Train on critical marine conservation projects on the Caribbean coast of Mexico
Program Overview
Train on critical marine conservation projects on the Caribbean coast of Mexico in the Yucatan Peninsula.
The Internship begins with our Marine conservation expedition. You will live and work with a GVI research team and undergo an extensive training program, taking your diving skills through to advanced level and gaining an intimate knowledge of the marine ecosystem. This knowledge will be put to practice while you work as part of a team to compile crucial research on coral reef and fish species.
On completion of the expedition you will proceed to complete your PADI Dive Master course leading to a work placement with a local dive centre. This exciting opportunity will provide practical experience in the dive industry as you assist with daily operations.
Life on the Program
During your expedition phase you will live on one of GVI’s research bases in the stunning Yucatan Peninsula. Working days can be long and start early. Diving days begin with a team boat push followed by a short journey to one of the research dive sites. Other days may involve training on base, community days, beach cleans and bird surveys. Diving is weather dependent although we aim for everyone to dive 5 days a week with 1 or 2 dives or snorkels a day.
Days are rounded off with evening debriefs, followed by dinner and time to relax, take in a beautiful sunset and share stories.
Weekends provide free time with many exciting options easily available including additional diving, beautiful beaches and Mayan ruins.
Program Details
Our work on the expedition phase of this Internship aims to assess the health of the Mesoamerican barrier reef system. We focus on Data collection for Fish and Coral species. Our goal is to increase local and global awareness of Marine issues and provide data used for policy-making decisions.
During this Internship you will earn recognised qualifications including:
- PADI Coral Reef Research Diver Distinctive Specialty
- PADI Advanced Open Water
- PADI Rescue Diver certifications
- PADI Dive Master certifications
- First Aid & CPR training (Emergency First Response Certification)
- Biological Survey Techniques
Volunteer Testimonials
Program Details
Build Your Program
What's Included
- Pre-departure support and discounted services
- 24-hour emergency phone
- Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)
- Arrival orientation
- Long term experienced staff
- Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared)
- All meals (unless otherwise stated in field manuals)
- Welcome meeting
- Location orientation
- All necessary project training by experienced staff
- All necessary project equipment and materials
- 24-hour in-country support
- An internationally recognised qualification in Biological Survey Techniques
- An internationally recognised qualification in Team Leading
- Transfer to base location
- Live and work in a protected reserve surveying deserted reefs under GVI's research permit
- PADI Advanced Open Water
- PADI Coral Reef Research Diver Distinctive Speciality
- First Aid & CPR training and certification
- Coral reef ecology
- Introduction to TEFL
- Community work workshop
- Use of O2 equipment workshop
- Diving compressor training workshop
- PADI Rescue Diver and PADI Dive Master certifications (not including PADI professional fees)
- Weekly evaulation with your mentor
- Final evaluation
- Certification and summary of training and experience received
- Confidential professional reference
- Work placement (if successful on training period)
What's Not Included
- Flights
- Medical and travel insurance
- Visa costs
- Personal kit
- Additional drinks and gratuities
- Extra local excursions
- International and domestic airport taxes
- PADI Open Water
