Coral Restoration Internship

RRFB was my first marine biology experience and internship in general; I couldn't have asked for a more interesting, driven, and welcoming group to be a part of. The core employees come from a variety of different backgrounds, always willing to share their knowledge and meaningfully include you in team work. In other words, you feel like a strong, contributing part of the team in no time! They also share their knowledge on the island and all it has to offer as well, making for a fun experience outside of the workplace as well. I am glad to have taken a chance on this internship and couldn't recommend it enough for others too! I feel much better equipped as a diver and marine conservationist.

I did my internship with RRFB in the winter of 2025, and had a wonderful experience. The team is a well-oiled machine, and welcoming to new interns. There were plenty of resources available as I got my footing, and my needs were always heard. I spent a ton of time in the water, and learned so much about the nonprofit coral restoration industry.

Working with RRFB has been an amazing journey. I'm extremely grateful for all the experiences I had during my three months on Bonaire, and for all the lovely coral enthusiasts I met. I learnt a lot about corals and the ecosystem. Highlights for me were seeing coral spawning for the first time and working with the coral babies in the lab. Thank you all for this amazing time!

I had the best time interning with RRFB! I gained so many new things, honed my diving skills, practiced my public speaking, and got to take on tasks both in the field and in the office! I’d go back in a heartbeat if I could.

I will forever treasure my stay on Bonaire during the coral restoration internship at RRFB. I came with only a little diving experience and left with 100 dives and counting. I came with a love for the ocean and left with knowledge about its astonishing fauna and flora. I came without knowing anyone on the island and left with international friends. I especially appreciated the internship’s learning-by-doing approach: we were diving from day one and actively restoring corals by day two. After engaging workweeks, my weekends were filled with kitesurfing, swimming, hiking, and some more diving. The only downside was that life on Bonaire can be expensive, and finding accommodation can be challenging. Despite this, I would 100% recommend this internship to anyone with a scientific background who wants to make a meaningful contribution to coral restoration!

There are so many factors when deciding on an internship. For me, it was important to understand what I was investing my money in, especially given how many programs require substantial fees. Although Bonaire is relatively expensive in terms of housing and living costs, every expense associated with this internship was worth it. The conservation impact both at the organizational and individual level is so tangible and meaningful. During my time on Bonaire, I learned an incredible amount, developing both hard and soft skills. On my first day, I was told that I would get out of the internship what I put into it, and that proved to be true. Everyone at Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire prioritizes providing interns with the tools and opportunities to grow. Beyond the professional skills I gained, I also became part of an exceptional team that went well beyond working hours, making my time with RRFB both professionally and personally an experience I will always cherish.

This has been such a fun and rewarding internship! The work environment is incredible, everyone is extremely easy to work with. Internship tasks are very hands-on. I felt like I was part of the staff. My dive skills have improved greatly. Highly Recommend!!!