Mediterranean – Embark on a unique scientific expedition aboard a research yacht and play an active role in preserving marine ecosystems. Immerse yourself fully in life at sea alongside passionate biologists. Find more marine wildlife expeditions here.
Study of marine flora and fauna in the Mediterranean
Project Manaia is a mobile marine research initiative that travels across the Mediterranean on board a sailing vessel. Each season, the crew undertakes 11 series of 12-day cycles, during which observations are made and data collected on various aspects of the marine ecosystem.
The five main areas of research are:
- Mapping Posidonia seagrass beds: Assessing the distribution and health of Posidonia oceanica seagrass beds, which are essential to Mediterranean biodiversity.
- Monitoring of invasive species: Monitoring the spread of non-native species, particularly those introduced via the Suez Canal, and assessing their impact on local ecosystems.
- Plastic pollution: Collecting and analysing marine litter, identifying areas with high concentrations of debris, and taking part in clean-up operations.
- Marine megafauna monitoring: Monitoring populations of marine mammals and turtles, and studying their relationship with the health of underwater habitats.
- Citizen science projects: Involving volunteers in data collection and raising awareness, thereby promoting a better understanding of marine issues.
A typical day for an eco-volunteer
The days are filled with research activities (snorkelling, observations, data collection) in the morning and late afternoon, with free time in the middle of the day to rest or take part in life on board.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Conducting snorkelling transects to study seagrass beds and invasive species
- Collection and sorting of marine litter
- Observation and recording of megafauna species
- Assistance with the maintenance of research equipment
- Helping with day-to-day tasks on board (meal preparation, navigation, maintenance)
- Operating period: April to September
- Duration: 12 days on board (disembarkation on the 13th day). The ports of embarkation are different from the ports of disembarkation.
- Price for non-students: €1,550 (includes accommodation, meals on board and supervision)
- Student rate: on request
- Travel insurance not included
- Travel to the port of embarkation is not included
2026 Calendar
- From 20 April to 2 May: from Licata (Sicily) to Pylos (Greece)
- From 4 May to 16 May: from Pylos (Greece) to Gythio (Greece)
- From 18 May to 30 May: from Gythio (Greece) to Porto Cheli (Greece)
- From 1 June to 13 June: from Porto Cheli (Greece) to Porto Cheli – Argolic Golf
- From 15 June to 27 June: from Porto Cheli (Greece) to Kapsali (Greece)
- From 29 June to 11 July, from Kapsali (Greece) to Kalamata (Greece)
- From 20 July to 1 August: from Kalamata (Greece) to Pylos (Greece)
- From 3 August to 15 August: from Pylos (Greece) to Argostoli/Kefalonia (Greece)
- From 17 August to 29 August: from Argostoli (Greece) to Syracuse (Italy)
- From 31 August to 12 September: from Syracuse (Italy) to Malta (Malta)
- From 14 September to 26 September: from Malta to Licata (Sicily)
- An immersive experience at sea, as part of an international team of researchers
- Active involvement in practical research projects that have a real impact on marine conservation
- Field training, open to motivated non-scientists
- Discover the Mediterranean in a different way, sailing from one port to another
A friendly and collaborative atmosphere that encourages discussion and learning
- Minimum age: 18
- Required level of English: Intermediate to advanced (B1/B2 minimum)
- It is essential to know how to swim
- No diving certificate required (activities mainly involve snorkelling)
- Job description:
- Students or professionals in fields related to marine biology (the majority of places)
- Enthusiasts without a scientific background (3 places per course)
- Accommodation: On board the SY Waya Waya sailing yacht (shared accommodation)
- Meals: Prepared together on board
- Access: The ports of embarkation and disembarkation vary depending on the itinerary (see the 2025 calendar in Dates and Prices)
Language spoken on board: English
Aside from research activities, volunteers can make the most of stopovers to explore the Mediterranean coastline, go for a swim, try their hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on board. It’s a unique opportunity to combine environmental commitment with maritime adventure.
About the partner
Project Manaia is an Austrian non-profit organisation dedicated to marine research and conservation. Founded by ocean enthusiasts, it combines citizen science, awareness-raising and exploration to protect the marine ecosystems of the Mediterranean. Through its expeditions aboard the sailing vessel SY Waya Waya, it offers volunteers a unique opportunity to actively contribute to the preservation of marine biodiversity.
