Overview

Want to know what being a marine biologist is really like? Looking to trial a job in marine science before pursuing a qualification in this field? Do you have a particular interest in whales and dolphins? Then our marine biology research and conservation program, based in the Spanish Canary Islands, might just be for you.

Our research station is based in Tenerife, a beautiful island situated near Morocco. It’s a short three-to-five hour flight from many European destinations. The island’s balmy waters are an excellent location for marine biology research, specifically studying whales and dolphins. This is because its waters are warm all year round, are up to 2,000 metres deep and are sheltered from harsh, open-ocean conditions. These same factors make it the perfect location for other marine species such as sea turtles and blue rays.

Many of these species are endangered, vulnerable or threatened. But several of these species, specifically dolphins and whales, are classified as data deficient. This means that we don’t have enough information about their populations. We also don’t yet fully understand how environmental threats such as plastic pollution and climate change affect these marine creatures.

This is how volunteers like you can assist professional marine biologists and conservationists. You’ll participate in citizen science projects, contributing to data collection. This hands-on experience introduces you to marine science and helps you gain valuable technical skills.

On this program, you’ll travel the waters around Tenerife with other volunteers, keeping an eye out for whale and dolphin activity. You’ll collect data on their numbers, health and behaviour. You’ll also take photos to assist with identifying specific individuals, and conduct surveys on boat activity and marine litter as part of our research initiatives.

Then, you’ll learn how to input the data you’ve gathered into a database and find out how the data is analysed. Learn how this data is used by local and international marine conservation organisations to make decisions about establishing, adapting and implementing environmental policies. During this program, participants also take part in other marine conservation activities such as beach cleans.

Please note that this is not a diving program, although you can go for a recreational dive during your free time.

Highlights

• Scientific research skills. Develop skills such as scientific research techniques, data collection, data analysis, intercultural communication and teamwork.
• Explore island activities. Go diving, kayaking, hiking and island hopping among the other Canary Islands, or simply enjoy one of Tenerife’s many beaches.
• Be part of the real deal. Contribute to ongoing environmental projects that address critical challenges aligned to the global UN SDGs.
• Join ethical initiatives. Work with local conservation partners and qualified professionals to ensure your efforts are highly ethical, meaningful and sustainable.
• Experience unreal adventures. Venture outside typical travel itineraries to get exclusive access to extraordinary remote habitats, rare species and unique ecosystems.
• Make friends for life. Share epic experiences with like-minded changemakers from all over the world who are also passionate about protecting the planet.
• Enjoy a hassle-free, safe trip. With expert local staff and 24/7 support every step of the way, you can relax and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
• Take a break. Disconnect from the digital world. Relax and take a break, reconnect with nature, rediscover yourself, and align with your true purpose.

Our Award-winning Partner

Conservation Careers has teamed up with an award-winning, mission-driven organisation with a team of passionate experts across the globe who will make your experience a truly unforgettable one.

Founded in 1998, they run programs in 26 locations, in 22 countries around the world, each aligned to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as well as the objectives of local partners. They welcome participants from all around the world and help facilitate their development into global citizens. This is how they achieve their mission of building a global network of people united by their passion to make a difference.

Their commitment to running high-quality sustainable development and experiential education programs has earned them recognition from numerous organizations such as Panthera, the Seychelles Parks & Gardens Authority, as well as Stanford, NYU, Duke, and Ohio State.

If you register your interest below, you’ll put you in touch with our partner to take the booking and to plan your trip!

Explore all our Conservation Careers Internship opportunities.

Our partner’s research station in the Canary Islands is located on the island of Tenerife. With amazing views and waters teeming with megafauna, there are loads of hikes, as well as dormant and active volcanoes. The island itself is home to a variety of microclimates, such as cloud forests and deserts.

Within easy travelling distance from the port of Puerto Colon, our research station overlooks the ocean, and has loads of nearby amenities and facilities, as well as many restaurants. From the harbour visitors can board one of Tenerife’s famous whale and dolphin watching tours. We’re situated near the town of Costa Adeje, an area popular with tourists. There is also a large shopping mall called Siam Mall about 50 minutes away.

The base is basic but comfortable, with ample space for training, working through project data, or just relaxing after a busy day. We cultivate a family atmosphere on base. Cooking and tidying duties are shared on a rotation basis amongst staff and participants.

Depending on the weather conditions, you can look forward to boat trips on the Atlantic Ocean where we monitor the whales and dolphins living around Tenerife. On other days, you might collect data on other marine species or conduct beach surveys, plastic pollution cleanups, or environmental awareness sessions with tourists visiting Tenerife. You’ll often start your mornings early with training, carrying out surveys, or capturing collected data from marine research. Evenings are spent enjoying a meal and being debriefed on the activities of the day. Afterwards, there’s time to sit back and relax while chatting with your fellow participants. During free time on base, participants play card games or chess, read, relax, or watch documentaries.

Activities