What you'll do

Science by the Sea provides a private boat tour for two adults per tour and begins on the Beaufort Waterfront. The 3-hour tour ventures into remote areas of the Rachel Carson Reserve not accessible by the local ferry operators. You'll observe dolphins, turtles, shorebirds, and wild horses during your transit along the shores & tidal creeks of the Reserve. I'll guide your exploration of the natural history & ecosystem as we journey through tidal flats, sandy beaches, & upland growth of maritime forests. You'll learn about the history of the Reserve's most famous residents (i.e. , horses) and observe the equine marvels feeding and interacting along the edges of tidal marsh. We'll observe birds of prey & shorebirds that feed in this pristine ecosystem and explore the vital role Rachel Carson played in their survival. Located along the Atlantic Flyway, the Reserve provides a resting & refueling point for numerous migratory birds. You'll have opportunities to capture nature with your camera or collect seashells cast ashore with the tides. Your tour ends where it begins. (Miriam is the owner/operator of Science by the Sea & has been guiding visitors through the Reserve since 1997. Her eco-tour was featured in Our State magazine as a "real-life textbook to all things maritime.") [Feel free to contact me to discuss possible tour dates/times not shown on the calendar.]

About Your Tour Guide

As a member of the Reserve's Advisory Board and my collaboration with local researchers, I am knowledgeable of the Reserve's history and ecosystem as well as the projects being conducted throughout the Reserve. As a former middle school science teacher, I have led tours through the Rachel Carson Reserve for 20+ years. I have extensive knowledge of the maritime history and coastal dynamics along the southern outer banks of North Carolina. As a certified boat captain (USCG-OUPV), I can provide a stress-free excursion allowing you to focus on the tranquility and beauty of the Reserve's unique ecosystem. As a science and nature photographer, I can assist you in finding unique compositions during your tour.

About My Organization

Science by the Sea (sciencebythesea.org) is a 501c3 organization that provides educational support to Academic & General Audiences while assisting Research Institutions with broader impacts through Education, Communication, and Outreach. (A portion of the fees collected for tours are donated to the Rachel Carson Estuarine Research Reserve's non-profit.)

Where We Will Meet

Departures are available from Downtown Beaufort's Waterfront District or from the Beaufort Hotel.

Additional Info

The Rachel Carson Reserve is one of 10 coastal reserves in North Carolina and is comprised of 4 main islands and tidal marsh totaling over 2300 acres. Your tour will allow you access to each island; Carrot, Horse, Town Marsh, and Bird Shoal and includes areas not accessible by local ferries. You'll explore the local history and the environmental contributions of the Reserve's namesake and view the historic Beaufort Waterfront from Taylor's Creek.