GoAbroad

Diving & Marine Conservation in Thailand for Teenagers

by: Projects Abroad

Add first reviewVerifiedSince 1992

Join a group of teen volunteers (ages 14-18) on the tropical island of Koh Tao for a two-week mission to save our oceans. This High School Special is based at a beachside hotel in the Gulf of Thailand, where you’ll live and work with a global crew of peers. You’ll start by mastering the water, earning three SSI diving certifications, and ensuring you have the skills to perform professional-grade conservation work. Once certified, your "office" moves underwater. You’ll dive twice daily to maintain artificial reefs, conduct fish and invertebrate surveys, and protect coral from invasive species. On land, you’ll lead beach cleanups and upcycling workshops to tackle the plastic crisis. Between dives, you'll immerse yourself in Thai culture through Muay Thai lessons and traditional cooking classes, making this the ultimate mix of adventure, skill-building, and environmental impact.

Program Highlights

Earn three globally recognized SSI certifications, including Open Water and Advanced Adventurer, to prepare you for deep-sea conservation

Protect local reefs through hands-on work like removing invasive species and maintaining artificial structures to support marine biodiversity

Contribute to vital underwater surveys by collecting data on local fish and invertebrate populations, helping monitor biodiversity and support marine conservation efforts.

Experience total cultural immersion through traditional Muay Thai lessons, authentic Thai cooking classes, and exploring tropical island viewpoints

Join a safe and social environment with 24/7 staff support, beachside hotel living, and the chance to bond with volunteers from around the world

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Koh Tao, Thailand
Starts At: $2000-$5000
Availability
Year(s) Offered: 2026, 2027Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
Age Requirement: 14-20
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Community Development
  • Conservation
  • Culture
  • Marine Conservation
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Apr 09, 2026

Awards

GoAbroad Innovation Awards 2024 Finalist - Study Abroad ProgramInnovative Volunteer Abroad Program 2023 FinalistTop Rated Notable Mentions 2022Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad Finalist 2022Notable Mention 2021 - High School Abroad

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Koh Tao, Thailand

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Community Development
  • Conservation
  • Culture
  • Marine Conservation

Availability

Years Offered: 2026, 2027

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks

Age Requirement

14-20

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Group

Starts At

$2000-$5000

Program Cost Includes

  • Training
  • Guide / Chaperone
  • Emergency Support
  • Required Equipment
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • Certificate of Completion
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
  • In-Country Transportation To & From Project
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration

Accommodation Options

  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • High School Senior (4th Year)
  • High School Junior (3rd Year)
  • High School Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • High School Freshman (1st Year)

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Projects Abroad ensure my safety?

Your safety and peace of mind is our absolute priority. We've meticulously crafted a comprehensive network of support systems and procedures to ensure your journey is not only unforgettable but also completely secure.

Our dedicated Projects Abroad team is your constant companion, available 24/7 to provide assistance and guidance. From the moment you arrive, we'll be there to help you.

What goals does this project aim to achieve?

Our mission in Koh Tao is to restore coral reefs and protect a marine ecosystem threatened by climate change, bleaching, and over-tourism. As a volunteer, you’ll perform hands-on restoration work and collect vital data that shapes global environmental policies. By maintaining artificial reefs and installing mooring buoys to prevent anchor damage, you'll make a visible, immediate impact on the health of our oceans.

Which area of Thailand will I be based in?

Based in Koh Tao, you’ll live at a beachside hotel featuring air-conditioned ensuite rooms and a pool. This tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand offers world-class diving conditions year-round across several stunning sites. In your free time, you can relax by the water, explore epic viewpoints, and join social activities with fellow volunteers.

Is this program suitable for me?

Perfect for a unique summer break or a career in marine biology, this supervised program for teens requires no prior experience. In your first week, you’ll earn three SSI certifications to prepare for professional underwater work. If you can swim 200 meters and are ready for daily dives in a world-class location, this is the ultimate way to gain experience while learning from passionate marine experts.

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