Marine conservation diving expeditions with Innoceana
Are you a certified diver interested in marine conservation? Innoceana is a nonprofit organisation that runs research-based diving expeditions in Costa Rica and, at times, in Spain. Participants learn how to support real ocean science projects while diving in biodiverse tropical waters.
Voluntourism and fees transparency
This is a paid marine conservation expedition, not a free work-exchange. Participants pay an expedition fee (currently around the cost of a 7 day all inclusive dive course) that usually includes accommodation, meals, diving, equipment, local transport and training. Your main contribution is funding Innoceana’s conservation work and assisting with citizen science activities. Always request the latest handbook and price list directly from Innoceana before you apply.
Listing may be outdated: this announcement was originally shared for expeditions in 2019 and 2020. Innoceana and its centers are still active, but expedition dates, locations and prices change regularly. Please use this text as general information only and always check the official website for current programs.
About the expeditions
Innoceana’s marine conservation expeditions usually take place at their conservation and education center in Ojochal, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, with dives around protected areas such as Isla del Caño. Some seasons they also offer trips in the Canary Islands in Spain. Each expedition combines daily dives with theory classes, data collection and community based conservation activities.
Typical activities
- 3D coral mapping and coral health assessments
- Reef and invertebrate monitoring
- Fish and substrate surveys
- Water quality studies and climate change monitoring
- Microplastic sampling on beaches and seabed
- Identification and monitoring of threatened species
- Occasional beach and underwater clean ups
Training and learning
During the expedition you receive structured training in conservation diving techniques. You learn how to collect data underwater, how to apply biology and engineering ideas to marine conservation, and how climate change affects local ecosystems. Most expeditions include several theory sessions, around ten dives focused on research tasks, and additional activities such as a day of reforestation with local communities or visits to nearby marine reserves.
What is included
- Shared accommodation in simple cabins or rooms near the center
- Main meals each day, often with a mostly plant based menu
- Dive equipment and boat dives with professional instructors
- Conservation classes and materials
- Local transport related to the program
- Innoceana marine conservation certifications at the end of the course
Requirements
- Minimum Open Water Diver certification or equivalent
- Valid dive and travel insurance
- Good general health and comfort in the water
- Motivation to learn, follow safety rules and support conservation science
Free time and extras
Depending on the exact expedition, participants may also enjoy optional yoga or meditation sessions, short hikes, and free time to explore the nearby jungle or beaches. Some trips include a day trip to national parks or other natural attractions. Details change by season and by package, so ask Innoceana for the current program.
Important note
There is no salary or work-for-board arrangement. These expeditions are closer to an educational course or eco-tourism package with a strong conservation focus. If you are looking for a classic volunteer exchange with no fees, you may prefer to explore other listings on Voluntouring.
Contact details
For updated dates, fees and expedition handbooks, contact Innoceana directly.
Website: innoceana.org
Email (expeditions): expediciones AT innoceana DOT org
Email (contact person, example): lauravano AT innoceana DOT org
Facebook: facebook.com/innoceana
Instagram: @innoceana
Motto: No oceans, no future.
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