Marine Conservation Volunteering in Greece
Oyster volunteers play a vital role in marine conservation on the stunning island of Alonissos, Greece, located in the heart of the North Sporades in the Aegean Sea. As part of Europe’s largest National Marine Park, volunteers help protect the endangered Mediterranean monk seal and support a rich array of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and rare bird species. By participating in beach clean-ups, wildlife monitoring, and environmental education, volunteers contribute to preserving Alonissos’s unspoiled natural beauty and biodiversity. Their efforts foster sustainable tourism, empower local communities, and raise awareness about plastic pollution and marine conservation, ensuring this island paradise remains a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors.
Duration: 1 or 2 weeks
Arrival day: Sunday
Return day: Saturday
Eligibility: No previous diving experience required. Must be fit to dive.
Age: 18+
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Highlights
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PADI Diving Certification: Earn an internationally recognized scuba qualification, from beginner to advanced levels.
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Underwater Clean-Ups: Join impactful dives to remove plastic and debris from the Aegean Sea, directly protecting marine life.
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Marine Science Workshops: Gain hands-on knowledge about marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
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Skill Building: Learn to identify marine species and assess ocean health through guided dives and training.
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Real Conservation Impact: Help protect endangered species like the Mediterranean monk seal and support long-term marine conservation in Greece.
Our oceans are vital to life on Earth, covering more than 70% of the planet, generating half the oxygen we breathe, and absorbing 25% of the world’s CO₂. Over 3 billion people rely on the sea for food or income, and nearly 60 million work in sea-dependent industries. Despite this, our oceans face unprecedented threats: pollution, overfishing, climate change, and plastic waste are causing devastation to marine habitats, with 70% of all sea litter now on the ocean floor and massive plastic islands floating in the sea.
Embark on a meaningful marine conservation project in Alonissos, Greece, home to Europe’s largest National Marine Park. As a volunteer, you’ll play an essential role in preserving the pristine Aegean coastline, safeguarding endangered species like the Mediterranean monk seal, and supporting healthy marine ecosystems through underwater and coastal clean-ups. These hands-on efforts directly combat the threats facing our oceans, from rising sea levels and eroding coastlines to the alarming spread of microplastics and the decline of coral reefs.
This volunteer program is open to everyone—no previous diving experience is needed. Participants receive internationally recognized PADI scuba certification from expert instructors before joining impactful conservation activities. Your program fee includes comprehensive training, all required scuba equipment, eco-friendly shared accommodation, daily breakfast and one main meal, and ongoing guidance from experienced dive professionals. You’ll also receive a thorough orientation and airport transfer from Athens to Alonissos for a seamless experience.
As a volunteer, you can achieve your PADI Open Water Diver or advanced certifications, with opportunities to specialize in marine conservation and citizen science. By joining this initiative, you make a real difference for Greece’s unique marine life and support sustainable tourism, leaving a positive, lasting impact on Alonissos’s breathtaking natural environment.
We depend on healthy oceans—and now, more than ever, the oceans depend on us. Join us in Alonissos to be part of the solution.
Diving Certification: Start your marine conservation journey in Greece by earning a globally recognized PADI scuba diving certification. Whether you’re a beginner or already have some diving experience, you’ll take courses that match your level, from basic Open Water Diver to advanced specialties. Enhance your expertise with optional programs like Marine Ecology and Fish Identification, gaining deeper knowledge of the Aegean’s unique underwater world.
Underwater Clean-Ups: Play an active role in preserving the Aegean Sea by joining underwater clean-up dives around Alonissos. As a volunteer, you’ll help remove plastics, lost fishing gear, and other marine debris—directly protecting endangered species and restoring vital habitats within Europe’s largest National Marine Park.
Marine Conservation Training: Deepen your understanding of marine biology and ocean conservation through workshops, citizen science activities, and practical fieldwork. Learn about the rich biodiversity of the Greek islands, monitor marine life, and develop skills to assess ecosystem health and identify conservation priorities. Your hands-on experience will make a lasting impact on the local environment and contribute to sustainable tourism in Greece.
No previous diving experience is required to join our marine conservation project in Alonissos, Greece. This program is open to complete beginners and experienced divers alike. If you’re new to scuba diving, you’ll receive comprehensive PADI training and earn your internationally recognized Open Water Diver certification before starting any conservation activities. Certified divers have the opportunity to expand their skills with advanced courses and specialty training in marine ecology and conservation. All dives are supervised by professional instructors, ensuring your safety and support at every step. Whether you’re taking your first dive or looking to build on existing skills, you’ll be fully prepared to make a meaningful impact on Greece’s marine environment.
Are you looking for paid work in the conservation sector after volunteering or interning? Oyster have teamed up with our friends at Conservation Careers who support people to find paid work in conservation following study or a career change. You can add their fantastic and flexible course to your volunteering trip with Oyster. Your Oyster experience will help add interest to your conservation resume as an eye catching addition to your job applications in future!
Accommodation in Steni Vala, Alonnisos
Volunteers participating in the program will stay in comfortable studios or rooms located in the picturesque port village of Steni Vala on Alonnisos island. Accommodation options include single, twin, or triple occupancy, with rooms shared among fellow volunteers from the same program.
Each studio or room features a private side-by-side balcony offering scenic views of the Aegean Sea and/or a lush garden. Amenities include air conditioning, a television, refrigerator, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Guests have access to generous shared facilities such as a spacious garden with outdoor seating, a barbecue area, and dedicated parking. The property is just 100 meters from the beach and within walking distance of local cafes, restaurants, a supermarket, and public transportation.
A traditional Greek breakfast is provided daily at a nearby café-bistro, offering a delicious start to the day with options such as coffee or tea, fresh juice, homemade jams, pies, and other local specialties.
Lunch is served at a charming local restaurant just a two-minute walk from both the accommodation and the diving centre. Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine while taking in stunning sea views, creating a memorable and flavourful experience as part of your stay.
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Fresh & Local Ingredients: Meals feature delicious Greek cuisine with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to support sustainability.
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Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Special dietary requirements, including vegetarian and vegan diets, can be accommodated upon request.
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Experience Greek Flavours: Try traditional dishes such as Greek salads, grilled vegetables, seafood, olives, and fresh bread.
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Community Dining: Share meals with fellow volunteers in a relaxed, social setting, fostering connection and cultural exchange.
Travel arrangements
Airport: Skiathos International Airport (JSI)
Arrival day: Sunday. You’ll be collected from the airport and transferred to your accommodation in Alonissos.
Departure day: Saturday
Included
- Access to your own personal ‘My Oyster’ account – our online portal where you can find out much more about the program and manage your booking
- Dedicated contact time with an experienced destination manager to discuss the project, answer any of your questions and for us to find out more about you
- Help and advice from our UK office before arrival and whilst you are away
- Pre-departure information covering medical, safety and project advice
- Gold level, 24/7 Pharos crisis management and incident support cover
- Financial protection: ATOL (if we book your flights).
- Thorough orientation on arrival
- In-country support
- Accommodation (see the ‘accommodation’ section above for details)
- Advice on visa requirements
- Oyster plants a tree in Africa with TreeAid to help reduce the impact of global carbon emissions
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Airport collection and transfer to your accommodation
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Daily breakfast and one main meal
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Guided island orientation tour
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All diving equipment, PADI training, certification, and instruction
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Accommodation with linen and towels provided
On your return:
- Welcome home pack
- Certificate of Recognition (on request)
- References (on request)
Not Included
- Flights – as an ATOL bonded company, Oyster can book flights for you
- You need a valid passport that meets the requirements of the country you will be travelling to
- Insurance (covering your time with Oyster and any planned independent travel)
- Any costs associated with changing your return flight date if you need to
- Independent travel costs
- Home country travel costs
- Spending money for additional trips, food and entertainment
- Return costs to the airport
More Information
The marine conservation project in Alonissos runs Monday to Friday, with your first day dedicated to an orientation and island tour. You’ll meet your team, get familiar with the program, and settle into your accommodation.
Daily schedules can vary depending on weather, diving level, and project needs, but a typical day looks like this:
08:30: Breakfast with fellow volunteers
10:00 – 17:00: Project activities and diving—these may include conservation dives, underwater clean-ups, marine research, and workshops
15:30 – 17:30: Lunch break (timing may vary depending on activities)
18:00 – 19:30: Optional evening session (such as plastic recycling workshops or community outreach)
20:00 – 22:00: Free time to explore, relax, or enjoy dinner with the group
Afternoons and evenings often provide opportunities to discover the island, unwind at the beach, or participate in social activities with your fellow volunteers.
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No previous diving experience is necessary; full training and certification are provided.
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Volunteers should be able to swim and comfortable in the water.
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A willingness to learn, participate in conservation activities, and respect local customs and the environment is important.
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All volunteers must complete a medical questionnaire before diving.
Whilst late-availability is possible, we would advise booking as soon as you can to guarantee your ideal dates. Our projects are very popular and spaces can fill up several months in advance, especially for the months of June to September.
Late Spring (May):
Experience pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. May is ideal for nature lovers, hiking, and exploring both the marine park in Alonissos and historical sites in Athens before the summer rush.
Early Autumn (September to October):
Take advantage of mild weather and a relaxed atmosphere as the summer crowds fade. This period is excellent for water activities, spotting local wildlife, and enjoying beautiful autumn landscapes.
Spring (April):
Witness Alonissos in bloom and enjoy comfortable weather for outdoor activities. With fewer tourists, you’ll have a peaceful setting for hiking, diving, and island exploration.
Winter (November to March):
Looking for a quieter experience? Winter brings a calm, authentic side to Alonissos and Athens, with lower accommodation prices and opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture—though some marine activities may be limited by weather.
We would recommend budgeting approximately £50 a week for free time activities.
There are cash machines located in the town but you can pay by card everywhere. You should take at least two cards with you, and let your bank know that you will be going away.
Typically you won’t need a visa for stays up to 3 months. You should make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
Most of our volunteers are independent travellers and you will become part of a group of people from around the world here. It is fine to travel with friends or as part of a small group too however- more the merrier!
You should visit your doctor or travel nurse to find out what vaccinations you will need. Your routine vaccinations will need to be up to date. You should follow your doctor’s advice.
Please see the Fit for Travel website.
The closest hospital to Alonissos is located on the neighbouring island of Skiathos, which can be reached by ferry. Alonissos itself has a local health centre for first aid and minor medical needs, but more serious cases are transferred to the Skiathos Hospital or to mainland facilities in Volos. Emergency medical evacuation by boat or helicopter is available if needed. For peace of mind, we recommend all volunteers have comprehensive travel and health insurance during their stay in Greece.
Alonissos, Greece, is considered a safe and welcoming destination for international travelers and volunteers.
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Low Crime Rate: Alonissos is known for its low crime rate. Violent crime is extremely rare, and locals are friendly and hospitable. Basic precautions, such as safeguarding valuables, are always recommended, especially in busier areas during the tourist season.
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Supportive Community: The island’s residents are known for their warmth and friendliness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
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Safe Activities: Outdoor activities like diving, hiking, and exploring beaches are generally safe, especially when guided by experienced instructors and reputable operators.
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Health Services: Alonissos has a local health center for first aid and minor medical needs. For more serious medical care, transfers are available to the hospital in Skiathos or mainland Greece. Comprehensive travel and health insurance is recommended.
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Transportation: Public ferries and local transportation are reliable and safe. Roads are in good condition, and island traffic is manageable.
As with any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, follow safety instructions, and respect local guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.
There is free wifi provided at the volunteer house. You will receive a free local SIM card on arrival. Make sure that your phone is unlocked before arrival so that you can use the local SIM card.
We would suggest that you download the App Whatsapp prior to arrival so that you can be added into the volunteer group once you are in Croatia.
Mobile phone reception in Alonissos is generally good, especially in the main towns and near popular beaches. Most major Greek mobile networks provide reliable coverage across the island, so making calls and using mobile data is usually not a problem. However, signal strength may be weaker in some remote or mountainous areas. For the best experience, consider using a local SIM card or ensuring your provider has international roaming options available in Greece.
Alonissos, Greece, operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC+2. During daylight saving time (from late March to late October), the island follows Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), UTC+3.
In Alonissos, Greece, you’ll need a Type C or Type F plug adapter for your electronic devices. The standard voltage is 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz. Most European and UK devices are compatible, but travelers from other regions (such as North America) may need a voltage converter as well as an adapter.
As a marine conservation volunteer in Alonissos, you’ll enjoy plenty of free time to explore the island and relax. The program typically runs Monday to Friday, with evenings and weekends free. You can use your downtime to visit beautiful beaches, hike scenic trails, discover local culture, or simply unwind with fellow volunteers. The flexible schedule allows you to make the most of your Greek island experience while making a positive impact.
Supervision will be fairly intensive during the first few days, when you will receive a thorough induction and work-related training. Once you are comfortable with things, you might not always have a supervisor working alongside you, but there will always be staff and other volunteers around to help, and you will always be accompanied for any high risk activities.
Staff at Oyster’s head office and in-country will be responsible for your safety and welfare while you are at the project. This will start from the moment you are picked up from the airport until the end of your project. Before and after these times, you will be outside Oyster’s responsibility and should make sure that you act safely and avoid risk. This is also true if you choose to leave the project during your time off. We will give you plenty of guidance and advice about this.
Got a question or want to chat to Project Manager Kate who has first-hand experience of the project? Call +44 (0) 1892 771 973or email: – [email protected].
