Florida Guide > Places to Visit
The Marine Discovery Centre.
The Marine Discovery Centre is located at New Smyrna Beach and is dedicated to the presevation and restoration of The Indian River Lagoon Estuary. This would take you something over an hour from your resorts area villa and makes a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the parks. .
You can divide this centre into 3 distinct parts.
1. The Research Centre works with people from the scientific and education world to conserving the estuary.
The lagoon has North Americas most diverse eco system. There are more than 400 different animals and plants to see many of which are endangered species. The waters here are a mixture of fresh and salt water.
They have been working on the mangrove and oyster reefs and monitor the water quality and the health and numbers of birds.
2. Education. Here they hold various programmes for children and adults to educate them in the importance of the work. These are for adults and children and include day trips and even camps. They do a lot of valuable work with the local schools.
3. Now for the fun bit. Climb aboard the 36 seat boat and your captain will take you on a 2 hour trip. All the while he keeps up an informative commentary and can answer all your questions.
Among the birds he will point out are ospreys, pelicans and roseate spoon bills. You will not be surprised to spot a dolphin or a manatee and at the right times of year, they will be accompanied by their young (what a thrill! )
Among the fish that make these waters home are mullet, trout and red fin.
These tours cost $25 per adult, $22 for old age pensioners and $10 for children. If you are a neat 2 adult, 2 children group then buy a family ticket for $60.
If you are a bird lover, then I would encourage you to go on a sunset cruise. This is a 2 hour relaxing cruise that takes you to the Ponce De Leon Lighthouse and back.
You are entertained with live music and fed cheese and wine (soft drinks for the children) All the while the birds will be landing to spend the night.
The Sunset Cruise lasts 2 hours and costs $28 per adult, $25 per pensioner and $12 per child. What a lovely way to round off a perfect Florida day!
The Marine Discovery Centre
162 North Causeway
New Smyrna Beach
Florida
32169
Tel 386 428 4828
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