In the Maldives, we are lucky to be surrounded by an abundance of tropical marine life, including five species of sea turtle. Unfortunately, because of threats such as habitat loss, poaching, the illegal pet trade, and injury from ghost net entanglement, most sea turtle species are now endangered.
As part of a local NGO, the Marine Centre works to combat this by rescuing, rehabilitating and ultimately releasing sea turtles back into the wild where they belong (predominantly the green sea turtle and olive ridley sea turtle). Some of the turtles we receive are non-releasable, but function as a good example to raise awareness about the effects of human activities on our marine life. Most of the green turtle hatchlings we receive arrive at the center after being kept illegally as pets, whereas the team rescues most of the olive ridleys after being caught in discarded fishing gear.
As a volunteer, you will be an integral part of our team, working alongside our Marine Biologists to gain practical turtle husbandry skills from cleaning and feeding, to assisting with administrating medical treatment. There is an on-site veterinarian that volunteers work with on most days at the marine center (as well as the marine biologist). Additionally, you will play an important part in raising awareness about marine conservation issues in the Maldives and creating awareness on our island.
This program is perfect for budding conservationists who want to gain practical skills and field experience, or for volunteers who simply love sea turtles and want to interact with them sustainably.
Volunteer Activities
Mornings:
- Prepare food for the turtles
- Collect sea grass in the ocean
- Feed the turtles
- Clean out the tanks
- Turtle scrubbing
- Guide resort guests
Afternoon Activities:
- Take one of our resident turtles for a swim in the ocean
- Snorkelling around the jetty or off the beach near the marine centre
- Fish surveys
- Beach clean ups
- Beach surveys
- Watching sunset at the beach or at a nearby café
- Watching a documentary or playing cards/games
- Enjoy some free time
Evenings
- Card games
- Catch crabs to feed to the turtles
- Film night
- Downtime
Daily tasks may vary depending on the time and duration of your stay, and the number of turtles at the marine center. Saturdays are days off and set aside for fun morning or afternoon excursions arranged by the project staff.
Vet student placement
This program also offers veterinary student placement with more in-depth tasks. Veterinary students may apply of all university years but should still be enrolled in university. Surgical experience is beneficial, but not mandatory. We can provide further information during your application interview.
Community outreach
Even though it may have bright turquoise waters and white sand beaches, Naifaru Island is not a resort. Local island life is very different and reflects the huge wealth disparity in the Maldives. In Naifaru, many issues have arisen because of this disparity. For example, living conditions can be basic and the island’s waste management is very poor. As a result, there is a large amount of litter on the island, as well as incomplete construction projects where money has run out.
The local NGO’s work stems far beyond our marine conservation efforts. As a volunteer, you may also work with the community in many areas to educate, support and campaign for a better Naifaru. Whether it’s improving sports facilities, hosting beach clean ups or protecting the marine environment. This work contributes to a happier and more thriving Naifaru!
Please note: Volunteer activities can change based on the needs of the project. The Marine Conservation Program is available for 2-week durations but we strongly recommend at least 3 weeks to get the full experience. Weather also plays a role in what you will do and bad weather may prevent you from going in the water for several days.
