Croatia: Marine Ecology Conservation

Introduction

Volunteers in the Marine Conservation program in Omis play a vital role in tackling sea pollution and safeguarding marine life through underwater clean-up efforts. While no prior diving experience is required, volunteers must obtain dive certification before participating in underwater conservation activities. The Program Fee covers the cost of necessary training, full scuba equipment, and supervision from experienced dive instructors, ensuring safety and competence in underwater endeavours. You can earn an internationally recognized SSI diving certifications, ranging from Scuba Diver to Open Water Diver, with additional specialty courses available, such as Marine Ecology and Fish Identification. Collaborating with a local diving school guarantees ongoing guidance from qualified instructors.

Contributing to the vision of healthier oceans and thriving ecosystems, volunteers engage in tasks like collecting and documenting marine debris, learning about the marine ecosystem, and observing and identifying fish species. You are encouraged to indicate any existing dive certifications in their application.

Join us in making a tangible impact on marine conservation by actively protecting our oceans and ecosystems. Volunteers will participate in hands-on tasks like removing and documenting marine debris, monitoring marine life, and identifying fish species. By contributing to these efforts, you’ll help safeguard biodiversity and promote healthier ocean environments. Together, we can inspire a dedicated community to take action in preserving our oceans for future generations.

Daily Life

Upon completing the initial orientation, you will move to the town of Omis to continue your program alongside fellow volunteers. A typical weekday includes;

8:00-9:00 am: Enjoy breakfast at the volunteer house.
9:00-9:30 am: Take the bus from the accommodation to the diving school.
10:00-12:30 am: Engage in the first dive of the day, starting with fundamental skills and progressing to dives in the Adriatic Sea over the course of a few days.
1:00-2:00 pm: Break for lunch.
2:00-4:00 pm: Participate in the second dive of the day.
4:00-4:30 pm: Return to Split
5:00-7:30 pm: Enjoy leisure time for relaxation, exploring the city, practice learning Croatian, or other activities.
7:30-9:00 pm: Gather for dinner at the volunteer accommodation, joining fellow volunteers for a communal meal.

Please note that this schedule is subject to change based on individual tracks, weather conditions, and progress. Adaptability is key, and volunteers should be prepared for potential adjustments to their daily routines.

Travel and Accom.

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted and transported to our project.

Your experience with us includes:

-Accommodation in a dormitory at a local hostel, with female only or mixed rooms and
bathrooms.
– Three meals daily, featuring local-style cuisine. Special dietary needs like vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose intolerance can be accommodated upon request.
– Shared access to common areas and complimentary WiFi.
– Orientation event upon arrival, providing insights into Croatian culture, volunteer experience, program overview, practical information, and safety guidelines.
– Guided city tour to help you explore and discover the city’s highlights.
– Expert recommendations for making the most of your time in the area.
– Allocation and coordination of a meaningful work placement in an impactful non-profit project.
– Introduction to your volunteer role on the first day, ensuring a smooth transition into your responsibilities.
– Provision of all necessary diving equipment, SSI diving classes, and certified instructors to guide you through the diving experience, with certifications tailored to your diving proficiency.

Requirements

• Minimum age 16
• Passion and enthusiasm for marine conservation
• Not afraid to get wet!
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Minimum 1 week commitment
• Good English skills
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flight & visas
• Full travel & medical insurance. Full assistance will be provided in getting everything you will need ready if you choose our Placement Support Package.

Costs

€1500 Euros for the first week.

Prices are then staggered to;

2 weeks: €2310
3 weeks: €3120
4 weeks: €3930

Enquire for longer stays

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a 1 week deposit, minimum 2 weeks booking

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes;

• All food,
• Accommodation,
• Airport pickup,
• Orientation,
• Sim card
• Guided tour of city
• 24/7 in-country support and
• All project related activities.

What’s not included:

• Flights
• Travel Insurance
• Airport drop-off
• Personal expenses
• Visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.