Projects Abroad | Marine Conservation

Belize: Reef Conservation Marine Internship

Placencia, Belize

Description

Location: Placencia, Belize

Duration: minimum 1 week commitment

Cost: from $1255 USD per week. See Costs section for more details.

Benefits:

  • Actively participate in marine conservation projects and environmental education initiatives.
  • Spearfish to eliminate the destructive invasive lionfish threatening native coral reef ecosystems.
  • Explore the marine world through identification dives, learning about coral reefs, tropical fish, sharks, manatees, dolphins, and various species.
  • Gain insights into diverse topics, including invasive species control, ocean acidification, and climate change, discovering practical measures to positively impact marine ecosystems.
Costs Explained

Intro.

Explore the wonders of scuba diving in the vast Belize Barrier Reef, home to the world’s second-largest reef system. Engage in spearfishing invasive Lionfish, an activity that helps protect coral reefs from harm. Immerse yourself in marine conservation efforts and contribute to safeguarding this fragile ecosystem.

Located on a picturesque Caribbean island, our project offers both thrilling diving experiences and the chance to make a meaningful impact on reef preservation. Join us for a unique adventure where conservation meets adventure!

Daily Life

We invite you to actively engage in the protection and preservation of our beloved oceans through our marine conservation projects and environmental education initiatives. Gain valuable insights into the threat posed by the invasive lionfish species to native coral reefs and directly contribute to their removal through spearfishing during our dives. Explore the intricate marine world, learning about coral reefs, tropical fish, sharks, manatees, dolphins, and various other species through our marine conservation identification dives.

Our comprehensive program covers diverse topics, from invasive species control, ocean acidification, to climate change. You’ll discover practical measures to combat these issues and make a positive impact on marine ecosystems. Join us and be a part of the difference!

Each week or day brings unique experiences as you actively contribute to the following areas:

Invasive Lionfish Removal:
– Spearfish to eliminate the destructive invasive Lionfish, threatening native coral reef ecosystems.

Marine Conservation Education:
– Acquire knowledge about coral reefs, marine animals, and effective ways to protect our oceans.

hale Shark Monitoring (if spotted):
– Participate in monitoring efforts for whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean.

Biodiversity Identification Dives:
– Engage in identification dives to enhance your understanding of reef ecosystems, covering fish, sea turtles, sharks, invertebrates, and corals.

Beach Clean-ups:
– Contribute to weekly beach and island trash/plastic removal on the islands of the Belize Barrier Reef.

Activities may vary depending on the season and the length of your stay, but you’re likely to experience a majority of them. Visit our video library for a comprehensive preview of the diverse and impactful activities you can expect during your time with us.

Book with Confidence

Travel & Accom.

Full instruction will be provided on how to reach the project site from several airport options nearby.

All volunteers will need to book somewhere to stay in Placencia, Belize upon arrival and departure on the weekends.  Those staying multiple weeks will need weekend accommodations on the mainland. Friday night through to Sunday night in between weeks with us will be on the island.

Fundraising Help

Requirements

  • Minimum age 18
  • Passion and enthusiasm for marine conservation
  • 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.
Premium Support Upgrade

Costs

 

Price USD
1 Weeks $1255
2 Weeks $2160
3 Weeks $3065
4 Weeks $3970
5 Weeks $4875
6 Weeks $5780
7 Weeks $6685
8 Weeks $7590

*All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee.

**Places are confirmed with a $300 deposit

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes

  • 5 days/4 nights on private island in the Caribbean off the coast of Belize
  • 3 meals daily during dive week
  • 12-13 dives per week
  • At least one night dive a week
  • Training for conservation work and participation in our conservation projects
  • Island boat transfers to and from island
  • Accommodations while on the island
What’s not included:
  • Flights to Placencia, Belize
  • Wetsuit, fins, booties, dive mask (must bring your own)
  • Scuba regulator & BCD not included (rental fee is $30 USD a week)
  • Sapodilla Cayes Marine Park Fees: 30 USD per week
  • Optional alcohol and soda/pop while on the island (2-5 USD per drink)
  • Optional PADI certification courses you would like to take while on the island
  • visas (if applicable),
  • and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in if you choose our premium support.
Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organize 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 organized with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.

Note: Map coordinates are approximate