On the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront
One Waterside Drive - Norfolk, VA 23510
(757) 664-1000
Request For Information

Printer Friendly Version

Nauticus is both an educational and exciting maritime-themed science and technology center that explores the naval, economic and natural power of the sea!

Nauticus is located on the downtown Norfolk waterfront within easy driving distance of Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg.

All Nauticus programs integrate Virginia's Standards of Learning (SOLs), which are designed to enhance your field trip. You can schedule one or more of these programs to meet your specific needs. These programs last approximately 30 minutes and can accommodate approximately 50 students at a time.

Pre and post-visit materials available.

These interactive classes use your students as volunteers to assist with a series of dynamic experiments! Additional programs are available. Call for more information.

How did explorers find their way to new places? Was it chance or an ancient art? We will walk through time examining ancient tools and practices and then explore and experience modern ones.

Science: K.1, K.2, K.9, 1.1, 2.1, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 5.1, 5.2, 6.1, ES.1, ES.2, ES.3, ES.11
History and Social Science: K.2, K.3, K.4, K.5, 1.4, 3.5, VS.1

Through hands-on, interactive activities, students examine the relationship and early interactions between the Powhatan Indians and the settlers, investigating cultural differences that affected the two. After students learn what mistakes the early settlers made and how this worked against them in the new world, they move forward in time and explore how the increase in population put a strain on local rivers.

History and Social Science: 2.2, 2.8, 2.12, 3.3, 3.5, VS.1, VS.3
Science: 2.5, 3.10, 4.8, 6.5

You'll use lasers to illustrate how light bends through goggles! You'll burn water balloons to display how water absorbs heat through a wetsuit! You'll even crush a Styrofoam cup to reveal how your lungs are protected by a regulator! This program will show the technology used to explore the oceans.

Science: K.1, K.2, K.4, K.5, K.6, K.8, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 1.7, 2.3, 2.5, 3.1, 3.4, 3.9, 4.2, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.6, 6.2, LS.4, LS.7, LS.10, PS.2, PS.6, PS.7, PS.8, PS.9, PS.10, ES.4, ES.11, PH.3, PH.4, PH.9, PH.11

What is the science behind an explosion? What are the forces associated with motion? Why would one form of energy be converted into light or heat? Awesome experiments investigate the science of energy, force, pressure, and combustion, as well as the technology of speed, armor and firepower associated with battleship design.

Science: K.1, K.4, 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.3, 3.1, 3.11, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 6.2, PS.2, PS.5, PS.6, PS.7, PS.8, PS.9, PS.10, PS.11, PH.3, PH.4, PH.5, PH.6, PH.7, PH.8

Learn about some historic and modern scientists and inventors and their contributions to science, technology and industry. Students will experience a variety of interactive demonstrations that will expose them to the different areas of science. In addition, your class can participate in hands-on experiments, see some real-world applications of science, and learn about careers in science.

Science: K.1, K.4, K.6, 1.1, 1.2, 1.5, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5, 2.6, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 3.5, 3.11, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.5, 4.6, 5.3, 5.4, 6.2, 6.5, 6.8, 6.9, LS.4, LS.9, LS.10, PS.2, PS.5, PS.6, PS.7, PS.9, PS.10, PS.11, ES.2, ES.13, BIO.5, BIO.7, CH.5, PH.3, PH.4, PH.6, PH.8, PH.11, PH.12

Observe the weather real-time, from an elevation of 22,000 miles. Study the various ocean currents around the world while checking out new data on recent weather and geologic events, such as the 2004 Southeast Asia tsunami. This open demonstration is truly unique as it is never the same twice! Students will cover many different fields of study, from science to geography and astronomy to social studies.

Science: K.1, K.4, K.7, K.8, K.9, K.10, 1.1, 1.4, 1.6, 1.7, 2.1, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 3.1, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.10, 3.11, 4.1, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 5.1, 5.6, 5.7, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.5, 6.6, 6.8, LS.10, PS.1, ES.1, ES.2, ES.3, ES.4, ES.7, ES.8, ES.9, ES.11, ES.12, ES.13 ES.14, PH.3, PH.5
History & Social Science: K.4, 1.4, 1.5, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6

Learn what generates an earthquake and where they happen. Talk about the difference between the Hawaiian volcanoes and Mt. St. Helens. Show the forces that create a tsunami. Components of this program also hit areas such as weather, ocean currents, and geography.

Science: K.1, K.4, 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5, 2.6, 3.1, 3.3, 3.7, 3.8, 4.1, 4.2, 4.8, 5.1, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6, 5.7, 6.1, 6.2, PS.1, PS.2, PS.5, PS.6, PS.7, PS.8, PS.10, ES.1, ES.2, ES.3, ES.5, ES.6, ES.8, CH.1, CH.5, PH.1, PH.3, PH.4, PH.5, PH.6, PH.7, PH.8, PH.9

See the weather on Earth from 22,000 miles above the surface! Fly into the eye of a hurricane and become a hurricane! This comprehensive program combines NOAA's revolutionary "Science on a Sphere" and Nauticus' interactive hurricane tracking game!

Science: K.1, K.5, K.7, K.9, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.6, 1.7, 2.1, 2.3, 2.6, 2.7, 3.1, 3.3, 3.8, 3.9, 3.11, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.6, 4.7, 5.1, 5.4, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.5, 6.6, 6.8, PS.2, PS.6, PS.7, PS.11, ES.1, ES.2, ES.3, ES.4, ES.12, ES.13

Nauticus offers free interactive workshops for pre-service and in-service teachers. These two hour workshops will provide you with the scientific content so that you will feel comfortable with the material, information on how to teach the concepts to your students, and materials to do simple hands-on experiments in the classroom. Workshops occur at Nauticus and can be presented on weekdays or weekends. Teacher re-certification points are available for many issued through ODU. To schedule call (757) 664-1003 or (800) 664-1080 ext. 41003.

We want you! Join teachers from around the community who are directly involved with the development and presentation of numerous Nauticus projects. Your evaluation will help us with the expansion of current programs and exhibits, and the creation of future activities. Email Teacher's Advisory Group at http://www.nauticus.org/edtagform.html or call (757) 664-1003 or (800) 664-1080 ext. 41003 for more information.

Did you know that certified teachers can visit Nauticus for free/ if you are thinking of bringing your class on a field trip, or if you need to preview our exhibits and programs prior to your students' visit, all you need to do is stop at our Guest Relations Desk during normal operating hours and show your teacher ID. Plus, you can receive a 10% discount on purchases in our Banana Pier Gift Shop.

Individual appointment available for teacher planning. Call (757) 664-1019.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operates an Education Resource Center on the third floor of Nauticus where formal and informal educators and the general public can access free NOAA-supported curriculum and other free NOAA educational materials such as workbooks, posters and videos. Please stop by and see what NOAA resources you can use in your home, boat or classroom.

Friday, January 26, 2008, 10 - 4 p.m.
Join The Nauticus for free resource materials, free food and lots of fun. Bring your family to enjoy the day while you get some great ideas to enhance your classroom experiences. Educators of all grades and subjects welcome! Representatives from the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Nauticus and NOAA at Nauticus will be represented. Topics such as naval history, archaeology, natural resource management, and living systems will be covered.

Please contact Jennifer at 757-664-1044 or jennifer.tabor@norfolk.gov

These structured workshops will combine interactive classroom activities with intensive experience-based learning. Program length is one hour 30 minutes. Maximum of 25 per group. Workshop price includes Nauticus admission. *Please allow for additional time to tour other building components and to see our films, if reserved.

Observe, feel and create weather! This workshop will lead students through the science behind our weather; explore meteorology, make weather instruments, and prepare for dangerous weather. $8 per person.

Science: K.1, K.7, K.8, K.9, 1.1, 1.6, 2.1, 2.6, 3.8, 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 5.1, 6.3, 6.6, 6.8

Why are they important? What do they do? What happens when they are degraded? Introduce your students to the life-sustaining role the watershed plays in their everyday lives. We build understanding and promote problem solving skills applying science and economics to real world ecological challenges. $8 per person.

Science: K.5, K.9, K.10, 1.1, 1.8, 2.5, 3.6, 3.9, 3.10, 4.1, 4.5, 4.8, 6.1, 6.5, 6.7, 6.9 ES.9, ES.11, BIO.1, BIO.5, BIO.7, BIO.9, CH.1, CH.3.
History and Social Science: 2.6, 2.9, 3.6, 3.7, VS.2, USII.5

How many senses do humans have? How many do shark have? Explore the adaptations shark have that allow them to exist in their environment. This 1.5 hour long workshop will explore the similarities and differences between sharks and humans through dissecting a model of a shark, touching a live shark, exploring shark artifacts and experiencing the physical and biological science principles of these animals. $8 per person.

Explore the science of underwater robotics, engineering and more! $8 per person.

Science: K.5, K.9, K.10, 1.1, 1.8, 2.5, 3.6, 3.9, 3.10, 4.1, 4.5, 4.8, 6.1, 6.5, 6.7, 6.9 ES.9, ES.11, BIO.1, BIO.5, BIO.7, BIO.9, CH.1, CH.3. History and Social Science: 2.6, 2.9, 3.6, 3.7, VS.2, USII.5

• computer and video interactives
• digital, hi-def films
• weather exhibits
• interactive theaters
• battleship exhibits
• Battleship Wisconsin
• traveling exhibits
• exotic aquaria
• touch tank

You can experience the wonders of science in your facility by scheduling an exciting Nauticus Outreach Program. All of our programs are hands-on, educational and fun! For more information about specific programs and fees, call (757) 664-1010 or (800) 664-1080 ext. 41010 or Request More Information.

Spend a fun, educational and interactive hour with your "early learners" during this exciting one hour educational program. Geared towards children ages two to five, each program is designed to help develop large and fine motor skills and includes storytelling, a craft activity, game and special guided tour of a Nauticus exhibit. Book TODAY & choose from the following topics: Light & Color, Roller Coasters, Weather, Sharks, Rivers, Crabs and Fossils. Call (757) 664-1021 for details.

Our new permanent exhibit explains the origins of the Norfolk Naval Base by examining the period from 1880, when the Navy began to recover from a post-civil war decline, to 1907, when President Theodore Roosevelt sent the Great White Fleet around the world as an affirmation of American naval strength.

This in-depth field trip will consist of a three-part guided boat trip exploring the Elizabeth River’s ecology, biology and history. Students will have the opportunity to perform experiments with water chemistry and biological sampling on the Victory Rover. Field trips begin at 9 a.m. $15 per person. Maximum of 100 per group. Call for more information on the related Eco-Exploration program, which does not include the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise.

Science: K.1, K.2, K.5, K.6, K.8, K.9, K.10, 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 2.1, 2.5, 2.7, 2.8, 3.1, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.8, 3.9, 3.10, 3.11, 4.1, 4.5, 5.1, 5.5, 5.6, 6.1, 6.5, 6.7, 6.9, LS.1, LS.4, LS.5, LS.7, LS.9, LS.10, LS.11, LS.12, PS.1, ES.1, ES.2, ES.9, ES.11, BIO.1, BIO.5, BIO.7, BIO.9, CH.1, CH.3.
History and Social Science: 2.6, 2.9, 3.6, 3.7, VS.2, USII.5

Explore the power of the sea during a two-hour lunch cruise down the Elizabeth River on board the Spirit of Norfolk. Students will experience an exciting SOL-based Nauticus education program, harbor narration, and buffet. $27.00 per person. Include a visit to Nauticus for $4 more per person. Call (757) 625-1463 for dates and reservations.

• We recommend a minimum of 2 1/2 hours for your field trip, 3 hours if you have an education program, 3 1/2 hours if you also plan to tour the Battleship Wisconsin.
• Nauticus is a self-guided facility. Maps and programs are provided upon check-in.
• For planning purposes, you might want to consider visiting beforehand to see what Nauticus has to offer. Teachers receive free admission for pre-visits.
• We recommend that you schedule your field trip at least two weeks in advance. Call Group Sales at (757) 664-1021 or (800) 664-1080, ext. 41021 or Request More Information.
• Nauticus recommends one chaperone for every five students. Students must be accompanied by a chaperone at all times.
• If your group would like to order box lunches from our Iron Whale Café, please specify this when you make your field trip reservation.
• Complimentary off-site parking is available for buses and commercial vans at nearby Harbor Park Stadium. Hourly parking is available in nearby city-operated garages.
• The Banana Pier Gift Shop is located on the first floor. Please allow enough time during your visit if you wish for your students to shop. Teachers and chaperones must stay with their groups. Gift bags are available with advanced notice.
• Nauticus is handicapped accessible. Wheelchairs are available on a first come, firt served basis.

Deposit
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to ensure your reservation. This deposit can be provided through a credit card when you make your reservation, or a check must be received within two weeks after you make your reservation.

Payment
Final payment must be made at the Guest Relations Desk on the day of your visit. Any refund under $50 that is owed to you can be done at check-in. Any refund over $50 will be mailed. Please allow at least two weeks for receipt of the refund.

Cancellation
Cancellations require a notice of three business days. Any cancellation must be made within 72 hours or Nauticus will bill your group 25% of the total cost.

(Rates subject to change without notice)

Includes all exhibits and giant screen movies.
Minimum of 15 people. Students are ages 4-18.
Students with an Education Program	$8
Students without an Education Program	$7
Adult chaperone with student groups	1 free per 5 students
Additional adult chaperones	$9
Additional education program	$1
Bus driver	free

• Nauticus Hours:
  • Memorial Day - Labor Day: Open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Rest of the year: Closed Mondays, Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, Noon - 5 p.m.
  • Mondays are available with a minimum number of people.

• Battleship Wisconsin Fall/Winter Hours:
  • Closed Monday
  • Tuesday Through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, Noon - 5 p.m.
  • Closing procedures begin 15 minutes before close and the ship will be closed in the event of inclement weather.

Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin are closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Please call for other holiday hours.

Call Group Sales at (757) 664-1010 or (800) 664-1080 ext. 41010 or Request More Information. Programs are available as early as 9 a.m.