I. Coral Reef Restoration

Gain hands-on experience on our active coral restoration site, working alongside our marine scientists. You’ll learn how to collect corals of opportunity, attach fragments to restoration structures, carry out maintenance dives, and document the return of marine life as the reef ecosystem recovers. Before certification level, participants receive a Project Laut Coral Restoration Diploma, recognising practical experience in coral reef restoration and fragment attachment.

For those staying four weeks or longer, and once you’ve built sufficient local diving experience, you can progress to the official SSI Coral Reef Restoration Specialty certification - a programme we authored and published through SSI. This advanced certification involves multiple restoration dives in dynamic conditions, making it both challenging and deeply rewarding, and reflects real competence in working on a live restoration site rather than a single, simulated experience.

II. REEF Fish Surveys

Proud to be REEF’s official partner in Indonesia, you’ll train in the Roving Diver Method, learn and study the Top-50 reef fish species, and submit quality-checked fish surveys. This is one of people’s favourite things to do here: within the Coral Triangle the biodiversity is extraordinary, and Nusa Penida truly has everything if you take the time to look closely.

Divers can progress their REEF Surveyor level through supervised logs and method quizzes, administered on site by our REEF Expert Surveyor. With focus and consistency, those staying for at least four weeks can realistically expect to progress to Level 3 Surveyor (intermediate level).

III. Turtle Identification
Participate in sea turtle photo-ID focused on the endangered hawksbill turtles of Nusa Penida. You’ll learn how to photograph key identification features, measure carapace length, upload sightings, and process data using I3S pattern-recognition software. To date, our team has identified 500+ individual hawksbill turtles, creating one of the most comprehensive local datasets on turtle movements, site use, and the impacts of tourism, directly supporting long-term monitoring and conservation of this critically threatened species.

You’ll work alongside a motivated team of fellow volunteers and long-stay Divemaster interns (some staying up to six months), as well as our instructors and marine scientists. Daily guests are also part of the experience, creating a dynamic and social working environment. 

• Put safety first at all times, both in and out of the water.

• Be reliable and professional, including showing up prepared, on time, and ready to contribute.

• Follow guidance and procedures to ensure high-quality restoration work and reliable data.

• Learn through high-quality training with structured workshops, clear briefings, and meaningful debriefs that support real learning and progress.

• Take part in hands-on conservation through active coral restoration, directly supporting local restoration efforts.

• Train in a professional learning environment with small group sizes, close mentoring, and a steep learning curve.

• Connect with passionate, like-minded people from around the world, building friendships through shared experiences above and below the water.

• Build transferable skills for the future, including survey methods, species identification, data collection, and coral restoration techniques.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included. We share contacts for trusted homestays and partners we’ve worked with for years, and once confirmed we’ll connect you via WhatsApp to arrange discounted intern rates. All recommended options include hot water, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning, and accommodation is booked and paid for directly by you. From Summer 2026, low-cost on-site dormitory accommodation will also be available.