The underwater world of animals does not get as much publicity as its over ground partner, but if you dive beneath the waves you will be met by an abundance of fascinating wildlife. Back in 2012 scientists concluded that there are over a million different species of animals and plants in the different oceans around the world, but unfortunately some of this wildlife is in danger and that is why marine conservation projects are so drastically needed. Here at The Great Projects we have a number of different marine projects you can take part on, but what should you expect on these trips? We’ve put our heads together in the office and come up with some things to keep your eye on when you volunteer under the waves!
You need to be comfortable in the water
It may sound obvious but it is extremely important! Depending on the project you choose, you will need to be happy to snorkel, dive, or even just swim out in open waters and the realisation of this can be too much for some when they arrive at the project site. If however you are comfortable doing these things then you’re in for an amazing project!
It is going to be hot
The list of places our marine projects are based reads like a who’s who of tropical paradises all around the world. You can visit the Maldives, Sri Lanka, the Perhentian Islands, Mozambique and many more, but the one thing these places all have in common is that they are hot! Spending days on the water with little protection from the sun can be tough, so be prepared with sun cream, lots of water and by taking regular breaks in the shade.
You’ll get to see some of the wildlife quite close up
When you are beneath the waves you are in the marine wildlife’s domain and they are more likely to be comfortable with you. This means that you should be able to study whichever animal you are volunteering with in great detail and as a result help the conservation cause!
You will learn about things others never get the chance to
Being immersed in the underwater world of animals presents you with the chance to learn a lot about them from a first-hand point of view, and it is a view that few people get to see. On each of the projects you will have dedicated and extremely knowledgeable staff on hand to tell you all about the animals and what needs to be done to help save them. You should take advantage of this opportunity and ask as many questions as possible to really get the most from your time volunteering with endangered animals abroad.
You’ll want to go back!
The final thing to expect when volunteering at a marine wildlife project is that you’ll want to go back! Helping to protect animals the world over in an environment as picturesque and memorable as the ocean will leave you with memories which will last a lifetime. Once you’ve had a taste of one of the projects you’re sure to want to experience another, and who can blame you for wanting to volunteer in paradise!
If you do want to experience one of our Marine Wildlife Volunteering trips then you can find out more about them all here!
