What is SeaKeeper Academy?
SeaKeeper Academy is a free 10-week afterschool program for middle school students. It blends hands-on science, kayaking, maritime skills, and environmental action to help students explore Alamitos Bay and grow into stewards of the sea.
Who runs the program?
SeaKeeper Academy is co-led by Algalita and Long Beach Sea Base, two trusted local organizations working together to provide students with a unique learning experience.
- The Algalita team brings the science: water quality testing, microplastics labs, environmental storytelling, and big-picture thinking about how to protect our planet.
- The Sea Base crew brings the seamanship: kayaking instruction, navigation skills, water safety, and dockside confidence.
Together, we guide every session and support students every step of the way both in the classroom and on the water.
Who can apply?
Middle school students (grades 6–8) from Long Beach and surrounding communities are welcome to apply. No previous science or boating experience is required, just curiosity and a willingness to participate.
Where does the program take place?
All session happen at Long Beach Sea Base, located at:
5875 Appian Way, Long Beach, CA 90803
Note: While Sea Base is often used by scouting groups, SeaKeeper Academy is not a scouting program. It’s a completely separate experience created by Algalita in partnership with Sea Base. You don’t need to be a scout, just someone who’s excited to learn and explore the ocean.
What are the program dates and times?
SeaKeeper Academy runs Wednesdays from 3:30–6:30 PM
Fall 2025 Session: September 17 – November 19
Spring 2026 Session: TBD (GET 2026 UPDATES)
Is it really free?
Yes! SeaKeeper Academy is completely free for all 25 participants, thanks to generous support from local family foundations. All materials, gear, and instruction are provided.
Is transportation provided?
At this time, transportation is not provided. Students will need to be dropped off and picked up from Long Beach Sea Base. If transportation is a challenge, please let us know, we may be able to help.
What kind of things will I be doing?
You’ll learn to:
- Test water quality with real scientific tools
- Kayak in the bay with your team
- Use microscopes to examine plankton and microplastics
- Track wildlife sightings on a boat
- Tie knots, read maps, and navigate like a sailor
- Reflect through journaling and teamwork
Each week has a different theme — from safety and navigation to environmental history and careers on the water.
How many students will be selected?
Only 25 students will be selected for Spring 2026.
This helps us keep the group small, safe, and meaningful. We’re looking for students who are excited to learn, work as a team, and commit to all 10 sessions.
How are students selected?
We read every application carefully and look for students who show genuine interest, excitement, and commitment.
You don’t need perfect grades or any prior experience, we just want to know why you want to be a SeaKeeper and what you’re hoping to get out of the program.
We’re building a diverse and supportive crew, so we also try to include students from a variety of schools, backgrounds, and neighborhoods.
How do I apply?
Applications for our Fall 2025 SeaKeeper Academy are now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied!
We’re excited to announce that Spring 2026 dates are coming soon.
Students will be able to fill out a short online application when the new cycle opens.
Want to be the first to know when applications launch? Fill out our Spring 2026 Interest Form and we’ll send you updates as soon as details are confirmed.
What should I wear or bring?
We’ll send out a full packing list before the program starts, but in general:
- Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet or dirty
- Bring a reusable water bottle and sun protection
- We’ll provide all safety gear and supplies
Do I have to know how to swim?
Nope, you don’t need to know how to swim to join the program.
All students will wear life jackets anytime we’re near or on the water, and trained lifeguards and instructors will always be on site to ensure safety.
If you’re nervous about being in or near the water, we’ll support you every step of the way.
Do I need to come every week?
Yes, this program is built around trust, teamwork, and consistency.
If you’re selected, we expect you to attend all 10 sessions unless there’s an emergency or illness.
Still have questions?
Email us anytime at info@algalita.org. We’re here to help!
SeaKeeper Academy 