Overview
Roving Marine Expedition in Mexico and Central America

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef - the world’s second longest reef - passes through the waters of four Caribbean countries. Yet increasingly the reef, which forms a vital part of the coastal ecosystem of each country, is diminishing. This marine conservation expedition takes volunteers to gain science training, master monitoring techniques and perform some research dives in a remote beachside research base in the magnificent Mexican Caribbean; before moving through Guatemala, Honduras and Belize, collecting research on the reef to contribute to its future sustainability. All countries are blessed with amazing sites, ruins and culture, which you can experience on the many side-trips included. All participants should have a minimum diving level of PADI Advanced or equivalent

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A truly unique opportunity to carry out marine research and dive within four great destinations

John Reeves

What Difference Does This Expedition Make?

All the countries you will visit and dive in on this expedition have coral reefs that form a vital part of their coastal ecosystem. The reefs provide food and an income source to many diverse peoples and indigenous groups, but due to increasing populations and a rapid growth of the tourism industry, these coastal areas and habitats are in danger of being degraded beyond a point they can recover from. The research dives you do and the data you obtain will be used to raise awareness of the plight of the reefs and influence use and policy decisions.

Highlights

Doing science and dive training in a magnificent white sand beach location; visiting amazing Mayan ruins in four countries; experiencing the different cultures of the region; being part of a team of like-minded people; diving on pristine reefs; and having the chance to see sharks, turtles, manatees and more across Mexico and Central America!

Skills And Qualifications Received

PADI Coral Reef Research Diver Distinctive Specialty, First Aid & CPR training, Coral reef ecology lectures, Theoretical and in-water fish, coral and invertebrate identification skills, Turtle ecology and monitoring protocol (seasonal), Use of O2 equipment workshop, Diving compressor training workshop with practical experience, Environmental Education, Interpersonal skills


See Requirements And Training page for more information

Location

Your training and the first part of your trip will take place 30kms north of Mahahual in a remote marine beachside base in Mexico. From there you will travel and dive in the Belizean Cays, off the Guatemalan coastal town of Livingstone, and finish in either Roatan or Cayos Cochinos in Honduras.

See Life on the expedition page for more information

Field Conditions

Accommodation will be shared and basic but comfortable, and always in a magnificent location. Running water and electricity (sometimes via small generator for only a few hours) will normally be available. Food will be nutritional and a high-carb diet, to cope with the strenuous nature of the days, and fresh fruit will always be available.

See Life on the expedition page for more information