Volunteer in the Maldives: Whale Shark Protection

by Natucate

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$1,500-2,000Program Costs

Submit a ReviewNo Reviews

2013Year established

$1,500-2,000Program Costs

Submit a ReviewNo Reviews

2013Year established

Program Overview

This project enables you to contribute to species conservation work as a voluntary helper and devote yourself to endangered whale sharks in the Maldives. You will get a unique insight into a natural paradise as part of a team of international volunteers, promising an unforgettable experience.

Are you enthusiastic about species conservation? Do you want to experience the beauty of nature? Share your time and skills to a special project in one of the most outstanding places on earth.

Don't presume you will have a small role to play as a volunteer. You will be significantly involved in the whale shark conservation project. Together with the other volunteers, for 5-6 days a week, you will be on the lookout for whale sharks and other marine animals.

You will take daily survey trips along the famous South Ari Marine Protected Area. Your group will be responsible for checking population levels, taking photos, and measuring the whale sharks. In addition to monitoring animals, you will assist with collecting, entering, and sorting data into a database.

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Program Highlights

Join a dedicated species conservation project in the Maldives.

Live on board a research vessel and wander the Indian Ocean.

Become involved in the protection of endangered whale sharks.

Work together with volunteers and conservationists from all over the world.

Swim together with whale sharks – the largest living fish on earth!

What's Included

Emergency Support

Assistance Booking Travel

Training

Pre-Departure Orientation

Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)

Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)

Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Some Program Activity Costs

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration

Quick Details

Location

Maldives

Starts At$1,500-2,000

Availability

Year(s) Offered:Year Round

Duration:

1-2 Weeks

Age Requirement18+

Types & Subjects

Causes:

Conservation
Marine Conservation
Wildlife

GuidelinesAll Nationalities

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Updated May 22, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

Maldives

Available Terms / Availability

Years Offered
Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

All Nationalities

Education Levels & Language

Language
English
Education
Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

Group living
Other

Application Procedures

Written Application
Phone/Video Interview
Physical Exam/Health Records
Transcript
Other
Essay

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

1-2 Weeks

Starts At

$1,500-2,000

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about Natucate.

What happens after my arrival?

After your arrival on the vessel, you will receive a short introductory course. The vessel will then make its way into South Ari Atoll where you arrive at night or the next morning.

How big is the group?

The group usually consists of up to ten volunteers.

What is the accommodation like?

You will live on the research vessel MV Felicity, built in 1996 and renovated in 2003.

Two volunteers (if possible, the same gender) share an air-conditioned cabin, sleeping on a separate bed. Each cabin has a bathroom, with a toilet and shower, and (little) storage space.

The vessel has a large deck with sun loungers and a common area for sitting, working, and eating.

Are vegan/vegetarian meals possible?

Yes, it is possible to follow a vegetarian diet during the project. Please let us know about your diet and possible allergies beforehand. The chefs on board will do their best to cater for most specific dietary requirements.

What is the structure of the project?

You will spend 6 days each week working on the project with other volunteers. Tasks will include maintaining stock control, taking photos of whale sharks, and measuring their body index. In the evening, you will sort and organize data collected during the day.