We welcome volunteers from around the world to take part in our unique conservation program. We provide a nurturing environment for people who are passionate about the marine world and interested in biological studies to develop valuable skills and gain relevant experience; highly beneficial for pursuing a career in marine conservation.
Volunteer activities include: Benthic; fish and coral identification training; coral reef monitoring dives; coral nursery maintenance; whale shark identification studies; organizing whale shark encounter trips; data collection and management; coral treatment against Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease; Lionfish management; staffing our visitor center; guiding snorkel excursions; beach clean-ups; Environmental education program; and organizing fundraising activities. Volunteers are also expected to help out with activities within either of our supporting organizations.
Volunteers will gain experience and training in: PADI Open Water – Instructor certification (depending on program); whale shark photo-identification; Caribbean reef fish identification (opportunity to obtain a recognized fish ID qualifications with REEF); lionfish hunting licensing and spear training; how non-profit conservation works in a developing country; opportunity to visit other local non-profit organizations; real-life experience of the issues related to conservation and eco-tourism on a small Caribbean island.
We also provide short ‘introduction to Marine Conservation’ courses and the opportunity to acquire SCUBA diving qualifications up to Instructor Development Course.
Utila; Bay Islands
Year round (First Monday of every month)
4 – 14 weeks
Adults of both sexes 18+
Volunteers must be motivated and enthusiastic about the conservation of the natural environment; passionate about the ocean; and should have an interest in biological studies. Preferably with relevant experience and/or studying marine biology; conservation; environmental studies or related field; but not essential. Ability to work in tropical conditions; hot and humid climate with mosquitoes and sand flies. Must be a confident swimmer with capable snorkeling ability. Comfortable at sea and working on boats. No experience is necessary but if you suffer from extreme sea sickness maybe this is not the right project for you. Interpersonal skills; initiative; enthusiasm and the ability to work within a team are essential. All volunteers must have their own insurance; and documented evidence must be provided to us prior to volunteer arrival.
The costs of internships and volunteer programs are dependent on current diving certification; duration of stay; and program type. Typically starting at US$1995.
