Itinerary
You will first complete an initial training phase where you will learn to accurately identify locally targeted fish, invertebrate or coral species. Training will involve snorkel and dive point outs with professional staff, as well as learning benthic, fish, coral and invertebrate species. Depending on weather conditions, we aim for everyone to have 1 or 2 dives/snorkels each day, 5 days a week, during which you will conduct underwater surveys after you complete your training. Besides diving, you should expect to be involved in additional projects and activities, including training sessions, marine debris surveys and removal, environmental education session or alternative income training, depending on local and project needs. You will also be required to complete base duties. You will stay on the Caqalai Island base in basic dormitory accommodation with your fellow volunteers with a communal kitchen, living and work area, taking turns with base duties on a rotational basis. Weekends are usually yours to rest up and relax, or perhaps even explore some of the surrounding area, all depending on the project needs and requirements.
About
Dive in crystal blue water and discover the rich biodiversity of the South Pacific while assisting with research which will aid the local management of marine protected areas. Contribute to national efforts to conserve Fiji’s delicate coral reefs and marine ecosystems while living on research base on the stunning Caqalai Island. Travel to idyllic traditional Fijian villages; gain your PADI Advanced Open Water qualification and contribute towards tangible, long-term community benefits.
Rates
-
Rates Include
- 24-hour emergency phone
- 24-hour in-country support
- Access to Alumni Services and Discounts
- Community work workshop
- Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)
- All necessary project equipment and materials
- All necessary project training by experienced staff
- Coral reef ecology
- Location orientation
- Long term experienced staff
- Meals while on project (except on work placements for long term internships)
- First Aid & CPR Training
- PADI Coral Reef Research Diver Distinctive Speciality
- Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared)
- Welcome meeting
- Transfer to base location
- PADI Open Water (for 8 and 12 week volunteers) and Advanced Open Water
- Use of O2 equipment workshop
-
Rates do not Include
- Additional drinks and gratuities, extra local excursions, flights, international and domestic airport taxes, medical and travel insurance, personal kit, personal dive kit, e.g. mask, fins, wetsuit, timer, DSMB and reel, slate, etc. police or background check (where necessary), visa costs
Activities
Exploration
Participate in programmes assisting disadvantaged communities or endangered ecosystems and travel in the local area in your downtime or further afield, either before or after your programme. The long term field staff are a great source of advice and are here to help you make the most of your time abroad.
Scuba Diving
Get into the water everyday to dive or snorkel, conduct underwater surveys after you complete your training and develop an impressive knowledge of this fascinating underwater environment.