Work alongside marine biologists fighting to save great white sharks! Volunteers work both on land and sea and get completely involved in researching and caring for the marine animals. Being “hands on” with the animals using the project’s shark cages and boats, volunteers will learn all about the behaviour of the animals and the climate of the sea, even watching dissections.
Volunteers who are keen photographers will also be given a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to get up close to the sharks and marine life in their natural habitat.
The program is a combination of several different experiences-mostly ecotourism and conservation through assisting and educating clients of Marine Dynamics and Dyer Island Cruises, but also seabird rehabilitation, beach clean ups, assembly of fishing line bins and some research.
Volunteers can choose whatever they want to do when they arrive at the research center. Some of the volunteers are more focussed on completing a dive course, others are keen on data and rehabilitation work, some of them are only here for the awesome shark experiences on the boat and are relaxing the rest of the time. Volunteers will get an orientation session on arrival and the local coordinators will tailor-make their experience according to their interests and ability.
Volunteers choose from day-to-day which boats they would like to assist on. The majority prefer the shark cage-diving vessel, but some choose to only go on the ecotour/whale-watching vessel, while others do a bit of both. Many of them also help out with bird rehabilitation work at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, doing the boat trips in-between.
This program is available all year round
Duration in weeks | Total mission budget |
|---|---|
2 weeks | 1753 € |
3 weeks | 2312 € |
4 weeks | 2872 € |
5 weeks | 3431 € |
6 weeks | 3991 € |
7 weeks | 4550 € |
8 weeks | 5109 € |
9 weeks | 5669 € |
10 weeks | 6228 € |
11 weeks | 6788 € |
12 weeks | 7347 € |
Accommodation is at the International Marine Volunteer Centre. There are 4 cottages that accommodate up to 6 people per cottage. Each cottage has a bathroom, kitchenette and living area as well as daily living essentials. The main building has a beautiful kitchen, equipped with induction plates, a microwave and oven for cooking and a fully functional recycling system in place.
There is also a very spacious living area with satellite TV, DVD player, board games, pool table and foosball. There is an activity hall with some weights and a table tennis table. The facility has a large, safe swimming pool and garden. Emergency numbers are in the house. Bedding is provided and washed on a weekly basis. There are Bicycles available for personal use. Remember to keep your personal belongings safe (each cottage has a safe).
– Age 18+
– Up to date CV/ resume
– Copy of return flight itinerary
– Basic level of English; understanding and speaking
– Acceptance subject to availability of position
For any international project, Freepackers requires travel insurance covering accidents, illness and repatriation, including civil liability for professional activities abroad.
For full protection while studying or interning abroad, you can take out Cap Student insurance online via this link Student insurance abroad | Chapka Assurances, which gives you a 5% discount.
If you choose another insurance provider, we will ask you to send us a copy of your insurance certificate in English.
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