This program , November 20-25, 2026, is open to students who have attended AIO and performed in an exemplary manner.
AIO Alum Florida Exploration Program
Dates: November 20-25, 2026
Open to: Alums of AIO programs, 14 years and up
What will we do? Citrus County and the Crystal River have become synonymous with manatees, and we will explore their winter homes along with other natural environments in the area. Sea Star Explorations and the host facility will provide transportation for all off-site visits (including boats and buses), breakfasts and dinners as well as transportation to and from the Orlando airport. we ask students to try to arrive by 3 pm on Friday, Nov. 20 so we can be at Sea World by 6 pm for the start of our overnight program. The next morning, the group will go directly to Discovery Cove where we’ll spend the day snorkeling in that park and engaging in a dolphin encounter. Once we head to the Crystal River, some of everyday will be spent in the water. All gear will be provided (snorkel, mask, fins, wetsuit) for all activities. Besides snorkeling with the manatees in the Crystal River twice, you’ll also snorkel in the Devil’s Den and down the Rainbow River to learn about the cenotes and amazing springs of Florida first hand. Participants will pay for their own snacks, souvenirs, and hotels outside of the program dates.
We have planned some land based programs for the group as well which include a tour the 3 Sister’s State Park, the Ellie Schiller Wildlife Park and Crystal River Archaeological Park. We will be staying at the Plantation Inn Golf Resort on the Crystal River. Here guests will find a full-service resort with classic rooms, excellent dining, a lagoon-style pool, an Aveda spa, and a world-class, traditional golf course. Evenings can be spent in the hotel lounge, the pool/hot tub or just spending time to relax with other students. Our staff will be giving talks prior to dinner so you’ll be able to get to bed at a reasonable hour for our early rising to snorkel with manatees.