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Volunteer in the Maldives: Whale Shark Protection

by: Natucate

Add first reviewSince 2013

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.

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!

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Maldives
Starts At: $1500-2000
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Conservation
  • Marine Conservation
  • Wildlife
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: May 22, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Maldives

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Conservation
  • Marine Conservation
  • Wildlife

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Starts At

$1500-2000

Program Cost Includes

  • 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

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Other

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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