Overview

We are Bali Diving Academy and we are hosting the Marine Protected Area Project – Bali.

We propose an internship which is a volunteer opportunity aiming at collecting a maximum of marine data in the Protected Marine Area of Nusa Penida but also at giving to the trainee a solid foundation in applied marine biology and conservation diving surveys. This internship is done alongside with the PADI Divemaster trainee. Bali Diving Academy is a renown Academy existing since 1991, collaborating with National Geographic, Marine Megafauna Foundation, Coral Triangle Center and pioneer in the diving industry in Indonesia.

The project is hosted by a recognised Marine Biologist Ivanna Tobar from University of Dalhousie in Canada. Along with the necessary theory in 5 modules the students will go underwater and will collect data relating to what has been learned. The dives take the form of coral surveys, where we the multitude of species of coral in Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida will be assessed, their health, abundance and age. Advanced Fish identification surveys will follow. Last but not least, ocean cleanups will be activetly done.

At the end of this course, the candidate will not only be a divemaster, but will also have a solid understanding of our oceans, how they are interconnected, and what we can do to keep them healthy for the generations to come.

The purpose is to have fun together while the trainee become a committed underwater naturalist and while at the same time helping to gather crucial data. Our Academy hosting this project is located in Nusa Lembongan which is around 8 square kilometres with around 5,000 inhabitants. In 2010 Nusa Penida was named an MPA (Marine Protected Area) by the 41 local villages and a strong community effort, one year later it was recognized by the Indonesian government. As a part of the district of Bali, it is rich in Hindu culture with many temples to visit and ceremonies to attend throughout the year.

It is off the beaten Bali track, but it is an adventure seekers and nature lovers dream. At the same time Bali is only a 30-minute boat ride away.