Naucrates

  Verified by Volunteer World
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rating

4.9

Outstanding


10

Reviews


28

Years in business

Come join us on the pristine and secluded Ko Phra Tong island, where you can play a vital role in safeguarding Thailand's majestic sea turtles and their natural habitat!

Who we are

Dive into the world of sea turtle and island conservation in Ko Phra Thong, Thailand, with Naucrates, an esteemed Italian NGO. Operating in partnership with the Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC), our Conservation Project, established since 1996 and registered with the National ...

Review Description

Who we are

Dive into the world of sea turtle and island conservation in Ko Phra Thong, Thailand, with Naucrates, an esteemed Italian NGO. Operating in partnership with the Phuket Marine Biological Center (PMBC), our Conservation Project, established since 1996 and registered with the National Research Council of Thailand, focuses on the protection of sea turtles, mangrove forests, and coral reefs.

Our dedicated team has been instrumental in crafting and implementing conservation strategies that directly benefit nesting sea turtles, even as their populations have faced significant declines over the years. While we can't guarantee you'll witness sea turtle nests or hatchlings during your volunteer stint (running from 10th of January to 30th of March 2025), your participation will play a crucial role in marine conservation efforts.

Our mission

Our mission revolves around scientific research, education, and community involvement. We are committed to preserving the nesting habitats of three different sea turtle species: the Leatherback, Olive Ridley, and Green turtle. 

What we do

In addition to scientific work, we actively engage with local communities and raise awareness about the importance of conservation among both residents and tourists. Despite the challenges posed by declining turtle nesting numbers, you'll gain invaluable insights into local wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and other island fauna. Moreover, you'll be directly involved in environmental conservation, with a special focus on reducing plastic waste.

Volunteers like you will follow a well-structured scientific and conservation research program led by our project staff. Your responsibilities will include beach monitoring across the island's 15-kilometer coastline on Phra Thong and Ra Islands, with morning and daytime shifts. You'll also conduct behavioral observations of turtles feeding in the water during daylight hours.

Beyond these core tasks, we plan additional activities during your stay, such as reef surveys involving snorkeling along transects, tending to gardens, renovating the Community Conservation Centre, beach cleaning, fundraising efforts, planting initiatives, and more. You don't need prior experience in these activities, as we provide training upon your arrival.

Who are we looking for?

Our approach to volunteer activities is flexible, with daily schedules and shifts designed to maximize your contributions and allow ample time for enjoying the island's natural beauty. Activities vary, including early morning beach monitoring, 'Observations from the rock' to spot sea turtles and other marine life, and occasional boat trips to inspect Ko Ra beaches.

As for our mission, Naucrates is deeply committed to preserving sea turtles, their natural habitats, and the well-being of coastal communities in Thailand. Our vision is to create a sustainable future where these magnificent creatures can thrive. We aim to achieve this by leveraging scientific research, community education, and hands-on conservation efforts.

We are looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals who share our passion for marine conservation and can adapt to a flexible work schedule. Whether you're an experienced volunteer or a first-timer, we welcome you to join our cause.

Why choose us? 

By participating in our project, you become part of a long-standing initiative with a rich history and a proven track record in marine conservation. You'll make a genuine impact on sea turtles and their ecosystems, all while immersing yourself in the beauty of Ko Phra Thong, a truly unique and inspiring location.


Contact Person

Zoe Kraan

  Excellent response rate

Naucrates reviews

Giacomo Conti rating5.0

2023 at Sea Turtle and Island Conservation Helper

I had a great experiens. I learnd about conservation and local community cultures. Project staff were welcome and provided alot of information. The Thai food Washington excellent. I am looking forward to go back next season in order to give my contribution to the good ...
I had a great time volunteering for Naucrates on the amazing islands of koh pra thong and koh ra. There is so much wildlife to discover and of course discovering turtle nests and watching them swim in the adaman sea is the main attraction. The charity help the local environment and community in many ...
Debbie Mitchell rating4.6

2022 at Sea Turtle and Island Conservation Helper

February 15, 2019 and March 2022 I have learned that I enjoy a vacation that combines a new place to explore, local people to meet and some conservation work or volunteer work to contribute to.   When I found Naucrates, the quiet island and vast uncrowded beaches really appealed to me.  I was ...
I fell in love with the project the moment I stepped on the island. It was such an amazing experience living on such a remote island. Luckily we found a turtle nest that period. ..
Céline Réty rating5.0

2020 at Sea Turtle and Island Conservation Helper

J'ai passé 15 jours avec Naucrates en janvier 2020 et j'en garde de merveilleux souvenirs. L'équipe sur place est vraiment géniale, le projet est dynamique. Nous avons vu pas mal de tortues 🙂 mais aussi des oiseaux incroyables. L'hébergement est situé dans un endroit magique, au bord de la ...
Fantastic day on the beach looking for new nest, i found One, and was incredibile and exciting, thanks to Monica and the staff i've learned how ti recognize turtle tracks on the shore, how to Digg in the Sand to locate exactlybthe n'est. Beautiful, unforgettable ...

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UN Sustainable Development Goals

  • Life On Land