Greece, Alonissos
Marine conservation in Greece
On the Greek island of Alonissos, help protect marine life in Europe’s largest national marine park through underwater clean-ups, marine observations and PADI certification.
- Where
- Alonissos, Greece
- Length
- 2 weeks
- Minimum age
- 18 years old
- Language
- English intermediate
from €3,860 for 2 weeks
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The project
Imagine saving marine life in Europe’s largest national marine park, where dolphins, turtles and falcons thrive.
As part of the marine conservation programme in Greece, you will devote your time to preserving the marine ecosystem of the island of Alonissos, including its six small surrounding islands and 22 uninhabited islets.
We invite you to join us on an immersive journey that combines adventure, learning, conservation, community involvement and lots of fun!
Seize the opportunity to make a positive social and environmental impact by voluntarily participating in conservation projects, coastal and underwater clean-ups, citizen science marine observations, plastic waste recycling seminars, and all this while exploring a Greek island and obtaining the most recognised PADI diving certification, to join the largest diving community in the world.
Your diving skills will enable you to make a difference by taking part in underwater activities that contribute to a cleaner environment and healthier ecosystems.
Together with other volunteers, you’ll have a tangible impact on the local community and encourage conscious environmental change!
Project Descriptions
Conservation project : Take part in hands-on conservation projects to protect the unique flora and fauna of Alonnisos and raise awareness among the local community and seasonal visitors. Learn environmentally-friendly practices that apply both underwater and on land.
Coastal and seabed clean-up : Dive into the waters of the Mediterranean to clean up the coastline and seabed, in order to preserve marine life and habitats. Discover the joy of making a tangible impact by witnessing the transformation of the underwater environment.
Marine observations : Take part in programmes to collect valuable data on marine life and contribute to ongoing research efforts.
Implementing plastic waste management on a local level : using innovative recycling methods inspired by the “Precious Plastic” initiative to make practical new items from this waste.
A project we follow
Projects chosen with care and followed through regular visits on site.
A typical week
- 08:00, breakfast at the accommodation
- 09:30, start of the project
- 13:30, lunch on the boat
- 17:00, end of the volunteer day
- 20:00, dinner at the accommodation
Accommodation and meals
Our accommodation offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience and true Greek style. You will stay in a shared single-gender room.
- Spacious communal areas for traditional cooking and outdoor grilling (there’s even a traditional oven for you to try!).
- Large courtyard with garden
- Grill-barbecue for culinary delights
- 100 metres from the beach
- Close to cafés, restaurants and supermarkets
- Wireless internet access (WiFi)
- Television, air conditioning, fridge and high-quality mattresses.
- Individual lockable locker.
Meals
Our programme includes breakfast and dinner.
Lunch is at the volunteer’s expense.
However, prices are extremely competitive and the restaurant where we provide breakfast offers cheap meals to volunteers.
At the seafront restaurant, each meal brings together local flavours and Mediterranean influences, while soaking up the ambience of the harbour.
Once on site
On the day of your arrival, the local team will be waiting for you at the ferry. You will also take part in an introduction to Greek culture, practical information and safety guidelines!
Budget
Length of stay
This programme is available from May to September. Departures every two weeks.
What is included
- Accommodation
- 24/7 assistance
- Transfer from Alonissos Harbour
- Half board (breakfast and dinner included)
- Follow-ups and support throughout your stay
- Donation to the project
- European Youth Card included, giving you access to discounts across Europe.
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Lunch
- Transfer to Alonissos Harbour
- Return transfer to airport
Where your money goes
Donations are reinvested in full and directly into the local associations. How the costs break down
See the budget week by week
| Length | Total programme budget |
|---|
Getting ready to leave
Your application
An up-to-date CV and a cover letter describing your background and what brings you here.
Conditions to take part
- 18 years old
- Know how to ride a bike and snorkel
- Sleep/stay on the beach a few nights for hatch rescue shifts (late July to October) and light pollution shifts (all season).
- Good physical condition to be able to walk or cycle on a hot day
Insurance
For any project abroad, Freepackers requires travel insurance covering accidents, illness, repatriation and third-party liability. With Chapka Cap Student, you get 5% off.
Online language lessons
With Clic Campus: video lessons and an e-learning platform, from home.
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