The Nature Conservancy named Block Island “one of the last great places on earth.” One reason for this is Block Island’s Great Salt Pond, where the Block Island Maritime Institute has operated for nearly two decades.

BIMI was founded in 1997, when a group of summer and year-round residents came together to purchase the historic Smuggler’s Cove in the Great Salt Pond which was in danger of being sold to a developer. BIMI has grown significantly from its humble beginnings. We continue to offer children’s programs and maritime activities. We have added an outdoor aquarium with five fantastic tanks filled with species from the Great Salt Pond and the waters surrounding Block Island. Come visit us and Learn… to love Block Island.