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Excellent 4.89rating (22)
  • Life Below Water

Marine Conservation Diving

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Dive into Mediterranean waters to actively restore marine ecosystems and remove underwater debris.
  • Earn internationally recognized CMAS diving certifications while contributing to real conservation efforts.
  • Live in a vibrant NGO community apartment with international volunteers who share your passion.

Highlights

  • Dive into Mediterranean waters to actively restore marine ecosystems and remove underwater debris.
  • Earn internationally recognized CMAS diving certifications while contributing to real conservation efforts.
  • Live in a vibrant NGO community apartment with international volunteers who share your passion.
  • Explore Barcelona's authentic neighborhoods and beaches during free weekends with new friends.
  • Gain hands-on scientific experience collecting biodiversity data to protect local marine life.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Join scuba diving conservation efforts in Barcelona! Protect Mediterranean ecosystems, earn CMAS certifications, and explore the coast with international volunteers.

    Join a non-profit diving initiative in Barcelona and contribute to the protection of Mediterranean marine ecosystems! As an ocean conservation volunteer, you'll use and improve your scuba diving skills while actively restoring the natural state of the Catalonian coast.

    Location & Setting
    Based in ...

    About the program

    Join a non-profit diving initiative in Barcelona and contribute to the protection of Mediterranean marine ecosystems! As an ocean conservation volunteer, you'll use and improve your scuba diving skills while actively restoring the natural state of the Catalonian coast.

    Location & Setting
    Based in Barcelona city, you'll dive into the Mediterranean waters to protect the diverse marine life that depends on healthy ecosystems. The project operates along the Barcelona coast, where volunteers engage in hands-on conservation tasks just minutes from the city center.

    Who You'll Work With
    You'll join a group of 8 to 14 international voluntrainees, living and working together alongside local coordinators from the Catalan federation of scuba diving. The team welcomes divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, creating a supportive environment for learning and impact.

    Daily Tasks & Impact
    Volunteers work 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with weekends free to explore Barcelona. Tasks vary by season but include:

    • Cleaning the seabed to reduce marine debris using diving equipment and nets
    • Logging information on collected trash and removing living organisms before returning them to the sea
    • Documenting fish and invertebrate species as part of scientific research projects
    • Assessing biodiversity in ecosystems, including areas transformed from former industrial sites
    • Participating in survey dives, identification dives, and underwater photography

    During summer, volunteers may also help with environmental workshops for children in summer camps, sharing knowledge about the sea and conservation.

    Requirements & Recommendations

    • Minimum age: 18 (16-17 with parental authorization). Families with children aged 14+ are welcome.

    • Non-certified divers should sign up for at least two weeks to participate in conservation dives.

    • The program includes all dive equipment except computers. Advanced divers joining optional night or deep dives must bring their own dive light/torch.

    • If an instructor judges a volunteer unfit to dive (due to illness, fatigue, lack of focus, or hangover), the dive will not proceed without reimbursement.

    Certification & Recognition
    We are the first NGO in Spain authorized to homologate your voluntraining experience with an official diploma delivered by the Spanish Government, recognizing your contribution to marine conservation.

    Typical day

    Detailed Daily Schedule

    Day 0 – Sunday: Arrival
    Arrive at Barcelona International Airport "El Prat" and make your way to the NGO accommodation, where you'll settle in and meet other volunteers.

    Day 1 – Monday

    • 07:30 Prepare and enjoy a morning snack of coffee and fruit on your own at the NGO ...

    Typical day

    Detailed Daily Schedule

    Day 0 – Sunday: Arrival
    Arrive at Barcelona International Airport "El Prat" and make your way to the NGO accommodation, where you'll settle in and meet other volunteers.

    Day 1 – Monday

    • 07:30 Prepare and enjoy a morning snack of coffee and fruit on your own at the NGO accommodation

    • 08:30 Take the metro and walk to the Scuba Diving Center

    • 09:30 Training and dive preparation begins

    • 10:30 First dive of the week – non-divers begin SSI Open Water training

    • Afternoon: Orientation and settling into the program rhythm

    Day 2 – Tuesday

    • 07:30 Prepare and eat breakfast on your own at the NGO accommodation

    • 09:30 Training and dive preparation at the diving center

    • 10:30 Dive to observe local underwater biodiversity

    • 11:30 Training session on material organization and maintenance

    • 12:30–13:30 Lunch (can be prepared on-site or back at the accommodation)

    • Afternoon Return by metro to the NGO for briefing, followed by 2 hours of community work

    • 16:30 End of shift

    Day 3 – Wednesday

    • 07:30 Morning breakfast routine at the NGO accommodation

    • 09:30 Training and dive preparation

    • 10:30 Dive observing local underwater biodiversity

    • 11:30 Material organization and maintenance training

    • Following: Training on local ecosystem balance and resilience

    • 12:30–13:30 Lunch (on-site or at home)

    • Afternoon Return by metro for briefing + 2 hours of community work

    • 16:30 End of shift

    Day 4 – Thursday

    • 07:30 Morning routine

    • 09:30 Training and dive preparation

    • 10:30 Conservation dive: clean the sea without disturbing marine life

    • 11:30 Material organization and maintenance training

    • Following: Final guidelines review for Friday's certification

    • Afternoon Return by metro for 2 hours of community work

    • 16:30 End of shift

    Day 5 – Friday

    • 07:30 Morning routine

    • 09:30 Training and dive preparation

    • 10:30 Final dive and certification exam

    • Following: Student-divers complete training and receive certification

    • Afternoon Return by metro, then write an article about the mission worked on during the week

    • 16:30 End of shift

    Days 6–7: Saturday & Sunday
    Free weekends to explore Barcelona with your fellow volunteers!

    Important Notes

    • Non-certified divers should sign up for at least two weeks to participate in conservation dives

    • If an instructor judges a volunteer unfit to dive (due to illness, fatigue, lack of focus, etc.), the dive will not proceed without reimbursement

    • All dive equipment is included except computers

    • Advanced divers joining optional night or deep dives must bring their own dive light/torch

    • Volunteers work 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday

    Free-time activities

    Free Time Activities in Barcelona

    During your free weekends, you'll have endless opportunities to explore Barcelona and the surrounding region. Here are just a few ways to make the most of your time off:

    Explore Barcelona's Iconic Landmarks
    Visit Gaudí's masterpieces including the breathtaking Sagrada ...

    Free-time activities

    Free Time Activities in Barcelona

    During your free weekends, you'll have endless opportunities to explore Barcelona and the surrounding region. Here are just a few ways to make the most of your time off:

    Explore Barcelona's Iconic Landmarks
    Visit Gaudí's masterpieces including the breathtaking Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. Wander through the Gothic Quarter's narrow medieval streets, discover hidden plazas, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of La Rambla.

    Relax by the Sea
    Barcelona's beaches, Barceloneta, Bogatell, and Mar Bella, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or beach volleyball. Take a stroll along the Port Vell waterfront or enjoy sunset drinks at a beachfront chiringuito.

    Discover Local Culture
    Immerse yourself in Catalan culture at the Picasso Museum, Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA), or the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC). Experience authentic flamenco shows, visit the magical Font Màgica fountain, or explore the colorful La Boqueria market.

    Food & Nightlife
    Taste your way through Catalan cuisine with tapas, paella, and pintxos at local bars. Experience Barcelona's legendary nightlife in neighborhoods like El Born, Gràcia, and Eixample, from cozy wine bars to bustling clubs.

    Day Trips Beyond Barcelona
    With excellent transport connections, you can easily explore further afield:

    • Montserrat: A stunning mountain monastery just one hour away

    • Costa Brava: Beautiful coastal towns like Cadaqués, Tossa de Mar, and Platja d'Aro

    • Girona: A charming medieval city with a well-preserved Jewish quarter

    • Tarragona: Ancient Roman ruins and beaches just south of Barcelona

    • Sitges: A picturesque coastal town known for its beaches and vibrant atmosphere

    Outdoor Adventures
    Hike in Collserola Natural Park, just behind the city, for incredible views. Try water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing along the coast. Join fellow volunteers for cycling tours or mountain excursions.

    Whatever your interests, Barcelona offers something for everyone, making your free time an adventure in itself!

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 16 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

    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 09:30 - 16:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Your program fees cover a wide range of inclusions designed to make your volunteer experience comfortable, enriching, and impact-driven. Below is a detailed breakdown of what's included and how your contribution is used.

    What's Included

    Accommodation

    Food

    Workshops & Activities

    • Free access to all NGO workshops including:

      • Climbing excursions

      • Yoga and meditation sessions

      • Martial arts classes

      • Spanish, English, and Catalan language classes

    • Videos: Martial Arts Class, Climbing Excursion, Cacao Ceremony, Open Mic

    Orientation & Support

    • Pre-arrival interview with a coordinator

    • On-site mentor to help with practical situations

    • Neighborhood and city guide with recommendations for restaurants, bars, and local highlights

    Laundry

    • Free use of washing machine and dryer

    Diving Equipment

    • All dive equipment included (except computers)

    • Note: Advanced divers joining optional night or deep dives must bring their own dive light/torch

    What's Not Included

    • Flights to Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)

    • Visa fees (if required)

    • Travel insurance

    • Personal transport card (metro/bus)

    • Personal expenses and souvenirs

    How Your Fees Make an Impact

    30% of your program fees are directly gifted to support long-term marine conservation projects in the Mediterranean. This means your contribution goes beyond your personal experience, you're actively funding the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems for years to come.

    Airport Pickup at Barcelona-El Prat Airport

    Upon arrival, we will pick you up at the airport to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

    Accommodation

    • Shared rooms in our NGO hostel (approx. 55 minutes from the project) or in two apartments located 30–45 minutes away

    • Rooms feature 2 to 5 bunk-beds, creating a community atmosphere with fellow volunteers

    • Single room upgrade available for an extra fee, subject to availability and season

    Food & Beverages

    • All meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus snacks

    • Mostly vegetarian with occasional meat options

    • Please notify us in advance of any food allergies or intolerances

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) in Barcelona. We assist you to find cheap flights to Spain. 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 Spain provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Starts every Sunday! We are able to host volunteers the whole year. 

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

    Program Fees

    $880 per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    2 - 24 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

    4.89
    ・
    22 reviews

    Location

    Europe > Southern Europe > Spain > Barcelona

    Meet your project coordinator

    Felipe
    22
    reviews
    4.89
    Excellent
    2023
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English
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    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Environment  >  Marine Conservation in Spain
    Contact Felipe
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    Portuguese, Spanish, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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