Oceanography of the Prince William Sound

Join us in an Alaskan adventure including a 3-day guided kayaking expedition. Explore the natural world in Alaska while you gain knowledge in physical science and marine ecology.  Based in the rustic coastal communities of Cordova and Whittier, this program will coordinate field experience, hands-on activities, and adventure with the theories and practices of physical and ecological oceanography.

Oceanography of the Prince William Sound

June 23 - July 2, 3008

Minimum Age: 15 years old

Cost: $995 plus $25 optional credit fee

Course Objectives: Explore, model, and discuss various aspects of physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. Practice sampling techniques to learn about the physical properties and biotic diversity of the surrounding marine environment. Examine the role of various organisms in ocean ecology, and will predict the observable effects of human interaction with the ocean environment, including the acquisition and management of resources and avoidance, control, and recovery from human-influenced catastrophes. Explore the connections between the ocean, weather, and climate. Execute basic kayaking skills including forward stroke, reverse stroke, draw, sweep, wet exits, and both self– and assisted rescue techniques.

Tentative Schedule:

June 23 - June 26 (in Cordova, Alaska)
basic kayaking skills including strokes,  proper exits and both self- and assisted rescues. 
topics include: origin of the ocean, Earth’s structure, physical properties of water, wind, waves, currents, tides, the importance of estuaries, element and nutrient cycling, marine productivity and trophic levels, Coriolis Effect, navigation, ocean resources, climate, and human impact
activities include: a day trip to Shephard‘s Point via kayak, exploring local geology with a trip to Child’s Glacier and the historical “Million Dollar Bridge” as well as a plankton tow

June 27 - June 29 (in Whittier, Alaska)
topics include: currents, tides, navigation, biological distribution, turbidity, productivity and biological diversity
Case Study: 1989 Exxon Valdez Oil Spill (causes, biological and sociological changes, lingering effects, resulting policy changes, and future response/prevention strategies)
activities include: sediment sample collection, biological diversity surveys, a trip to the EVOS oiled Knight Island via chartered vessel and guided kayak expedition from Blackstone Bay to Whittier’s harbor                     

June 30 - July 2 (in Cordova, Alaska)
Marine Debris Removal/Prevention Project and Ocean Education Outreach Project
kayaking and hiking

What to Expect:

Even in the summer, the Prince William Sound can deliver chilly nights and many inches of rain. Be sure to bring waterproof boots, raincoat and rain pants as well as a sleeping bag with a synthetic fill (down won't keep you warm if it gets damp). That said, on clear days in June and July the sun will shine high in the sky from 5:30 in the morning until almost 11:00 at night ~ so you'll also want sunscreen and some shades!

Prior to leaving Cordova participants will be expected to demonstrate basic water-safety and swimming skills. We will practice basic kayaking skills first in the pool, then in open water during day trips.

We will take the ferry as a group along the Alaska Marine Highway between Cordova and Whittier. Honey Charters will then take the group and equipment to Knight Island to witness the oil that still lingers there from the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill. After being dropped off in Blackstone Bay, An Alaska Sea Kayakers guide will lead the group on a 3-day paddling expedition back to Whittier. While Alaska Sea Kayakers will provide kayaks, paddles, pdf's and some dry-bags, it is recommended that you pack your items in small dry-bags of your own if possible.

Key point to remember: one way or another YOU WILL GET WET! Please pack accordingly and don't forget to bring your sense of adventure!