Imagine living on a tropical island surrounded by turquoise waters, spending your days helping coral reefs recover, and working alongside passionate marine biologists. This program isn’t just volunteering, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a real impact while experiencing the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Maldives.
Our coral reefs are the heart of our island life, supporting both marine biodiversity and the community. By joining us, you’ll be part of meaningful work that helps protect the ocean, empowers local communities, and connects people from around the world.
What will you do?
1. Dive into conservation: Learn coral gardening, take part in reef surveys, and join underwater clean-up dives (Dives against Debris).
2. Support the community: Take part in beach cleanups, school workshops, and sustainability activities.
3. Learn & explore: Gain new marine biology skills, earn specialty dive certifications, and explore hidden corners of the atoll on excursions.
Who will you work with?
1. Dive masters, Marine Biologists & Conservationists who will train and guide you.
2. Local Community Members who are passionate about creating a sustainable future.
3. International Volunteers who are like-minded ocean lovers from all over the world.
What do we expect from you?
Come with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to get involved. You don’t need to be a scientist, just enthusiastic, respectful of local culture, and ready for hands-on work in the sun and sea.
About Us
The Location Naifaru is the main island in Lhaviyani Atoll, situated in the northern Maldives, a popular area due to its abundant marine life. It is the fifth most populous Maldivian island with ~6,000 residents, including Maldivians and immigrant workers from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. During your free time you can relax on beautiful beaches, snorkel the surrounding reefs or immerse yourself in the lively community atmosphere. There are shops selling various general goods from ice-cream and groceries to hardware and tailoring, as well as pharmacies, a hospital, a gym and restaurants serving local and western dishes.
Join our marine conservationists in their efforts to rebuild coral populations at a local house reef, as well as enjoying spending time in one of the most idyllic places in the world. As part of a local NGO, you will be assisting us in our ultimate goal of restoring our house reef. This program is perfect for budding conservationists who want to gain practical skills and field experience, or for volunteers who simply love coral reefs and want to interact with them sustainably.
What to Expect from Us?
- Learn how to restore corals with hands-on experience, helping us expand and care for our shallow coral garden at our beloved house reef.
- Work on both a coral nursery and artificial reef structures, allowing you to experience more types of coral restoration.
- Participate in Coral Identification workshops above & below water.
- Practice coral data collection and monitoring skills.
- Work on an active coral restoration project.
- Join other conservation activities including our weekly Dive Against Debris.
- Gain a new qualification with the Reef Guru Coral Restoration Diver course.
- Option to be certified in PADI Fish ID, Dive Against Debris and Coral Watch specialties.
What is included in the program?
- 24/7 support from our volunteer coordinator.
- Pre-arrival information.
- In-country transportation between Male and Naifaru by domestic flight.
- Shared Accommodation.
- 3 meals per day.
- 1 excursion per week.
- 5-6 in water (snorkeling or diving) sessions every week.
- Reef Guru course (practical dives).
- In-country transportation between Naifaru and Male by domestic flight.
- Certificate of competency.
- Lifetime of memories.
- Discount of 10% if you decide to come again.
What is NOT included?
- International Flights Visas (if required).
- Travel health insurance Dive insurance - mandatory in the Maldives but can be purchased on arrival.
- Snorkel insurance.
- Hotel in Male for late arrivals (approx $90).
- e-Learning and certification costs - volunteers should purchase and complete the Reef Guru Coral Restoration Diver e-Learning (approx £50) before arrival.
- There is also the option to be certified in Fish ID, Dive Against Debris and Coral Watch PADI specialties for an additional $95 per specialty.
- Minimum 18 years old Able to swim and comfortable in the water.
- The ability to work in hot weather Be open minded towards other cultures.
- Be willing to commit yourself to helping our community.
- Bring your own snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel and fins).
Disclaimer: You do not need to already be a diver to take part in the program but will need to complete the PADI Open Water Dive Course at an extra cost in order to join the coral dives. We recommend non-divers come for a minimum of 3 weeks to ensure enough time to partake in the PADI Open Water Dive Course and Coral Restoration Program.
This program is perfect if you love the ocean, care about conservation, and want to give back while creating unforgettable memories. By the end, you’ll not only leave a positive mark on the reefs and community, you’ll also gain new skills, friendships, and a second home in the Maldives.
