By joining our sea turtle conservation program in the Maldives, you’ll get hands-on experience working alongside marine biologists at the Maldives’ first floating marine Centre, helping to protect and rehabilitate sick and injured turtles. Connect with like-minded individuals and make a real impact on marine conservation.
Five of the seven sea turtle species in the world can be found in the Maldives – green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, olive ridley turtles, loggerhead turtles and leatherback turtles!
These charming marine animals are an essential part of our ocean’s delicate ecosystem, yet they continue to face challenges which threaten their survival, like habitat loss, poaching, injury from ghost net entanglement and boat strikes as well as the illegal pet trade.
Working at our floating marine Centre and land conservation Centre alongside experienced marine biologists, you will feed and care for resident turtles, with the goal of rehabilitating and ultimately releasing them back into the ocean where they belong.
The program
The unique floating marine centre is the first of its kind in the Maldives, providing an exciting opportunity for future conservationists to gain career experience in the field. This floating marine centre is 5 metres deep and 9 metres wide, giving the turtles enough room to move around. It allows our vet and marine biologists to monitor and rehabilitate turtles in a natural environment, which is less disruptive to their healing process and provides a more enriching experience.
You’ll snorkel out to this floating centre with our team of marine biologists as they care for resident sea turtles, taking them on rehabilitation ocean swims and engaging in activities that allow the turtles to exercise their minds and bodies.
At our marine centre on land, you will assist in activities such as sweeping and bleaching tanks. On most days you’ll also have the chance to work alongside our on-site veterinarian, watching and learning about the administration of medical treatment to sick and injured turtles.
Location
While participating in this program, you’ll live and work alongside the warm and welcoming residents of Naifaru Island.
Situated north of Male, Naifaru is the fifth most populated island in the Maldives and the capital of the Lhaviyani Atoll. This lively community is home to over 5,000 residents and is only a short walk away from the volunteer house in the village where you will stay. This immersive experience offers a taste of authentic island life.
You’ll have easy access to the project site and can explore the bustling town, grabbing a coffee at a local restaurant while soaking in the ocean view.
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