Login

Select travel dates to see prices

Good 4.18rating (74)

Marine Biology Research Internship

location
4 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Directly contribute to long-term studies and a better understanding of marine ecosystems
  • Help with documentation and photo/video collection during activities
  • Contribute to the monitoring and evaluation process

Highlights

  • Directly contribute to long-term studies and a better understanding of marine ecosystems
  • Help with documentation and photo/video collection during activities
  • Contribute to the monitoring and evaluation process
  • Meet other international interns and volunteers and share incredibles memories
  • Discover the wonders of the Albufeira

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    50+

    About the program

    Support marine conservation in the heart of the Algarve by joining a specialized research internship!

    Support marine conservation in the heart of the Algarve by joining a specialized research internship!

    Located along the stunning Portuguese coast, this program is dedicated to the ongoing monitoring of cetaceans dolphins and whales and other marine fauna.

    Marine ...

    About the program

    Support marine conservation in the heart of the Algarve by joining a specialized research internship!

    Located along the stunning Portuguese coast, this program is dedicated to the ongoing monitoring of cetaceans dolphins and whales and other marine fauna.

    Marine research projects often operate with limited human resources, while requiring continuous monitoring efforts both at sea and on land. The demanding nature of fieldwork, combined with data processing and educational responsibilities, can place significant pressure on the core research team, so there is a strong need for additional support from motivated participants who can assist with observation tasks, data collection, and routine research activities under supervision, helping to ensure continuity in monitoring efforts and contributing to ongoing marine conservation projects.


    Learning outcomes:

    • Develop the ability to observe and identify marine wildlife in natural environments through both land-based and boat-based monitoring activities.
    • Gain practical experience in scientific fieldwork by supporting data collection, including sightings registration, behavioral observations, and GPS tracking.
    • Strengthen competencies in marine research methodologies and scientific monitoring techniques used in conservation projects.
    • Improve analytical and organizational skills through supervised research support tasks and basic data analysis.
    • Increase understanding of marine biodiversity, marine fauna, and key conservation challenges through theoretical learning sessions.
    • Learn to use technical tools and systems such as databases, GPS information, and photo-identification methods for managing research data.
    • Enhance teamwork, communication, and responsibility skills by collaborating with researchers and field teams in real working conditions.
    • Foster environmental awareness and active participation in marine conservation through direct involvement in research and ecosystem protection activities.

     

    Ready to Help?


    Typical day

    Regular Tasks: Interns will engage in a variety of tasks designed to provide a comprehensive experience and contribute to the success of the project

    • Providing logistical support and monitoring activities
    • Face working in real ocean conditions while learning methodological skills.
    • Supporting ...

    Typical day

    Regular Tasks: Interns will engage in a variety of tasks designed to provide a comprehensive experience and contribute to the success of the project

    • Providing logistical support and monitoring activities
    • Face working in real ocean conditions while learning methodological skills.
    • Supporting day-to-day project activities (e.g., scheduling, follow-ups)
    • Help ensure continuity in monitoring efforts across varying sea conditions.
    • Conducting benchmarking research
    • Contributing to the monitoring and evaluation process
    • Helping with documentation and photo/video collection during activities
    • Assisting with organizing events, meetings, and campaigns
    • Participating in team meetings and sharing perspectives
    • Representing the NGO in informal meetings or local partner events
    • Engaging in multicultural environments
    • Directly contribute to long-term studies and a better understanding of marine ecosystems

    Your internship is a full-time internship.Typically working hours are from 9:00 -17:00 or 10:00 - 18:00. The exact schedule is subject to change.



    Free-time activities

    Albufeira was once a fishing village, but now it's a popular vacation destination with sandy beaches and a lively nightlife district. You can enjoy diving excursions, dolphin-watching tours and boat trips. Use your free time to stroll through the historic Old Town, explore the natural coastal caves ...

    Free-time activities

    Albufeira was once a fishing village, but now it's a popular vacation destination with sandy beaches and a lively nightlife district. You can enjoy diving excursions, dolphin-watching tours and boat trips. Use your free time to stroll through the historic Old Town, explore the natural coastal caves and relax on the gorgeous beaches!

    We are here to make your leisure time in Portugal truly unforgettable – a journey of discovery, excitement, relaxation and sustainable and responsible traveling awaits!


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (intermediate level)

    Education Requirements

    Marine Biology at University level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    criminal background check

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 - 18:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    What’s included?


    • Stay in a socially impactful house
    • Access to a common room and free Wi-Fi!
    • Three meals a day – veggie and  vegan options available upon request
    • Orientation on arrival: culture, program details, and safety
    • Local tips
    • We’ll hook you up with an impactful non-profit project and handle the coordination
    • Ongoing support and regular meetings with ImpacTrip staff
    • Certificate at the end of the internship
    • 24/7 emergency support, just in case

    Accommodation

    You will stay in a shared room with other interns, research assistants and/or the NGO team with mixed (male and female) sleeping arrangements and shared bathroom facilities. The accommodation is simple, practical, and designed to host groups of interns comfortably while encouraging a team environment and shared experience.

    All meals are included and prepared by the organization. The NGO is able to accommodate participants with food allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary restrictions, provided this information is shared in advance.

    You can also use the kitchen to cook by yourself. Please remember to cleaning everything used afterwards.



    Food & Beverages

    • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) are included in the program fees
    • Veggie and vegan options are available upon request

    Lunch and Dinner will include local staples such as fish and chicken, as well as rice, pasta, vegetables and salad.

    • The meals are prepared daily by professional cooks who use fresh local ingredients to offer volunteers the best of typical Portuguese dishes

    Portuguese food is delicious and during your time, you will be sure to receive some incredible treats.

    • Volunteers will have access to a shared kitchen that they can use to cook!
    • Breakfast is self-served at the accommodation and generally includes tea, coffee, bread, cheese, ham, spreads, cereal, yogurt and fruit



    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Faro Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Faro Airport (FAO) in Faro. We assist you to find cheap flights to Portugal. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Portugal provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Portugal you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Portugal. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    This program starts every Sunday.

    Your first Monday will start with a breakfast followed by an orientation meeting where you will get all the information you need for your time in Albufeira. 


    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $714 per week 4 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.2
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2025
    I ended up staying in the program for a week. I loved working with the cats and the people there, who were all really sweet. The program ...
    2024
    I recommend this experience to absolutely anyone, it was the best of my life. The first week my placement was in a Skatepark in Cascais, so ...
    Alba Gala Torrero

    Child & Youth Supporter

    2024
    Stayed 2 weeks in October 2024. Warm welcomed by a dynamic and enthusiastic team. Clear and detailed information provided. Good location, ...
    Eliane BURLAC

    Child & Youth Supporter

    2024
    This stay in Barcelona was amazing. To be able to discover a city and to work at the same time is a great thing for me. I worked in a cat ...

    Location


    Meet your project coordinator

    Cristiana
    74
    reviews
    4.18
    Good
    2015
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Contact Cristiana
      Good response rate
    Portuguese, Spanish, English

    Most volunteers ask about


    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Cristiana
    Please don't share personal contact details for your privacy

    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

    Complete Support for Every Volunteer

    This helps us run our platform and offer essential services like Comprehensive Support, Refund Guarantee, Flex Option without rebooking costs, and Price-Guarantee. This includes VAT.

    Price details