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2011 Applications are now available

This page features general information about the OA Ocean Adventure program, as well as some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).

General Information
The Order of the Arrow, in cooperation with the Florida Sea Base is offering you an opportunity to cheerfully serve one of the greatest ecosystems on our planet – the Florida Keys and the waters which surround them. You will be camping on a remote 100 acre island, snorkeling on pristine coral reefs, trolling for sportfish, kayaking through red mangroves, and exploring the flora and fauna of Big Munson Island. You will wade ashore on Big Munson Island carrying all the food, water and equipment used during your adventure in a rugged camping setting. Venture out to snorkel, fish and explore.

OA Ocean Adventure

Your program is a 13 day experience in which participants will have the opportunity to improve the habitat of Big Munson Island. Participants will experience wilderness camping on one of the BSA’s island paradise in the Florida Keys. The program will be conservation based and will seek to improve trails, campsite location, critical Key Deer habitat and, renew and improve the critical mangroves surrounding the Island.

In addition to the conservation service, participants will strengthen leadership skills, learn more about marine environment, strengthen understanding of the Order of the Arrow, and explore the history of the beautiful Florida Keys.

Participants will enjoy many of the recreational opportunities unique to Sea Base. Sailing, deep sea fishing, sea kayaking and canoeing, snorkeling, fishing – you may even have the opportunity to go shark fishing while you enjoy life on Big Munson.

Program Cost:
Participant cost is $500 for the 13-day experience. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required with this application. The balance of the fee is due at the time of acceptance as a participant in the program. This fee covers food, housing, and all other program related expenses. Additional expenses, including travel to and from Sea Base as well as miscellaneous purchases, are the responsibility of the participant.

OA Ocean Adventure

Travel to Ocean Adventure:
A shuttle is available from the Miami International Airport to Sea Base’s Brinton Environmental Center located on Summerland Key, 23.8 miles north of Key West, Florida. The shuttle leaves the airport at 2:45pm on the day of your starting date, arriving at Sea Base at 5:00pm. The return trip leaves at 7:30am on your last scheduled day, arriving at Miami International Airport at 9:30am. Plan to arrive at Sea Base no later than 5:00pm on your starting date. Shuttle information and registration forms will be included in your packet. Participants are strongly encouraged to find a travel companion from their home council to ease the process of traveling to the base.

 

 

Lodge and Council Responsibilities:
Lodges and councils should only approve those youth Arrowmen who meet all of the qualifications for this program. The OA Ocean Adventure at the Florida Sea Base is not an easy experience and is a risk for those not physically prepared for the challenges of the Florida Keys and Atlantic Ocean.

OA Trail Crew

National OA Ocean Adventure Code of Conduct:
The general welfare of any group depends on the conduct of each individual member. This ensures the success of our national service project and provides the maximum benefit to every participant. As an Arrowman, I understand this and support the reasonable demands of conduct expected of me.

As a member of the Order of the Arrow I will:

  • Live the Scout Oath and Law and Order of the Arrow Obligation.
  • Observe, respect, and strive to live the Boy Scout Outdoor Code.
  • Observe the rules of NOAA, Florida Sea Base, and my OA program mate.
  • Wear my full official BSA uniform when required.
  • Attend and participate in all functions of the program.
  • Be personally responsible for damage or loss of property.
  • Respect all safety procedures and learn to use equipment properly.
  • Observe quiet hours.
  • Keep my living space clean and dispose of trash in its proper place.
  • At all times, be considerate of other participants and staff at the Florida Sea Base.
  • Understand that the purchase, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages, cigarettes or illicit drugs at any time during the program will not be permitted and will result in dismissal from the program at the expense of the participant. This standard shall apply to all participants. Compliance with Florida state law regulations will apply at all times.
  • Respect the laws of the State of Florida, the city of Islamorada, and the Florida Sea Base rules prohibiting the use of fireworks, firearms, and gambling. Infraction of these regulations will be grounds for immediate dismissal from the program at the expense of the participant.

Medical Requirements

Philmont height and weight restrictions do apply. For more information Click Here




OA High Adventure