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MARINE CONSERVATION PROGRAM 

A MARINE CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE THAT STILL FEELS LIKE AN ADVENTURE

Dive on one of the most incredible reef systems in the world while contributing to ongoing marine research.

This program blends conservation work with the adventure of living and diving in Sodwana Bay.

DURATION

1 - 12 weeks

PRICE

From € 1350

ARRIVAL DAY

Fridays

LOCATION

Sodwana Bay, South Africa

What You’ll Be Doing

This program combines great diving with real conservation work, so you can enjoy every dive while still contributing to meaningful research.

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  • Dive with a purpose: Participants dive five days a week on Sodwana Bay’s reefs, taking part in relaxed drift dives while contributing to a range of marine monitoring projects. Depending on current projects and conditions, this may include monitoring marine species, reef surveys, fish and invertebrate counts, collecting temperature data, and photography-based research. Nudibranch monitoring is also part of our ongoing research.

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  • Learn as you go: You’ll learn how to identify marine species, collect useful observations and data, and contribute to different research projects, with your knowledge and confidence developing naturally over time, no pressure and no tests.

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  • Turn dives into data: After diving, participants take part in easy, guided data sessions, where observations, photographs, and other information collected underwater are recorded and processed together in a relaxed, social setting.

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  • Marine lectures: A series of engaging lectures led by a local zoologist helps you understand what you’re seeing underwater, covering nudibranchs, fish ID, coral reefs, marine life, and conservation.

What You’ll Leave With

Most participants leave with far more than just dive memories.

  • Improved diving confidence and underwater awareness.

  • A stronger understanding of marine species, reef ecology, and conservation.

  • Hands-on experience contributing to long-term marine conservation research.

  • A deeper understanding of how reefs function and why they matter.

  • New friendships and a sense of belonging within the dive and conservation community.

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What's Included

  • Richards Bay airport transfers.

  • Accommodation at our Deep Blue house.

  • Weekly groceries.

  • PADI Open Water if you are not already a qualified diver.

  • Five project dives a week & hard gear rental for dives (cylinder, BCD, regulator & weight belt).

  • Transport to & from the beach for dives as well as around town.

  • Gate fees into the iSimangaliso Wetland Park for dives, as it is a marine protected area.

  • Weekly excursions to view points, Lake Sibaya, Tolla se Gat or our northern beaches.

  • Marine lectures from a local zoologist.

  • 24/7 support from our on-site staff.

Prices

1 Week - € 1350

2 Weeks - € 2150

3 Weeks - € 2970

4 Weeks - € 3750

5 Weeks - € 4490

6 Weeks - € 5180

7 Weeks - € 5920

8 Weeks - € 6610

9 Weeks - € 7270

10 Weeks - € 7850

11 Weeks - € 8410

12 Weeks - € 8920

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“I didn’t know what to expect but what I got was so much more. I wanted adventure and diving, but I also gained confidence, knowledge, and lifelong friends. The team’s passion made every dive and every lecture exciting, and Sodwana will always stay in my heart.”

—  Pia Forrestal

Ready To Join Us Marine Conservation Program
READY TO JOIN US IN SODWANA BAY?

Join us for incredible reef diving, hands-on marine research and a community of ocean lovers.

How Booking Works

1. Send a request​

Tell us your preferred program & arrival dates.

2. Confirm your dates

We'll check availability and email your invoice.

3. Secure your place

Pay your 20% deposit to secure your place.

4. Get ready to dive

Complete your participant form and prepare for your trip.

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