More than 8–hundred Twin Ports sixth graders learned about ships, slips and seasickness this week.

It was part of the annual Duluth School District harbor education tours aboard the Vista Star. LeAnn Wallace tells us more

"I planned for this day all week, I was really excited."

For area 6th graders, it was the perfect day for a science field trip aboard the Vista Star.

"It was definitely warmer than we thought it was going to be."

The annual Saint Louis River Quest's program is in its 16th year, giving students a first hand look at the environmental, industrial, commercial, and recreational activities in their harbor.
Each student was given a "passport" to log what they learned.

"We've been learning about fish and how to keep the water clean"

"We learned about the lock systems and like animals we don't want in the lake and we learned about the largest fish in Superior."

"After visiting various stations, the students got the opportunity to do a little exploring on their own."

"We're kind of like looking around at the Harbor"

After getting an up close look at birds, bridges, ships, and slips, the kids saw the U.S Coast Guard perform a "man over board" rescue drill.
Tim Velner, Science Curriculum Specialist for Duluth Public Schools says this annual trip allows students to fully engage their senses in what they're learning.

"It also allows us to get the kids outside and interact with nature they've learned a lot about science throughout their years and this is a good time for them to find out the application of that science."

As the cruise came to an end, there was only one small complaint.

"I've been feeling a little nauseous but I've been having a lot of fun."
In Duluth, LeAnn Wallace, the Northlands News Center.

These watery field trips are sponsored by more than 30 Northland organizations.

Dozens of volunteers lend their time each year to make this interactive experience possible.