Description

This volunteer project provides you with an exceptional opportunity to become actively involved in field activities related to the conservation and protection of cetaceans (dolphins, whales and porpoises) in Scotland. Located on the southern coastline of Scotland's spectacular Moray Firth, you will be fully incorporated - as a central member of the research team - in long-term studies of bottlenose dolphins and minke whales with dedicated marine scientists. The conservation of these animals and the protection of ecologically-important habitat makes the monitoring of their populations a necessity. As a volunteer, you can expect to fully participate in all aspects of this research, learning about the animals and their environment through first hand experience as you work closely alongside the researchers and the whales and dolphins themselves.

Highlights

Accommodation in a quaint, heritage fishing village in northeast Scotland; stunning scenery and wildlife; small teams and an informal, relaxed and educational environment; days at sea in a small inflatable boat; close encounters with a variety of cetaceans, seabirds, seals and other marine life; hands-on training with knowledgeable marine scientists, including structured lectures, presentations and demonstrations as interest allows; lots of fun with friendly field staff and other volunteers; trips to see local attractions in the area.

Travel Types

• Volunteering

Qualifications

Experience Required:
The most important requirements for any participant are enthusiasm, the ability and willingness to learn and work under often difficult (but rewarding) field conditions and the open-mindedness and sense of humour to work, live and communicate with other people of mixed nationality and background. Please note, all volunteers (unless accompanied by an adult/guardian) must be at least 18 years of age to participate in this project.

Training and Qualifications:
Full training is provided on site.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please see GVI website for cost details

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Program Fees Include:

What's Included
* Accommodation
* Meals
* All transport costs within the field and on organised tours and site visits
* Full supervision and training by lead scientists and project leaders
* All expenses and costs incurred in the research
* A Certificate of Participation, detailing your involvement and support for the project

What's Not Included

Flights to Scotland and internal transfer costs to and from Banff; travel and cancellation insurance (all participants should carry these); any personal expenses such as alcoholic/soft drinks, tobacco, confectionaries, telephone calls, souvenirs etc

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18-65 years

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 4 to 8 volunteers and up to 4 staff.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Phone/Video Interview
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 weeks

GVI's Mission Statement

Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded

1998