Portugal Dive Program
Volunteer in Portugal on this ambitious dive program focused on conserving the Atlantic Ocean marine environment!
Based in Lisbon this Marine Conservation program is perfect for those who love the ocean environment and its marine inhabitants. Volunteers are involved in a variety of conservation efforts focused on the protection of the marine ecosystem in the South Coast of Portugal. As well as diving volunteers will learn about the marine ecosystem and how to protect it and will assist with education initiatives on marine preservation in the local community.
First time divers and experienced divers alike are welcomed and the program will be tailored to suit from Open Water Dive Certification to more advanced courses. Participants are supervised by an experienced diver and will receive comprehensive training on dive techniques and the marine ecosystem.
This program is perfect for those with a passion for marine conservation and the desire to learn to dive or build on existing dive skills.
Goals of this Project:
- Preserve ocean environments
- Restore the natural state of the marine ecosystem
- Gather information on marine pollutants
- Observe and record fish species and numbers
- Enable inter-cultural exchange and develop an understanding of the Atlantic Ocean ecosystem
How You Can Help
Volunteers begin this exciting program by completing their dive certification before using their new-found skills off the southern coast of Portugal.
Dives take place in the open ocean, near the coast, where rubbish is often discarded by fishermen. Connections with local fishermen are fostered with the aim of educating about the harmful effects of polluting the marine environment. Volunteers will also assist with beach and marina clean-ups and take part in small group tutorials on the ecosystem, provided by local instructors.
Volunteers on this project are part of a worldwide movement of passionate people dealing with the global challenge of litter and the impact human development is having on the marine environment. All efforts on the project work towards the vision of healthier oceans, thriving ecosystems and a clean coastline.
Volunteers can expect to undertake the following:
- Complete a certified scuba diving course
- Assist in cleaning and preserving ocean waters
- Record information on items collected
- Observe and identify fish species
- Learn about the marine ecosystem
- Build connections and share experiences between local and international volunteers.
Requirements
Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to give their time and energy to help protect the natural environment of Portugal's Southern Coastline. This 'hands-on' project is best suited to those who are either pursuing a career in conservation/environmental studies, or who simply wish to explore an interest in this field.
It is a dive course requirement that participants can swim 200 metres or snorkel 300 metres and tread water/float for 10 minutes. All participants must provide a 'fit to dive' certification from their doctor.
Beyond this the project is open to all and does not require participants to have specific education, qualifications or experience, as you will be shown everything you need to know by your local project leader. Importantly though, all applicants must first and foremost have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Medical Qualification
- Passport
- Vaccination Certificate
Project Location
Portugal's capital city of Lisbon is characterized by its seven hills, topped by miradouros or viewing terraces cleverly positioned to best capture the stupendous views across pastel coloured buildings, ancient ruins, dove white cathedrals and out over the Tagus Estuary (Rio Tejos).
History abounds as you would expect from one of Europe's oldest settlements and soars from the hilltops in the case of São Jorge Castle or is carved out of the ground as with the Roman excavations at the Museu do Teatro Romano. Simply meandering through the cobbled streets (quiet during the day and alive with revelry at night) steeps the visitor in the culture and history of this place.
Food is king here and relaxing with a beverage and a plate of delicious local fare is rich reward for all that hard work volunteering and exploring!
Start Dates & Duration
This project has arrivals on SUNDAYS. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 4 weeks.
Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
The local team meet volunteers on arrival into Lisbon and transport is provided to the hostel to settle in.
On Monday a comprehensive orientation session takes place to cover the culture and customs, language basics, safety guidelines and practical information as well as an overview of the programs and volunteer experience. A 2-hour responsible guided city tour is also included - perfect for getting to know Lisbon and meeting fellow volunteers and local staff.
- Arrival Day: SUNDAY
- Departure Day: SATURDAY
- Arrival Airport: Humberto Delgado International Airport, Lisbon (code LIS)
Accommodation & Meals
Volunteers are accommodated at two different locations, depending on the dates of their placement.
Volunteers on this project between the months of October - May are accommodated in a sustainable and socially responsible hostel in Lisbon. Rooms are dormitory style and split by gender (private room upgrades available) with shared bathroom facilities.
The hostel is well equipped for a comfortable and enjoyable stay including free Wi-fi, roomy living area, gardens, pool and outdoor areas. There's even an activities room offering a free yoga class once a week and Portuguese lessons can be arranged onsite. Plenty to keep you busy!
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Linen and towels are included, laundry services are available and 3 meals a day are provided at the hostel so it's a veritable home away from home!
Volunteers on this project between the Summer months of June - September are accommodated in a volunteer beach house in Estoril, and is just a 5 minute walk from the beach, and a 20 minute train ride from the center of Lisbon.
The beach house has 10 shared rooms, which are split by gender and shared bathroom facilities. There is an amazing outdoor terrace and a fully equipped kitchen.
Meals are provided, and WiFi is available.
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Fees
That’s just USD 191 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.
Additional Info
Included : All diving equipment necessary, SSI diving classes and instructors.