Dedicated to educating people about the marine world and the communities that support it.
Dedicated to educating people about the marine world and the communities that support it.
Sea Star Explorations offers programs designed to immerse participants in new cultures and environments. While we welcome a diverse group of individuals, it is important to ensure the program you select is the right fit for both you and Sea Star Explorations.
Some programs require extended time in the water, while others involve navigating cultural or language differences with patience and adaptability. In every program, we seek participants who are as eager as we are to connect with communities and live like a local.
To confirm readiness and ensure the program is a good match, we require a personal or educator recommendation. Recommendations must be submitted within 30 days of your application and can be completed online here.
Exceptions to the recommendation requirement: If you are an Acadia Institute of Oceanography student recommended by their staff, or if you are a returning Sea Star participant who was invited back, a new recommendation is not required.
If you are uncertain about your fit for a program, please contact us. The Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC) below will help guide your decision.
Be Flexible
Schedules may change, accommodations may be basic, food and surroundings may be unfamiliar, and internet or phone access may be unavailable at times.
Approach Adversity
Such as poor weather or last-minute changes—with maturity, good humor, and a positive attitude.
Be a team player
Supporting fellow participants even when working with people whose perspectives may differ from your own.
Travel Responsibly
Travel independently to and from domestic program locations. For international programs, the option to travel on the same flight as a staff member is available.
Follow Directions Carefully
Listen carefully and follow directions to manage risks and hazards.
Use Good Judgment
Exercise good judgment, especially when unsupervised, and alert others to known potential hazards.
Respect Rules & Laws
Understand program risks and expectations, comply with Sea Star staff guidance, and follow all applicable local, national, and international laws.
Speak Up Early
Advocate for yourself by notifying staff promptly of personal, safety, or health concerns.
Stay Present & Aware
Remain situationally aware, staying with the group and attentive to surroundings.
Adjust to Independence
Adjust to being away from usual sources of support (e.g., family, friends, healthcare providers).
Create a Wellness Plan
Develop a wellness plan to maintain health during the program and implement it.
Practice Daily Self-Care
Practice self-care, including hydration, nutrition, rest, hygiene, and use of prescribed medications.
Communicate Health Needs
Communicate honestly with staff about health challenges before and during the program.
Follow Medical Guidance
Seek medical advice as needed and follow treatment plans.
Prepare Physically
Prepare for the physical demands of the program, which may include swimming, snorkeling, hiking, climbing stairs, or extended walking. Appropriate gear, as listed in program materials, is required. Alternative activities may not be available.
Participate Fully
Contribute to a safe, positive learning environment by participating fully.
Stay Actively Involved
Stay engaged in activities.
Limit Distractions
Limit phone and internet use to designated free times.
Respect Cultures & Communities
Interact respectfully with unfamiliar cultures and communities.
Protect Natural Environments
Show respect for natural environments through responsible words and actions.
Address Concerns Early
Address concerns about meeting these criteria before the program begins.
Maintain Professional Conduct
Refrain from inappropriate behavior, including harassment, bullying, offensive remarks, unwanted physical contact, use of illegal substances, or any unlawful activity.
Accommodation Policy
Sea Star Explorations is committed to providing reasonable accommodations whenever possible. Accommodations are adjustments or services that enable participants with disabilities, medical conditions, or religious needs to benefit from the program. All accommodation decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Accommodations that would fundamentally alter the program or create undue hardship on Sea Star Explorations or its other participants (e.g., costly, extensive program changes, disruptive to others) cannot be provided. Examples include situations where a participant would be unable to meet essential program requirements (with or without accommodations) or where in-country conditions could create a direct threat to the participant’s health or safety.
If you wish to discuss the eligibility criteria as described, contact us at sherry@seastarexplorations. If you’re ready to join us, click the registration link below.
