trip for the second week. See individual program details for more information. No extended hours available.

"The type of activities were very different from what other camps offered including the opportunity to learn about the commercial fishing industry, as well as some hands-on science." – Jonette, Junior Camper Parent