Reserved Tour

Reserve a private 30-minute guided tour for your students. Visit behind the scenes at Long Marine Lab to see and learn how incredible marine mammals are advancing UCSC conservation science research. Then, alongside the massive skull and bones of “Ms. Blue,” discover the fascinating world of blue whales and their essential role in nurturing healthy ocean ecosystems.

Before or after your tour, explore the Seymour Center’s interactive exhibits, aquarium tanks, shark pool, and seawater touch table.

Dates & Availability

Year-round, Tuesday–Sunday

  • 10:45 AM (1 tour)*
  • 11:30 AM (2 tours)
  • 12:30 PM (2 tours)
  • 1:30 PM (2 tours)
  • 2:30 PM (2 tours)

Groups must check in at least 15 minutes before tour time.

*Additional tour times may be available on weekend days and Mondays during summer months.

Fees
  • Reserved Tour fee ($50 per tour) + admission fees ($9 per child/student; $12 per adult; $11/senior)
  • Reserved Tour fees are non-refundable and due upon confirmation of your tour reservations.
  • Verified Title I school groups are eligible for 20% off admission fees upon request.
  • Parking paid separately through ParkMobile app.
Duration
Reserved Tour lasts 30 minutes. Explore Seymour Center exhibits and aquarium as long as you like. Most groups stay 1-2 hours.

Group Size
  • 20 participants maximum per tour, including at least two chaperones
  • Groups larger than 40 participants may schedule multiple tours over consecutive time slots
  • Chaperones count as tour participants; at least two adult chaperones per tour are required for school/youth groups.
Chaperones for school groups

Minimum adult-to-student ratio: 1 adult per 9 students on tour

Recommended chaperone ratios for school/youth groups during self-guided exploration time (adult:student):

  • grades K-2 (1:6)
  • grades 3-5 (1:8)
  • grades 6-8 (1:10)
  • grades 9-12 (1:12)
Schedule a Reserved Tour

Reservations are recommended at least three weeks in advance year-round, and far in advance for spring. Complete the form below to request your group visit.

Request a Reserved Tour

Refunds & Cancellations
  • Reserved Tour fees are non-refundable and due when we confirm your tour reservations.
  • Please pay admission fees on the day of your scheduled visit. Any payments received before your visit are non-refundable.
  • If you need to cancel, email visitseymour@ucsc.edu