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Marine Expedition Assistant

location
1 - 2 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Experience hands on marine conservation.
  • Discover the hidden beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and Mallorca.
  • Learn from some of the top marine biologists how you can help protect the oceans.

Highlights

  • Experience hands on marine conservation.
  • Discover the hidden beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and Mallorca.
  • Learn from some of the top marine biologists how you can help protect the oceans.
  • Team up with like minded people that share your passion for the sea.
  • Explore the stunning Tramontana UNESCO heritage site during your free time.

    • Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    The volunteers of the “Oasis Tramuntana expeditions” will have the opportunity to be part of the Alnitak scientific team, collaborating with the artisanal fishermen.

    Our Oasis Programme:

    In 2002 we began implementing NOAA and Stanford University - Tag a Giants vision of ''Animal Oceanographers'' which consists in using highly mobile marine animals as ''oceanographers of opportunity'' integrating their telemetry data in the Integrated Ocean Observation and ...

    About the program

    Our Oasis Programme:

    In 2002 we began implementing NOAA and Stanford University - Tag a Giants vision of ''Animal Oceanographers'' which consists in using highly mobile marine animals as ''oceanographers of opportunity'' integrating their telemetry data in the Integrated Ocean Observation and Forecasting System (IOOS). The results of the modelling of this data can be used to design MPAs (Marine protected areas) and develop management schemes in diverse sectors (energy, fishing, transport, tourism, etc)... to mitigate risks. 

    Volunteers that join us will be working along side some of the worlds top marine biologists and will be actively involved in helping us collect data from these animals as well as helping us monitor the open Ocean for disregarded fishing gear and sick and/or injured Marine life, apart from helping us in active research Volunteers will also be expected to be hands on with other chores such as cooking, cleaning and helping maintain the upkeep of our ''base keep''. Alnitak's volunteer programmes “opens the doors” to the Sea for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. More than 4,000 people from 102 nations have embarked with us in these three decades, directly participating in research and conservation projects.

    Our ''base camp'' since 2024 will be a little Cortijo (Spanish Cottage) Ca'n Canyelles nested in the stunning UNESCO heritage site of the Tramuntana mountain rage it has the capacity to house a max of 6 volunteers + staff.

    Every morning (weather permitting) we will leave from the port of Soller to conduct our research, the town of Seller is one of the most beautiful in Mallorca, it is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, gourmet lovers and a fantastic hideaway option! 

    If the weather is not in our favour our work will be conducted on land.

    During rough seas/windy days we will dedicate time to a variety of chores such as renovating our new home, data entry, and more. We will do our best to live sustainably, acquiring our groceries from the local farmers markets, and breaking up daily chores between the whole team.

    This is a new and exciting type of Alnitak expedition, in which volunteers actively participate in its development and hopefully success in years to come

    Typical day

    Calm sea days

    The perfect days to work at sea. During these days we will try to be in deep water from dawn to dusk (in port by 06:00) on our Rib T/T  Tofte or our Modified artesanal fishing vessel '' El Pasador''. These are productive but also arduous days, in which rest, sun protection and ...

    Typical day

    Calm sea days

    The perfect days to work at sea. During these days we will try to be in deep water from dawn to dusk (in port by 06:00) on our Rib T/T  Tofte or our Modified artesanal fishing vessel '' El Pasador''. These are productive but also arduous days, in which rest, sun protection and hydration are fundamental aspects.

    It is on these days that we hope to accomplish our main objectives and have the most productive encounters with cetaceans, turtles, pelagic fish and seabirds.

    Days of slight - breeze (swell)

    Combine sampling of microplastics and marine debris with experimentation of the prototype aFADs, analyzing the “oasis effect”.
    There will be fewer hours spent at sea.

    Land activities in Ca'n Canyelles:
    a) maintenance work on the farmhouse
    b) construction of furniture and preparation of research equipment
    c) processing of sampling data and images in sea
    d) pruning and burning of the olive grove, harvesting, and manufacturing. e) reparation of dry stone walls
    f) maintenance of the boats

    Windy and or stormy days

    These are when we will NOT be able to go out to sea and we can also focus on the land-based activities or assign one of these days as off time.

    We always try to find a compromise between typical Mediterranean times and Western times, with breakfast

    around 07:00 (days at sea) and 09:00 (days without navigation), a lunch/snack at 11:00, lunch at 13:00 and dinner at 20:00

    Free-time activities

    Even though you will have exciting experiences and, at the same time, help us achieve our goals as an organisation, free time is also essential to perfect your experience in Mallorca. The “Serra de Tramuntana” and its towns are well worth spending a minimum of time enjoying the landscape and ...

    Free-time activities

    Even though you will have exciting experiences and, at the same time, help us achieve our goals as an organisation, free time is also essential to perfect your experience in Mallorca. The “Serra de Tramuntana” and its towns are well worth spending a minimum of time enjoying the landscape and exploring its natural and cultural treasures.

    We will assign one of these days as off time. As stated previously, if we have stormy days/windy days and depending on the duration of the adverse weather conditions, we will focus on the land activities in Ca’n Canyelles but can also assign some time off.

    Alnitak’s team may use this “OFF time” for office work. We are a very small team; therefore, please respect that during this assigned time, the team may need to continue their land-based work.

    We will allocate time for a wrap-up session to discuss the results obtained during our last expedition day.

    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.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    Passion and interest in playing an active role in the conservation of our natural and cultural heritage. Skills of interest (but not necessary)Boat driving license, navigation, carpentry, painting, navigation, photography, video filming, drone flying, camping, star gazing, cooking,..

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 06:00 - 21:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Your contribution will help cover project costs amongst others:

    • Accommodation (7 days- 6 nights)
    • Airport pick up + drop off 
    • Locally sourced organic food  (7 days) 
    • Maintenance and use of research rib inc gasoline, and investigation equipment (7 days)
    • Alnitak/ Ca'n Canyelles Staff (7days)

    Airport Pickup at Palma de Mallorca Airport

    Pick up and drop off is arrange by staff if volunteers need it.

    This is usually a Taxi to the Port of Sóller from Palma de Mallorca airport.

    Accommodation

    We can accommodate up to 6 volunteers in our Ca'n Canyelles cottage, our rooms are small, simple but sweet:

    Room 1: Double bed 

    Room 2: 2 x Single beds

    Room 3: Single bed

    Room 4: double bed

    The rest of the cottage consists of a Kitchen/dining room, bathroom, outdoor seating/dining area & BBQ area and all off this could not be without  our complimentary and very friendly watch-dog!

    Outside we also have an outdoor shower and an outdoor compost toilet which are the primary uses.

    All installations are basic (This is not a luxury cruise)!


    Food & Beverages

    3 meals a day are provided (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

    We do not permit the use of alcohol during research time.

    Drinks usually consist of teas and juices (and fresh spring water of course)!

    We always try our best to provide sustainable local organic products.

    We also cater to those with dietary requirements (celiac disease, diabetes, allergies, vegetarian and vegan...).

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Internet Access

    Sorry, no access at the project site

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) in Palma Mallorca. 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

    Stay tuned for 2026 dates.

    Collection and drop offs can be arranged with staff. 
    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $1,350 per week 1 - 2 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 2 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.

    4.90
    ・
    10 reviews

    Location

    Europe > Southern Europe > Spain > Mallorca

    Meet your project coordinator

    Ric
    10
    reviews
    4.90
    Outstanding
    1990
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Environment  >  Conservation Work in Spain
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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