Whale Shark & ​​Marine Conservation Project - Belize Placencia

Reef Conservation International - Volunteer for Whale Shark & Marine Conservation Project in Belize Placencia

Welcome to Reef Conservation International (ReefCI), your gateway to thrilling marine conservation experiences in the stunning setting of Belize Placencia. Our unique projects allow you to swim with awe-inspiring whale sharks, combat invasive lionfish, and actively contribute to the protection of vibrant coral reefs. Located on a private Caribbean island within the Belize Barrier Reef, we offer both incredible diving opportunities and meaningful conservation work. Join us and make a real difference in preserving the marine ecosystem!

What Can You Expect?

During your stay with ReefCI, each day offers a diverse range of activities, including:

1. Invasive Lionfish: Engage in spearfishing to remove the destructive invasive lionfish, which threatens native coral reef ecosystems.

2. Marine Conservation Education: Learn about coral reefs and marine animals while discovering how we can safeguard our oceans and reefs.

3. Whale Shark Monitoring (if spotted): Dive alongside the largest fish in the ocean and help record sightings to advance conservation efforts.

4. Biodiversity Identification Dives: Participate in identification dives focused on fish, sea turtles, sharks, invertebrates, and coral to deepen your understanding of reef ecosystems.

5. Beach Clean-ups: Contribute to our weekly efforts to remove trash and plastic from the islands of the Belize Barrier Reef.

Please note that the specific activities you partake in may vary depending on the season and length of your stay, but you're likely to experience most of them.

Please Note: Whale Shark Sightings Not Guaranteed

While we cannot guarantee whale shark sightings, we assure you of an incredible experience on our enchanting island. Our NGO/non-profit's work is meaningful and makes a genuine impact on the reef, with volunteers playing a significant role.

Scuba Certification and Diving with ReefCI

Our volunteer trips cater to divers of all levels, from novices to experienced individuals. If you're not certified, worry not – many of our volunteers come to the island to learn how to dive. For those looking to advance their dive credentials, our island offers an ideal setting with calm, clear waters and minimal currents. You can swap the traditional cold swimming pool and mundane classroom for the warm Caribbean Sea and a classroom beneath palm trees.

We provide various dive courses to enhance your scuba skills and marine conservation knowledge while volunteering on the island. Here are the PADI certification courses we offer, along with their approximate durations and prices:

PADI Certification Courses Offered on the Island

• Open Water Certification – $225 USD (3 days)*
• Advanced Open Water Certification – $275 USD (3 days)*
• Rescue Diver Certification – $325 USD (1 week)*
• Divemaster Certification – $750 USD (4-week minimum stay)*

PADI Specialty Certification Courses Offered on the Island

(One must be open water certified before taking any PADI specialty courses)

PADI Specialties with a Marine Conservation Focus

• Coral Reef Conservation – $175 USD (1 day)
• Fish Identification – $175 USD (2 days)
• Invasive Lionfish – $175 USD (2 days)
• Shark Conservation – $175 USD (2 days)
• Underwater Naturalist – $175 USD (2 days)

PADI Specialties with a Diving Skills Focus

• Deep Diver – $175 USD (3 days)*
• Emergency First Response – $175 USD (1 day)*
• Underwater Navigator – $175 USD (3 days)*
• Underwater Photographer – $250 USD (2 days)*

*Please Note: The PADI Open Water, Advanced, Rescue, Divemaster, Deep Diver, Emergency First Response, Underwater Navigator, and Underwater Photographer courses require PADI eLearning prior to arrival. All other courses do NOT require PADI eLearning before arrival. You must be a fully certified open water diver before taking any PADI specialty courses.

Experience More on the Island

When you're not diving, enjoy an array of activities on the island, including stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, island fishing, conservation activities like dissections and data collection, volleyball, badminton, delectable cuisine, and plenty of hammock time. You can also further your dive training with optional PADI courses.

Embrace the opportunity to make a lasting impact on marine conservation while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Belize Placencia. Join Reef Conservation International today and be part of something truly extraordinary.