Restoration is where monitoring becomes action. At Ankay, our restoration program builds on the same ecological foundations and data-driven methodology as our Conservation Programs, but moves beyond surveying to active reef intervention. Training combines focused theory with intensive in-water practice, delivered in small groups to ensure accuracy, safety, and ecological integrity.
After the initial training phase, day-to-day work revolves around coral nursery management and structured restoration monitoring. Every action is recorded, evaluated, and fed back into our long-term dataset to guide future restoration decisions.
What can volunteers expect?
You will learn how active reef restoration is designed and executed, from coral propagation to outplanting. This includes nursery maintenance, fragment handling, artificial reef creation and attachment techniques — all adapted to local reef conditions and ecological constraints.
You will develop skills to assess restoration outcomes. This includes survival and growth assessments, health indicators, photo-documentation, and understanding how data is used to evaluate effectiveness and guide adaptive management.
Do the volunteers have to bring special equipment?
If you have your own dive equipment, you are free to bring it, but we also have all the equipment necessary.
Duration
The minimum stay is one week for certified divers with 20+ registered dives.
For divers with less registered dives, we recommend a 2 week program
Non-certified divers: a 3-week program is recommended to allow time for training, experience-building, and meaningful contribution
Dive Sites & Conditions
Bocas del Toro offers ideal diving conditions year-round:
Marine life sightings throughout the year include sharks, rays, octopus, squid, crabs, shrimp, nudibranchs, and a wide variety of Caribbean reef fish.
Location
Our center is located on Solarte Island, part of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago in Panama. Nestled in lush jungle surroundings and just 80 meters from the ocean, Ankay offers a unique blend of nature and comfort.
We are only a 10-minute boat ride from the main island (Isla Colón), where you’ll find a wide selection of restaurants, supermarkets, and nightlife. This balance allows you to enjoy the tranquility of a remote setting while remaining close to town amenities.
In December 2019, Bocas del Toro was designated a Hope Spot by Mission Blue. The region hosts exceptional marine biodiversity, including sharks, sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, over 120 sponge species, three species of mangroves, and a rich variety of Caribbean corals.
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