Frequently Asked Questions

When are the Turtle Treks offered?

Sea Turtle nesting season on Florida’s southeast coast is March 1st to October 31st.  However, nesting and emergence are at their peak from June- August.  Our treks take place when activity is at its peak. Availability to participate in this program is extremely limited in accordance with the guidelines stipulated in our permits. We encourage you to reserve your space as soon as possible. 

What are the hours of the program?

Usually, nesting and hatchling emergence on Florida beaches occur between sunset and sunrise.  Therefore, your Turtle Trek will take place at night. Program duration is approximately 4 hours. 

Are there any age restrictions?

Given the late hour and nature of the program, it is not recommended for children under the age of 6. Pricing is the same, regardless of the age of the participant.  Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Will I be able to touch or hold the sea turtles?

In accordance with our permits with the Florida Fish and  Wildlife Commission, only qualified staff are allowed to handle the sea turtles.

What about inclement weather?

Turtle Treks take place rain or shine.  Rain does not deter the turtles from hatching.  Treks will only be suspended in the event of severe weather or lightning and decisions will be made in real-time.  Please plan to arrive as scheduled.  In the event the walk is not possible, you will be provided with the option to re-schedule at no cost.  Since we cannot control the weather, and your participation tuition is a direct program support contribution, refunds will not be possible.

Will I be able to participate if I have a physical disability or mobility challenges?

The facilities at our Headquarters are ADA compliant.  Public sidewalks are available along the beach habitat where our Turtle Treks take place.  However, our ability to accommodate you on the sandy beach will be limited. We recommend anyone with mobility challenges to contact our Administrative Team for assistance  (954-404-0025) prior to booking your adventure.  

 

Turtle Trek Instructions and Guidelines

• Please arrive at our Headquarters 15 minutes prior to scheduled start time.  
• Headquarter address: 3104 NE. 9th St. Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304
• Public metered parking is available. We encourage you to pay for at least 4 hours so that your time on the beach is not interrupted. 
• Turtle Treks will conclude at the scheduled time unless there are turtles in need of our rescue.
• Dress comfortably in medium to dark-colored clothing (white and other highly reflective colored clothing is strongly discouraged).  Wear shoes that are suitable for walking long distances on the habitat.  We may walk up to 2 miles during the course of the program.
• Feel free to bring a dark colored rain jacket or poncho.
• Other items you are welcome to bring include beverages, snacks, and a beach towel.  Chairs are not permitted.
• Organic, all-natural insect repellent will be available for participants free of charge.
• Flash photography, flashlights or light of any kind are not allowed during the treks (this includes glow sticks, glow necklaces, etc.)
• We will ask that you lower your cellphone back-light to its dimmest setting and that they are switched to “silent mode” before arriving at the habitat.  Cellphones should be used only when absolutely necessary or in case of an emergency.
• All participants are required to remain with their assigned group for the entire duration of the program.
• If a nesting turtle is encountered, it is important that participants follow the instructions of the Rescue Staff.
• If a hatchout is imminent, our rescue staff will provide you with specific instructions on where they need you be to observe the emergence.  Following their direction is paramount, as the health and safety of the hatchlings and the integrity of our data must not be compromised.
• If disoriented hatchlings are rescued and recovered, our staff will invite you to the ocean’s edge where the hatchlings will be released to continue their epic journey of survival.