ROV Registration Experience in Traverse City, Michigan
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
No intense fitness required; participants should be comfortable standing and engaging in manual tasks for several hours.
Overview
Join the ROV Registration program in Traverse City to build and operate your own underwater vehicle. Discover engineering and marine science through a hands-on, collaborative adventure that inspires discovery and environmental care.
ROV Registration
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Dive into the world of underwater exploration with our ROV Engineer and Explore program! Students will collaborate to design and build their own remotely operated vehicles, gaining hands-on experience in marine technology. This unique opportunity not only enhances engineering skills but also fosters a passion for protecting our precious water bodies.
About
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) are changing the way we observe and protect oceans and lakes. ROVs enable researchers and industry professionals to visually assess underwater areas once unreachable or too dangerous for human access. They increase the efficiency and accuracy of underwater inspections, enhance safety in marine construction, and expand the possibilities for scientific research. As human uses of surface waters expand, so do the possibilities for harmful impact on those waters. Underwater technology, like ROVs, can help us better protect water bodies and monitor their health.
In this program students collaborate in teams to design and build ROVs to complete specific missions. They also maneuver a professional grade ROV to observe and explore the underwater environment. Students engage with engineering practices, learn how technology can help us observe and protect the Great Lakes, and gain exposure to career paths in marine technology and freshwater protection.
The total cost of an ROV Engineer and Explore experience is $300. A $50 non-refundable deposit will reserve your field trip date, however, the remaining balance of your program will be due 30 days prior to your experience.
Location
PLEASE NOTE that this program takes place at Discovery Pier - located at 13271 S W Bay Shore Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684. It does NOT take place at our Suttons Bay building.
Duration
The program is 2.5 hours long. You can choose to start at either 9:15 AM or 1:45 PM.
Capacity
We can accommodate up to ~30 students for a program.
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Indoor Hands-On Work
Most of the activity involves indoor workshops; wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting slightly dirty from tool use or materials.
Plan for Group Collaboration
Be ready to work closely with team members to build and test your ROV, communication is key for a successful project.
Mind Water Safety Protocols
When testing your ROV in the water, follow all safety guidelines carefully, especially near docks and launch areas.
Bring a Notebook
Taking notes during design and testing phases can help track improvements and learning outcomes.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common loons on the water
- Great blue herons along the shoreline
History
Traverse City’s maritime history is deeply connected to its freshwater ecosystems and the role of Lake Michigan in trade and transport.
Conservation
The Inland Seas Education Association emphasizes protecting freshwater habitats through education and sustainable practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Traverse City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable layered clothing
Layers help adjust to indoor workshop temperatures and changing weather during outdoor testing.
all specific
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet during construction and around workshop tools or wet testing areas.
all specific
Notebook and pen
Useful for sketching designs, taking notes, and tracking modifications.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during sessions, especially on warmer days.