Schedule your trip aboard the Karma. Call (979/863-2940) or email Nancy Vasek at to schedule a cruise. You can check the calendar to determine open dates.
Complete the enrollment/scholarship form. Scholarships are provided for groups needing financial assistance.Eligible groups include public schools, private schools, home schooling associations, and organized youth groups (i.e. Boys and Girls Clubs, Scouts, 4-H, etc.)
Texas A&M University P.O. Box 18 Matagorda, Texas 77457
Reservations are not confirmed until both the enrollment form and the deposit are received. Scholarship forms should be received at least 45 working days before the cruise.
Review the trip information packet mailed to you after we confirm your reservation. This packet confirms your reservation and helps your group prepare logistically and academically for your cruise aboard the Karma.
Obtain permission to participate in the activities of the Floating Classroom Program from each child's parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Permission should reflect the understanding that even though risks are identified and managed to the highest degree possible, unpredictable situations may be encountered on, in or near the water which may pose a danger to participants. The Floating Classroom Program assumes that permission has been received by the group making the reservation, and therefore, does not require parent/guardian permission.
Contact Dr. Russ Miget at (361/825-3460) or if your group would like to bring home live specimens for a classroom aquarium.
Contact the Floating Classroom Program office at (979/863-2940) if your group wants to focus on a specific topic.
Group Leader 15-Days-Before-Cruise Checklist
Send billing information for purchase orders to the Floating Classroom Program:
William Younger Coordinator of the Floating Classroom Program Extension Marine Education Specialist P.O. Box 18 Matagorda, Texas 77457
Provide written notice if your group wants to cancel a cruise and receive a full refund. The $300 deposit will be retained to cover planning and preparation expenses if written notice is not received by the Floating Classroom Program at least 15 working days before the cruise.
Call (979/863-2940) if your group cannot arrive before 9 AM or if your group must leave before 2:30 PM or after 2:45 PM. Unless prior arrangements are made, the activities will begin at 9 AM and conclude between 2:30 and 3:00 PM.
Provide the Floating Classroom Program with a mobile number where you can be reached during travel time. Occasionally the Floating Classroom Program will need to reach the group leader while they are en route to Matagorda.
Group Leader Day-of-Cruise Checklist
Complete list of all participants (youth and adults). The US Coast Guard and the Texas A&M University System require a list of all participants upon arrival.
Teachers and chaperones are expected to diligently supervise the behavior of participating minors/students at all times. A student to teacher ratio of 12:1 is strongly recommended.
Emergency Phone Number
If your group needs to contact the Floating Classroom Program staff on the morning of the cruise, please call 979/240-4872.
What to Bring
Year Round
Dress for the outdoors
Change of clothes (if participants are involved in beach or wetland field studies)
Cap or hat
Sun screen
Rain poncho or slicker
Soft-soled/no-skid shoes or boots
Insect repellant
Lunch and snacks
Drinks other than water
Spill-proof container for bringing home live specimens
Fall and Spring
Jacket
Winter
Coat
Optional
Camera (disposable)
Binoculars
Sunglasses
Within 120 Days After the Cruise
Write a letter describing your Floating Classroom Program experience.
If the group receives a scholarship, the group leader must submit a letter to the Floating Classroom Program within 120 days after the cruise. This letter should describe the academic and group benefits gained from the Floating Classroom Program experience. Future applications by the group will not be considered unless all required follow-up materials (benefits letter, teacher/leader exit survey, adn post-tests) have been received.
