Requirements and Training
Marine Conservation Expedition in Mexico

Skills Required

Volunteers for this expedition need to be qualified to PADI Open Water (or equivalent) and above. GVI’s comprehensive training program will provide volunteers with all the skills necessary for expedition life, such as marine survey techniques. Volunteers must be able to pass a medical examination to prove they are physically fit to dive, although there are also limited opportunities for volunteers to attend as non-diving volunteers if circumstances dictate. All volunteers s will have to complete a swimming test on arrival at the expedition base (consisting of an unaided 200m surface swim followed by a 10 min float, and a 300m swim with snorkel, mask and fins followed by a 10 min float, both in the open sea environment). Everyone must be able to work as part of a team and have a strong interest in wildlife and conservation. Participants must also be enthusiastic, adventurous, have a good sense of humour and be respectful of the host country’s environment and cultures.

Training and Qualifications

The training program will provide you with a thorough understanding of marine environments and conservation, which you will build upon throughout your stay. Topics covered include: marine conservation, oceanography, First Aid, basic Spanish, research diving skills, marine survey skills, fish and coral identification, a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course with optional Rescue Diver and Divemaster (subject to availability), the PADI speciality course in underwater photography, and an Introduction to TEFL qualification necessary to assist in the various community programs. GVI provides an exceptional standard of training in many internationally recognised qualifications.

Opportunities for Spanish Lessons

For those participants who are interested, you can arrive early and spend a week or two studying Spanish at a language and cultural centre in Playa del Carmen for GBP £135 / USD $250 per week.

Opportunities for Extra Dive Training

Pre-departure: GVI has linked up with a UK-based dive organisation to offer a FREE try dive to anyone who signs up on the Mexico expedition.

On the Expedition: The following costs include a 15-25% discount on the rates normally charged by PADI dive centres, and are fully inclusive of training manuals and equipment. Please note that the science and community work will always take priority over any extra dive training.

Extra dive courses are always subject to availability and payment should be made locally, in US$. All courses include all required PADI materials in the cost.