Florida Keys 2027
Seattle Christian School
Trip dates: March 29 - April 2, 2027
Unveiling the Wonders of God’s Creation on North America’s Living Coral Reef
God's design in the Florida Keys is a stunning showcase of natural beauty and biodiversity. This unique chain of islands boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an array of wildlife. From the lush mangroves to the enchanting sunsets, each aspect reflects a divine artistry. The Keys serve as a habitat for numerous species, including endangered sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. The calm, inviting atmosphere offers a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciation of God's creation, making the Florida Keys a true paradise on Earth.
Faith & Science
Day 1 - Arrival, Orientation, and Service
Arrive, Volunteer, and Begin Your Adventure
Arrive into Ft. Lauderdale and travel to Homestead
Program orientation
Hotel Check-in
Volunteer at RCMA Children's Center
Redlands Christian Migrant Association was born in 1965 to provide a safe haven for children of impoverished farmworkers in South Florida. With the help of mothers from the Migrant community and others, day-cares were opened. Over the years, many volunteers have provided education and assistance to these families. Students will assist with projects such as homework assistance, reading programs, and/or light construction projects.
Dinner
Swim Test at Hotel Pool
Your Appleseed Expeditions tour director will conduct a swim and safety test with student travelers in the hotel pool.
Reflections
Tour Director will meet with group to discuss day's events and review planned schedule for the following day.
Day 2 - Dolphins, Wild Bird Sanctuary, and Shallow Bay Studies
Swim with Dolphins and Volunteer at Sanctuary
Breakfast at hotel
Swim with Dolphins at Dolphins Plus
Discover the incredible design of dolphins through the fascinating connections between mathematics, nature, and adaptation. Explore how patterns such as the Fibonacci sequence and principles of efficiency can be observed throughout the natural world, helping us better understand the streamlined bodies, movement, and behaviors of these remarkable marine mammals. Learn about dolphin intelligence, social structures, and sophisticated communication systems while gaining insight into how they thrive in their ocean environment. After this engaging educational experience, your group will have the unforgettable opportunity to enter the water and swim alongside dolphins, observing these amazing animals up close and gaining a deeper appreciation for their beauty, agility, and unique place in the marine ecosystem.
Lunch
Volunteer at the Wild Bird Sanctuary / Shallow Bay Studies
Discover the rehabilitation efforts of a wild bird sanctuary. Over 16,000 injured and sick wild birds of different species have been cared for and released back into their natural habitat. Explore the shallow bay ecosystem and collect marine species to study from the seagrass lagoon. Here you will analyze this coral nursery system.
Dinner
Reflections
Tour Director will meet with group to discuss day's events and review planned schedule for the following day.
Day 3 - Sea Turtle Hospital and Mangrove Kayaking
Visit Sea Turtle Hospital and Kayak Mangroves
Breakfast at hotel
Sea Turtle Hospital
Visit Florida’s only hospital for sick and injured sea turtles. Learn about the hospital’s patients and discover the extraordinary care that is provided to these endangered creatures.
Lunch
Kayak in the Mangroves
Discover the fascinating world of mathematical patterns in nature as we explore how plants and flowers follow the Fibonacci sequence—specifically the 3, 5, and 8 pattern seen in leaves, petals, and spirals. Then, dive into the vital role mangroves play in protecting and sustaining marine ecosystems. Paddle through the winding mangrove tributaries by kayak, where you’ll have the chance to observe sharks, crocodiles, and a rich diversity of marine wildlife in their natural habitat.
Dinner
Reflections
Tour Director will meet with group to discuss day's events and review planned schedule for the following day.
Day 4 - Southernmost Point and Catamaran Snorkel Adventure
Snorkeling and Southernmost Point
Breakfast at hotel
Visit the Southernmost Point of the Contiguous United States
Tour the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and catch one of Key West's famous sunsets! The Southernmost Point Buoy is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Florida Keys. It’s a giant painted buoy marker that reads: “90 Miles to Cuba” and one of the most photographed spots in Florida.
Lunch on catamaran
Catamaran Snorkel Adventure
Explore the vibrant coral reef and encounter sea turtles, sharks, and a stunning variety of coral fish. Learn how each of these creatures reveals unique mathematical patterns and design variances—evidence of the intricate and purposeful design in God’s creation.
Dinner
Reflections
Tour Director will meet with group to discuss day's events and review planned schedule for the following day.
Day 5 - Everglades, Airboats, and Conservation
Airboats, Alligators, and Everglades Conservation
Breakfast at hotel
Check-out of hotel
Everglades, Airboats & Alligators
Experience an airboat ride in the Everglades followed by an alligator show. Learn about predator/prey relationships found in this region.
Volunteer at the Everglades Outpost
Volunteer at the Everglades Outpost, where you'll make a meaningful impact through hands-on conservation work. Help expand animal enclosures, assist with habitat maintenance and cleanup projects, and support a variety of wildlife care and environmental stewardship initiatives. This rewarding service experience provides an opportunity to learn about native Florida wildlife, contribute to ongoing conservation efforts, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the Everglades ecosystem.
Time to travel home and share your stories!
Note
Itinerary subject to change due to weather, vendor availability, and reasons beyond our control.
Map
A. Ft. Lauderdale
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USAB. RCMA Children's Center
Redlands Christian Migrant Association, 402 W Main St, Immokalee, FL 34142, USAC. Dolphins Plus
101900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, USAD. Florida Keys Wild Bird Sanctuary
93600 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070, USAE. The Turtle Hospital
2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050, USAF. Mangrove Kayaking (Marathon Area)
Marathon, FL 33050, USAG. Southernmost Point
Whitehead St & South St, Key West, FL 33040, USAH. Catamaran Snorkel Adventure (Key West)
Key West, FL 33040, USAI. Everglades Airboat & Alligator Show
Everglades, FL, USAJ. Everglades Outpost
35601 SW 192nd Ave, Homestead, FL 33034, USAPacking List
Florida Keys Packing List
Luggage/carry-on: Pack light. Travelers will be carrying their own luggage. We ask that you limit your luggage to one suitcase with a maximum weight limit of 40 lbs. Remember to reserve some weight for souvenirs you’ll want to bring home. Airlines have their own weight restrictions and do charge if you go over. Visit your airline’s website for more information about their luggage restrictions and baggage fees. We suggest bringing one carry-on to include anything you might need during your flight and for your first day upon arrival. Leave valuables at home. TSA allowed items
Travel documents
Minors – copy of birth certificate or school ID recommended. Adults – government issued photo ID such as a driver’s license/REAL ID required. For questions regarding identification requirements with the airline, check out TSA-ID for more info.
Health & travel insurance cards/info
Credit card for personal expenses
Copy of itinerary including flight and hotel info.
Clothing
Modest, comfortable, casual wear
1 pair of lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying pants for Everglades
Appleseed t-shirt for service day
Undergarments
PJs
Modest swimwear, rash/sun guard, cover-up
Light jacket
Rain poncho
Closed-toe, non-slip walking shoes and non-slip sandals that can get wet
Water shoes
Accessories
Toiletries (carry-on liquids, gels and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, inside a single quart-size clear, sealable bag)
Plastic/vinyl bags for dirty and/or wet clothes
Hat, sunglasses
Beach towel
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or more – waterproof)
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Backpack or daypack (waterproof or include waterproof case)
Camera, phone, earbuds and chargers
Packaged snacks
Money for souvenirs, snacks/meals during airport transfers/flights (cash and credit card recommended)
Journal and pen
Medication/Vitamins
*All medications and vitamins should be in original containers with proper labels.
Suggested Travel aids
*Chewing gum, small neck pillow, motion-sickness remedy, reading material.
About Us
Appleseed Expeditions, Inc.
162 reviews
Appleseed Expeditions provides service-learning trips for students that incorporate education, adventure, and service!