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About The Man in The Sea and The Institute of Diving
The Institute of Diving is a non-profit, educational organization formed in 1977. The initial idea for establishing the institute and its museum was conceived in 1976 by a group of divers from the U.S. Navy’s SEALAB Program and representatives from commercial, academic, scientific, medical, and sport diving fields. The Institute of Diving opened up the world's first diving museum, the Man in the Sea Museum in March of 1982.
Far From Unraveling the Ocean’s Secrets
For centuries, humanity has been driven by a deep-sea curiosity to explore the ocean's depths, leading to remarkable advancements in underwater technology and research. Despite our progress, the ocean still holds countless mysteries waiting to be uncovered. Join us as we share the latest news and updates on underwater explorations, technological breakthroughs, and the impact of our activities on marine environments.
Museum Exhibits
The Man in the Sea Museum, the world's oldest diving museum, established in 1982! Nestled on Panama City Beach Parkway, our expansive 5,000 square foot museum is a treasure trove of diving history, featuring artifacts from diving dating back to the 1800s, well as modern commercial and naval equipment. Visitors of all ages can explore interactive exhibits, including SEALAB, and even try on Deep Sea Dive boots and various diving helmets. Join us to discover the fascinating world of diving and the incredible stories beneath the waves!
The Objectives of The Institute of Diving and
Man in the Sea Museum:
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Maintain a public museum to collect, preserve, educate, and display diving artifacts and documents of historical record and value.
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Develop and promote programs and projects for the improvement of scientific and technical knowledge of the membership and the general public.
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Provide a diving history library from which the membership may draw information.
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Accommodate and support professional and scientific communication.
Mission Statement
The Man in the Sea Museum is dedicated to preserving, educating, and inspiring the public through the history and advancement of underwater exploration. By showcasing the evolution of diving technology, honoring the pioneers of military and civilian diving, and promoting ocean conservation, we aim to celebrate humanity’s achievements beneath the sea. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive, interactive experience that highlights the vital role divers have played in shaping scientific discovery, environmental stewardship, and the ongoing exploration of our planet's oceans.
