A unique opportunity to volunteer on this dolphin, whale, seal and marine-life project. The "extra-hands" from their volunteer programme has helped fund research since 2002 into dolphin, whale, seal and bird conservation. 

You will volunteer in a non-profit research organisation situated in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, in the picturesque Garden Route. The Centre for Dolphin Studies is an internationally recognised marine mammal research institute that runs its own local programmes and co-ordinates other volunteer / research projects in Africa and globally. These projects are highly diverse and range from studies of behaviour, ecology and taxonomy to anatomy, physiology, conservation and management. They have also published in many scientific journals.

At the end of your Dolphin Volunteer Experience you will receive a certificate in recognition of your love and interest in marine mammals and conservation. You get hands-on experience in the everyday running of a research organisation. Volunteers' gain exposure to a range of activities from the routine, to the "CSI-like" fin-matching computer programme, to the spectacular! The volunteer course content includes lectures, practical workshops, collection and analysis of data. Participants will undergo a minor evaluated at the end of the course for certification. Those staying for longer than the minimum 4-weeks will use their newly acquired skills in ongoing student projects and data collection as well as assist with training.

Our volunteers cover the following modules: Module 1: Introduction to marine mammals - diversity and identification Module 2: Evolution of marine mammals Module 3: Marine mammal anatomy Module 4: Marine mammal physiology Module 5: Age and growth Module 6: Diet and feeding Module 7: Reproduction Module 8: Behaviour and social biology Module 9: Research techniques: § animal identification, estimation and abundance § boat-based surveys § land-based surveys Module 10: Strandings Module 11: Threats and conservation

Volunteers get involved in on-going research projects that involve monitoring the occurrence, movements, numbers and habitat of Bottlenose and Humpback Dolphin in the area.

Researching the population status and diet of the Cape Fur Seals.  And land-based studies on the migratory routes of Humpback Whales and the daily movements of other cetaceans in the area. There are also opportunistic studies involving Killer and Southern Right Whales when they are visiting the bay.

Volunteer field-work studies are project and weather dependant. When not at sea or in the field there is plenty of office work and scientific data-capturing that is vital in the study of marine science.

Volunteers also have the opportunity to help out at the local Seabird Rehabilitation Centre when injured or oiled birds come in. While occasional whale, dolphin, seal and shark strandings provide valuable post-mortem information. As a volunteer you may also may get involved in educational activities promoting awareness and conservation in schools and communities.    

Limited opportunities also arise to accompany commercial tour boats taking photographs and helping out the tour guides.

Volunteer opportunities are limited to a maximum of 6 people at any one time. So make sure you apply timeously! Volunteers are accommodated in a communal Lodge situated on the Farm just outside the local town. If you listen carefully you may hear the elephants trumpet at the adjacent elephant sanctuary.

The "Project Contribution" included in your overall fee will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project during your actual volunteer stay on the ground. On your return home you may continue to support the project financially with donations via TravAid, a UK-based charity, or via our separate Donations Account. Please enquire with our office for further information.