Our partner is a non-profit research organisation situated in Plettenberg Bay in the picturesque Garden Route. The Centre has run extensive mammal research programmes in Southern Africa and has many international publications. The ”extra-hands” from their volunteer programme has helped fund research since 2002.

YOU get hands-on experience in the everyday running of a research organisation. Volunteers are required to “muck-in”” on all activities from the mundane through to the spectacular.

On-going research projects involve monitoring the occurrence, movements, numbers and habitat of Bottlenose and Humpback Dolphin in the area. Researching the population status and diet of the Cape Fur Seals. And land-based studies on the migratory routes of Humpback Whales and the daily movements of other cetaceans in the area.

There are also opportunistic studies involving Killer and Southern Right Whales when they visiting the bay. Field-work studies are project and weather dependant. When not at sea or in the field there is plenty of office work and data capturing to keep you busy. Some of which may be laborious but vital in the study of marine science.

Volunteers also have the opportunity to help out at the local Seabird Rehabilitation Centre when injured or oiled birds come in. While occasional whale, dolphin, seal and shark strandings provide valuable post-mortem information. Or YOU may get involved in educational activities promoting awareness and conservation in schools and communities.

Limited opportunities also arise to accompany commercial tour boats taking photographs and helping out the tour guides.

Volunteer opportunities are limited to a maximum of 6 people at any one time.

YOUR donation included in the project fee will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. On your return home you may continue to support the project with on-going donations directly into the projects account.