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We started the Coral Reef Classroom with a slide show. Miss Ivy from the National Marine Sanctuary showed us how to identify many fish, invertebrates such as sponges and several coral diseases that we would be able to see when we went snorkeling out on the reef.
The next day driving down to Key West, we went over the seven mile bridge. While in Key West we toured the aquarium where the touch tank was our favorite exhibit. We also toured Audubon's House and learned about the history of Key West, Audubon's art techniques and on a tour of the grounds we learned about the uses of many of the tropical plants.
We had arranged with Strike Zone Charters for three trips out onto the reef. The first one with Kelly from the National Marine Sanctuary. She helped us tow a plankton net and identify zooplankton and phytoplankton. She also snorkeled with us in two different locations pointing out all sorts of sea life. On the next day, we went snorkeling out on the deep reef. It was very clear that day and the colors were absolutely gorgeous. On the last trip on the reef, we took the deluxe package which included two snorkel destinations, salt water fishing and a fish cookout fixed by the captain and crew. These trips onto the reef were definitely the highlight of our trip.
Our last campsite was at Bahia Honda State Park. It wasn't shady but we saw some breath taking sunsets. We spent four hours picking up trash along the beach where endangered sea turtles nest. We collected a lot of trash everything from planks and boards to fishing line.
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