Marine conservation project on a Greek island. Get involved in the largest marine park in Europe, in Alonissos, the easternmost island of the Sporades archipelago, in the north-west of the Aegean Sea. This programme takes place underwater while diving. However, you can learn to dive on-site. All solidarity travel in Europe here.
Marine conservation project on Alonissos Island
This marine conservation project is located within the largest marine national park in Europe, around the island of Alonissos, in Greece. Not only does this park host a unique flora and fauna, such as the iconic Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), but it also bears witness, through archaeological research, to a rich history. Indeed, shipwrecks, ancient monasteries and churches dating from prehistoric times, the classical period and the Byzantine Empire have been discovered there. The aim of the Marine Park is to protect the flora and fauna of Alonissos, to raise awareness among the local community and visitors about biodiversity protection, and to conduct research.
Coastal and seabed protection covers several different areas
- Waste collection
- Citizen science programmes in collaboration with Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, in order to collect data on marine life to advance research.
- Plastic waste management through innovative recycling practices and production of new objects.
Thanks to our partner ImpacTrip, you can join this marine conservation project. You will use your scuba diving skills to clean the marine environment around the beautiful island of Alonissos. If you do not know how to dive, you can learn on-site.
Waste collection, citizen science and PADI certification
This marine conservation project is located within the largest marine national park in Europe, around the island of Alonissos, in Greece. A large part of the activities takes place while scuba diving. You will also learn or continue your diving training and obtain a PADI certificate. As a volunteer, you will take part in various initiatives, including coastal and underwater waste collection, scientific observations, and seminars on plastic waste recycling.
Examples of daily tasks you will be assigned
- Collecting waste and debris from the coastline and underwater areas to help preserve marine habitats.
- Observing and recording data as part of citizen science initiatives, thereby contributing to marine biodiversity research.
- Participating in plastic waste recycling and promoting sustainable practices.
You will benefit from scuba diving training. You will take part in scuba diving training sessions and work towards your PADI certification while exploring the underwater world around Alonissos.
If you do not know how to dive
The programme is open to people who have never dived before. However, they will need to begin their stay with a diving training course in order to obtain their certificate. This is an essential step to safely participate in the conservation activities. Once you have gained independence, generally during the second week, you will be able to start taking part in waste collection. If it is your first time diving and you have little or no experience, it is strongly recommended to sign up for at least two weeks to ensure you can participate in the marine conservation programme. If you only stay for one week, you may not take part in open water diving.
If you are a certified diver
If you are already certified in scuba diving, the instructors will assess your skills so that you can begin fully participating in the various aspects of the programme. You can start the programme at any level of experience and obtain the next level of certification accordingly!
Dates
- 1 or 2 weeks
Fees
- 1 week: €1,870
- 2 weeks: €3,250
Included in the fee
- Airport welcome on Sundays
- Accommodation
- Two meals per day (breakfast and dinner)
- Orientation on arrival: culture, volunteering, programme details and safety
- Guided city tour with tips for exploring
- Ongoing support throughout your stay (provided by ImpacTrip)
- 24/7 emergency assistance, just in case (provided by ImpacTrip)
Not included in the fee
- Flights
- Airport pick-up outside of Sundays
- Return to the airport
- Personal expenses
- Transport from the hostel to the project
- Insurance
- Private room
- From 18 years old
- 1 or 2 weeks
- Language: English (intermediate level)
- No scuba diving experience is required. Your programme includes a certified diving course adapted to your diving skills.
- Medical certificate mandatory
- Must be able to swim
- You contribute to the conservation of marine ecosystems in the beautiful Greek islands, within the largest marine park in Europe. Like many marine ecosystems around the world, the waters around Alonissos have been affected by global warming and climate change, threatening local marine life.
- You take part in a citizen science project.
- You develop skills in marine conservation.
- You benefit from scuba diving training.
- You discover a unique culture and the natural beauty of Alonissos island.
Accommodation You will be staying in a traditional Greek villa, in twin rooms shared with another volunteer and with a private bathroom.
Food Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available on request.
WiFi You have access to WiFi.
Location Alonissos is located in the Northern Sporades islands, in the Aegean Sea, off the east coast of mainland Greece. It is home to the largest marine national park in Europe. You can spot dolphins, turtles, falcons and the Mediterranean monk seal. Alonissos is a haven for nature lovers.
During your free time, you will have the opportunity to discover the beautiful island of Alonissos. Alonissos is the easternmost island of the Sporades archipelago, in the north-west of the Aegean Sea. It is an island of lush vegetation and incredible waters. This destination is ideal for nature lovers in search of a beautiful getaway. Alonissos is famous for its marine park, which is home to many terrestrial and marine animal species, such as the iconic Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus). It also boasts a large number of hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
Tous les avis sur les missions Impactrip
About the Partner
Our partner is a social enterprise whose mission is to support and strengthen the work of non-profit social and environmental organizations. The company was founded in 2015 by Rita and Diogo, two social entrepreneurs who wanted to change the way people travel. The organization offers travelers the opportunity to take part in a variety of projects, mainly across Europe. It is B Corp certified, meaning that it combines social and environmental goals with profit. The B Corp community works toward reducing inequality, lowering poverty levels, creating a healthier environment, building stronger communities, and generating more high-quality jobs with dignity and purpose.
