Thailand Marine Conservation
4, 8 or 12 weeks
The vibrant coral reefs surrounding Koh Tao provide the perfect setting for this immersive programme, blending dive training with real-world conservation work. Whether you’re completely new to diving or already certified, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge and experience to progress your diving journey while making a genuine impact on marine ecosystems.
Working alongside marine biologists and dive professionals, you’ll learn about reef ecology, collect underwater data and contribute to ongoing conservation and restoration projects.
Choose from 4, 8 or 12-week programs, with the full 12-week Eco Divemaster option offering professional-level certification, advanced marine science training and real industry experience – opening doors to careers in diving and conservation worldwide.
Our trips push you to go further – physically, mentally, and beyond – to spark discovery at every step. For those ready to turn their passion for the ocean into real-world skills, hands-on conservation experience, and lasting impact.
Learn & Develop
Train, dive and develop in one of the world’s most incredible marine environments
Become a confident and qualified diver with no prior experience required
Progress to Divemaster level on the 12-week programme
Explore shark behaviour coral reef biology and marine ecosystems
Develop teamwork leadership and underwater skills
Contribute to long-term reef monitoring and conservation projects
Experience life on a tropical island
Connect with like-minded people who share your passion for travel and the ocean
It’s the kind of experience that builds confidence strengthens your CV and opens doors to careers in marine biology diving conservation and beyond.
Accommodation
Stay just steps from the beach and dive centre
You’ll stay in shared dorm-style accommodation directly above the dive centre, just 50 metres from the beach. Rooms are comfortable and social, with air conditioning Wi-Fi en-suite bathrooms and secure storage, all located in the heart of Sairee Beach.
Meals
Fuel for the day with local and international favourites
Breakfast and dinner are provided Monday to Friday at a local restaurant. Breakfast includes a variety of options such as fruit, yoghurt, pancakes, eggs and toast. Dinner offers a wide menu selection, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
Lunches and weekend meals are not included, giving you the freedom to explore Koh Tao’s incredible food scene – from local Thai street food to international favourites.
Transport
Simple and stress-free island transport
Daily transport between the dive centre and dive boats is arranged using local taxis. On Koh Tao, these are open-air pick-up trucks adapted for passenger use.
While transport for programme activities is organised, independent travel around the island is optional and at your own discretion.
Instructors
Expert guidance, every step of the way
All training is delivered by highly qualified dive instructors and marine biology specialists with extensive knowledge of Koh Tao’s reefs.
You’ll also be supported by a dedicated local coordinator who ensures everything runs smoothly and helps you make the most of your experience.
Itinerary
ARRIVAL
Arrive on Koh Tao and settle into island life.
You’ll meet your group, get familiar with the dive centre and prepare to begin your training in one of Thailand’s most iconic diving destinations.
TRAINING – Dive Foundations
Build your confidence and core diving skills
Begin with your Open Water and Advanced Open Water certifications, learning essential dive theory and practical skills in both confined and open water.
As you progress, you’ll develop buoyancy control navigation and underwater awareness. Those on longer programs will continue with Rescue Diver and professional-level Divemaster training, gaining the skills needed to lead and manage dives.
**Download brochure for itinerary details**
TRAINING – Marine Ecology & Conservation Training
Understand reef ecosystems and your role in protecting them
Alongside your dive training, you’ll take part in a comprehensive marine science programme focused on coral reef ecology and conservation.
You’ll learn how reef systems function, how to identify key species and how to monitor reef health using real scientific methods.
**Download brochure for itinerary details**
TRAINING – Surveys & Project Work
Contribute to real conservation and research projects
You’ll actively take part in ongoing research and conservation initiatives, collecting valuable data used to monitor reef health and marine biodiversity.
This includes reef surveys species identification and participation in conservation projects that help protect and restore Koh Tao’s marine ecosystems.
**Download brochure for itinerary details**
DIVEMASTER TRAINING (12 weeks only)
Take the first step into a professional diving career
For those on the 12-week program, the final stage is Divemaster training – your first professional diving qualification.
You’ll develop the skills to plan and lead dives, assist instructors and gain hands-on experience within the dive industry, preparing you for global career opportunities.
**Download brochure for itinerary details**
A TYPICAL DAY
A balance of diving, learning and conservation work
Mornings usually begin with dive briefings followed by one or two dives focused on skills training or reef surveys. Afternoons may include classroom sessions workshops or data logging, while evenings are free to relax and enjoy island life.
FREE TIME & WEEKENDS
Outside of training, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Koh Tao.
Your program runs Monday to Friday, leaving evenings and weekends free to explore.
Relax on the beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters or try activities like paddleboarding, climbing, Muay Thai or cooking classes. Koh Tao also offers a lively social scene, with beach bars, fire shows and local cafés to enjoy.
AFTER THE PROGRAMME
Walk away with internationally recognised certifications and real-world experience
4-week programme certifications:
RAID Open Water
RAID Advanced Open Water
RAID Ecological Diver
RAID Introduction to Sharks
RAID Whale Shark Diver
8-week programme certifications:
All 4-week certifications plus
RAID Advanced First Aid and RAID Oxygen Provider
RAID Master Rescue Diver
12-week programme certifications:
All 8-week certifications plus
RAID Deep 40 and RAID Nitrox Specialties
RAID Divemaster
IS THIS PROGRAM FOR ME?
Built for gappers, students, early career professionals and avid divers alike
No prior diving or marine science experience is required. It’s perfect for those looking to gain hands-on experience in marine conservation while developing diving skills in a tropical environment.
You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness, be able to swim 200m, and be aged 18 or over. A medical form signed by a doctor is also required to confirm you are fit to dive.
Dates & booking
Currency:
Select start date
What's included
Accommodation with breakfast & dinner (Monday to Friday)
Airport pick-up and return airport transfer
Local project staff
Dive and marine conservation training as listed
Full set of dive equipment provided for all dives. All equipment is up to date and maintained by an in-house dive technician (See brochure for more details)
Not included
Flights to/from destination
Travel insurance
Visa & vaccinations
Spending money
Lunches & weekend meals
Some personal dive equipment (12-week program only. Contact us for details)
When does this program start and finish?
The program starts when you meet the Program Coordinator or their representative on Day 1 of the program at 10.30am at Koh Samui airport, or at 2.00pm at the dive center if you are making your own way to Koh Tao. The program ends on the last day at 10.00am, or at the time you checkout of the group accommodation, whichever is earlier. Transfers to Koh Samui airport will be provided for participants flying out that same day. Full details to help you book flights and plan your arrival and departure will be provided upon booking, but please contact us if you require further details beforehand.
Spending money
You will need money for extra meals, drinks & snacks, as well as for any activities not on the itinerary. We advise you to budget for £100/€120/$150 per week.
Group size
This program can run with just 3 participants but is limited to a maximum of 8 - so book early to secure your place on your preferred date whilst spaces are available!
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Doing the South America Explorer trip was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life! I got to experience so many amazing things — spending time in a foreign country, volunteering with animals (a long-time dream), and trekking through the jungle with incredible landscapes.
My favourite moments were white water rafting, exploring Cusco, Spanish school, and playing fútbol locally. Gaz was an amazing leader who made everything fun and adventurous, and I felt so lucky to have such a great group to travel with.
Even the more challenging parts pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to experience it all. I’d recommend this trip to anyone in a heartbeat.
South America Explorer | Abby – United States
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