On this page you should find all the information you need to bring your class out for a lifechanging marine and coastal field trip at BMSC! If you don’t find the answer to what you are looking for, let us know!
Meet the 2026 field trips team!
The Field Trips Program
The BMSC field trip program has been offering hands on marine biology learning opportunities since 1975! We host field trips for learners of all ages, providing an in depth introduction to marine biology. Students experience a variety of activities within BMSC laboratories, out on the boats, and on the beautiful coastlines and beaches that surround Bamfield. The experiences provided by our amazing education team touch the lives of thousands of visitors every year. Our science field trips foster the passion to protect our oceans and coastlines, and even inspire many young students to pursue a career in the marine sciences!
Though the following video is now over a decade old (wow!) it continues to capture the spirit of our field trips program! Make sure you see our activities tab to see what trips we currently offer.
How do you get your class here?
We offer field trips in the Fall (September to November) and Spring (February to April). Field trips during these months will have pre-set dates. The available field trip dates and application process for each upcoming Fall or Spring will be announced via an e-mail contact list and our social channels before each season of trips.
Please contact us if you would like to be added to our e-mail list to receive info about future field trip bookings.
Email: fieldtrips(at)bamfieldmsc.com | Phone: (250) 728-3301 ext. 273
We offer 2-night, 3-night, and 4 night stays. We encourage you to check out our offered activities and sample itineraries that students can experience in their visit! In order to comply with Transport Canada regulations for marine vessel capacity, we require group sizes to be in multiples of 12. We encourage groups to fill all of the spots in their package, even if it means opening up extra spots to students in other grades, or partnering with a neighbouring school.
We are excited to announce that we have recently increased our capacity to ensure more students will have the opportunity to visit BMSC! However, the field trip program is very popular, and we are not always able to accommodate every group that expresses interest, especially for their ideal dates. We encourage you to get your application in early so you can get the spot that works best for your group.
If your group could use financial assistance to get here, please see our bursaries page for details!
Have more Questions? Try our Frequently Asked Questions page here.
Apply for a field trip!
The initial round of applications for Fall 2026 Field Trips is closed.
We are currently accepting applications for Fall 2026 field trips on a rolling first come first serve basis for remaining dates.
Apply here: Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre – Fall 2026 Field Trip Application
The BMSC adheres to current BC Health Authority Guidelines and guests are encouraged to follow these closely when planning your trip. Visitors should be aware that Bamfield is located in a remote community, albeit with a 911 first-responder service, and the Bamfield Health Centre is ready to assist in the event of a medical emergency.
Testimonials
“I just want to thank the staff at BMSC for making my school’s trip so incredible. From the background planning to the upfront educational staff, everything was first rate. I don’t think it would be fair to single any of them out as they were all so knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible with our group. Of note, we had a special needs student with us. Your staff were exceptional allowing her to be part of the experience while meeting her needs. The kitchen staff were also super friendly and the meals they provided were first rate. They went well above expectations especially dealing with our diet restricted individuals.
Bamfield is a special place. Personally, this was my third visit and it never disappoints.” – Ian Drysdale, Jr/Sr High Science, Warburg School, Spring 2026
“A true west coast experience this past week at Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. Such genuine passion from the marine educators here — what a privilege it was to learn from them about the world of marine science and conservation. Thank you.”– Alina Ismaguilova (Ms. I), Head Teacher, Prince of Wales Mini School, Spring 2026
