Italy - Meet the sea turtles of the Adriatic and take part in a unique scientific and educational project in the heart of a protected natural environment. A seaside experience combining research, exploration and awareness-raising. All sea turtle missions here.
In the heart of the Po Delta Regional Park of the Horse
Our partner's project takes place in the Po Delta Regional Park, one of Europe's richest and most emblematic ecosystems. The aim of the project is to contribute to the protection of sea turtles in the Adriatic Sea through monitoring, awareness-raising and environmental education.
Marine fauna study
Every summer, volunteers are invited to join the team in the field to take part in a wide range of activities: sea outings, scientific data collection, wildlife observation, exchanges with the general public and beach clean-ups. Accessible to all, the project offers a complete pedagogical approach: you will be trained on site, and no scientific prerequisites are required. The aim is also to turn you into an ambassador for marine biodiversity.
Over the past three years, our partner's activities have enabled :
- Photo-identification of over 200 dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
- The discovery and protection of the first sea turtle nest in the region
- Raising awareness among thousands of tourists and students,
- Training dozens of students.
A typical day as an ecovolunteer
Activities take place early in the morning and late in the day, ideal times for turtle watching. This leaves you free time in the middle of the day to enjoy the beach, explore the area or simply relax.
Your tasks include :
- Sea turtle observation at sea, aboard a research boat
- Search for signs of nesting on beaches
- Data collection and participation in scientific surveys
- Raising public awareness through educational events
- Nature walks and birdwatching in the park
- Beach clean-ups and coastal protection
In parallel with your stay, you will also be invited to support the mission over the long term by becoming an active member of the project.
- July only
- Stays of at least one week, up to 4 weeks (2 weeks recommended)
- Package 750 € for 7 days / 6 nights
- Includes: accommodation and dinners
- Not included: breakfasts, lunches, transport
- Travel insurance not included
- Transfer from Ravenna station (to be arranged in advance)
- Immersion in an unspoilt environment, with friendly supervision
- A mission open to all, even those with no prior scientific training
- A practical approach to conservation, combining observation, data collection and awareness-raising
- An ideal balance between commitment and relaxation, with free time every day
An exceptional place, at the crossroads of the sea, lagoons and coastal forests
- Minimum age: 18
- No scientific experience required
- Recommended level of English: intermediate (B1-B2)
- Good physical condition required for outdoor activities (boating, walking, beach)
- No interview selection: just contact us by e-mail.
- Accommodation: shared accommodation near the activity center
- Meals: dinners included (hot meals, friendly atmosphere), breakfasts and lunches to be arranged individually
- Living environment: peaceful seaside resort in the heart of a listed natural park
- Local language: English
- Transfer possible from Ravenna station (to be arranged in advance)
Situated between sea and nature, the Po Delta Regional Park is a paradise for biodiversity lovers. Away from the missions, you can enjoy the beaches of Lido di Spina, explore the park's trails, observe the many species of birds, or visit the charming surrounding towns of Ravenna and Comacchio.
About the partner
TAO Turtles of the Adriatic Organization is an association founded in 2018 by a group of Italian marine biologists. The association operates within one of the natural areas with the greatest biodiversity in Europe: the Po Delta Park. The aim of the project is to monitor and protect key threatened marine and coastal species, such as sea turtles and dolphins, and to develop local environmental awareness projects.
