• Life Below Water

APEX Predator Monitorer

location
2 - 8 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
rating  Outstanding 4.9  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Moderate response rate

Highlights

  • Learn how to evaluate and monitor APEX predators using BRUVS (Baited Remote Underwater Video Station).
  • Work as part of a dedicated dive team.
  • Build your confidence underwater and gain valuable dive skills.

Highlights

  • Learn how to evaluate and monitor APEX predators using BRUVS (Baited Remote Underwater Video Station).
  • Work as part of a dedicated dive team.
  • Build your confidence underwater and gain valuable dive skills.
  • Gain valuable marine life ID skills and a better knowledge of marine life interactions.
  • Experience life on a friendly small Caribbean Island.

    • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Our project, launched in 2021, has the aim to create a dataset of apex predators which can be found in the waters around Carriacou.

    APEX PREDATORS MONITORER

    Carriacou is the second largest island of Grenada and the largest island in the spectacular paradise of the Grenadines Island chain measuring just 13 square miles. The tiny island has unspoiled reefs, an amazing variety of aquatic life, and over 30+ beautiful dive sites. ..

    About the program

    APEX PREDATORS MONITORER

    Carriacou is the second largest island of Grenada and the largest island in the spectacular paradise of the Grenadines Island chain measuring just 13 square miles. The tiny island has unspoiled reefs, an amazing variety of aquatic life, and over 30+ beautiful dive sites. Carriacou has some of the best dive spots in the world with clear waters, pristine coral reefs, amazing wrecks, and magical drifts. As a Reef Buddy volunteer, you will monitor and collect information on the diversity and relative abundance of reef fish species and apex predators using a Baited Remote Underwater Video Station (BRUVS). The volunteers will be working side by side with a qualified and dedicated dive team. The dive shop and the accommodation where the volunteers will be staying are just a few steps away from each other.

    Equipment & Pre-Requisites

    For a complete and engaging experience in our program, you'll find yourself immersed in underwater realms through scuba diving. If you're already an 'Advanced' level diver, you're all set to jump right in. If you're new to diving, worry not—we offer comprehensive diving training during a dedicated 'CRB Training Week.' Project-specific training will be provided at the start of each 'CRB Project Week,' ensuring you're well-prepared to make a meaningful impact. Our goal is to equip you with the skills you need to dive into the heart of marine conservation and exploration. You'll also have access to all the materials you'll possibly need. Full basic SCUBA diving equipment will be provided too, but for comfort, you might want to bring your own mask, fins, and booties.

    Why Monitor APEX Predators?

    Sharks are crucial to marine ecosystems. They maintain a balance in populations of prey species and keep the ocean healthy by removing ill or diseased animals. They are an important resource supporting local economies through fishing and as an attraction to dive tourists. By monitoring the diversity and the number of apex predators we see, we can determine the relative health and sustainability of our reef ecosystems. Answering important questions like, is our biomass sufficient to support large predators?

    Understanding the Importance of Sharks on Our Reefs

    In nature, everything is designed to work in balance. There are enough dinoflagellates produced to feed all the herbivores and copepods, which means there is enough to feed the secondary consumers too. The role of the tertiary and apex predators is to ensure that no population of the primary or secondary consumers gets too big, and they, therefore, have a very important role to play in maintaining the balance. In an environment where any layer of the food chain comes under pressure and their numbers become depressed, this can have a significant impact on the prevalence and density of other marine species. For example, if apex predators are removed from the chain, by fishing, there will be an increase in the number of other tertiary consumers. These species would likely overconsume secondary consumers. Which would then likely see a spike in primary consumer numbers and a resultant reduction in producers. Once the number of producers in an area goes below a sustainable population, then the whole chain will collapse.

    What We've Found So Far

    In Carriacou, what we are seeing here is that the population of Producers is increasing as the primary and secondary consumers are being over-fished. We see this in the proliferation of algae on the reefs. Because there are few secondary consumers, there are even fewer tertiary consumers, and the apex predators we see most tend to be small barracudas. We're planning to expand our research in 2023, by putting the surveillance in different locations around the island, including sites down towards the south side of Carriacou, where the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea meet. Join us to discover what apex predators live in the surrounding waters of Carriacou!

    Typical day

    What Will You Be Doing

    A typical day for one of our volunteers starts with a quick briefing at the dive base, outlining the day's plans. Usually, a typical day pans out along the following lines:

    08:30 - Getting Ready: Volunteers are responsible for their own scuba equipment throughout their time in ...

    Typical day

    What Will You Be Doing

    A typical day for one of our volunteers starts with a quick briefing at the dive base, outlining the day's plans. Usually, a typical day pans out along the following lines:

    08:30 - Getting Ready: Volunteers are responsible for their own scuba equipment throughout their time in the Caribbean Reef Buddy program. Each volunteer will set up and load their own scuba gear onto the boat, including a spare tank for the second dive. Survey equipment will be organized by the program coordinator.

    09:00 - Going Diving: On each dive, we will have different skills to accomplish, depending on the requirements for becoming a Divemaster scheduled for the day. We’ll head out for two dives, with the surface interval spent moving between dive sites and preparing for the next element.

    12:30 - Back at Base: All equipment is offloaded from the boat, rinsed, and tidied away. Then we break for lunch, typically taking an hour to relax and grab some food.

    14:00 - Afternoon Activities: We'll go through the video footage collected using the BRUVS - this is usually a fun group activity! Observe the different types and behaviour of the predators attracted by the BRUVS, any new sightings will be logged on the datasheet.

    15:30 - Marine life presentation: Usually, we end the afternoon with an interesting presentation on local marine life or the local ecosystem. Following this our volunteers have time to go into town, relax on the beach, or stay and ask questions from our program coordinators.

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do Around Carriacou

    Carriacou is surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches and calm turquoise water for those who like to relax in the sun and work on their tan. The word “Carriacou” is based on the Carib-Indian word meaning “Island of Reefs”, and as such, the island offers gorgeous ...

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do Around Carriacou

    Carriacou is surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches and calm turquoise water for those who like to relax in the sun and work on their tan. The word “Carriacou” is based on the Carib-Indian word meaning “Island of Reefs”, and as such, the island offers gorgeous snorkeling in several easily-accessible locations.

    Here are some of the things you may want to check out on and around the island (additional costs may apply):
    • Guided tours of the island.
    • Beaches like Anse La Roche, Paradise Beach, and Petite Carenage.
    • Island trips and beach BBQs.
    • Kite surfing on Union Island with our friends at the JT Pro Centre.
    • Visit the legendary bar on Happy Island!
    • A nature walk through mangroves and the nature park at High North.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 08:30 - 15:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Caribbean Reef Buddy

    What's Included
    • Accommodation: Participants are provided shared accommodation at a local guest house in Hillsborough. The accommodation is comfortable, and close to all the local amenities. Fast WiFi is available. At additional costs, laundry services are available on-site, as is A/C and single room occupancy. You’ll be provided with breakfast and a hearty evening meal each day (Please let us know if you have any special dietary requirements e.g. vegetarian/vegan, allergies, etc.
    • Training: Your diving training course materials will be provided to you in advance of your arrival on Carriacou via the SSI training app. Whilst you are here all of the training for the projects will be provided to you by our team. You’ll also have access to all the materials you’ll possibly need too. Full basic SCUBA diving equipment will be provided too, but for comfort, you might want to bring your own mask, fins, and booties. If you're already an "advanced" level diver, you're all set up to jump right in and don't need to do the training. You'll only be charged USD 1,750.00 for a minimum of 2 weeks plus USD 875.00 for every additional week.
    • Trips & Excursions: At least once a week, we like to arrange a non-project-related trip or excursion as a way of breaking up the program and getting you to see more of the island. These are all included too. Drinking water is provided on all trips, and a shared cool box is available if you want to bring your own drinks & snacks.

    • Pick up from Lauriston Airport in Carriacou or the Carriacou Ferry Port (Osprey Lines/MV Dolly C/Tyrrel Bay Express ferry). Please advise when you will be arriving in Carriacou, and we will come to pick you up. We will also drop you off again when you are ready to return.

    What's Not Included

    • Airfares
    • Self-Catering Accommodation
    • Visas
    • Transfers to Carriacou
    • Medical insurance
    • Travel Insurance
    • Dive Insurance
    • Lunch Meal
    • Dive Medical*
    Excursions that are not part of our monitoring activities or training programs (some volunteers wish to island-hop to explore more of the island chain).

    We typically will head out to a local restaurant on a Saturday evening, which is at our own cost. This is a great way to experience some more of the island.

    *You will be required to complete an RSTC Medical Statement prior to commencing any scuba diving course. If a "Yes" appears to any question on your statement, please consult your doctor and get them to complete the reverse of the form before the start of your program with us.

    Accommodation

    Rosa's Guest House

    • Your Reef Buddy volunteer package includes half-board guest house accommodation based on 2-3 people sharing a room. The accommodation, Rosa's Guest House, is right on the doorstep of Silver Beach, which is excellent for relaxing. Fast WiFi is available. At additional costs, laundry services are available on-site, as is A/C and single room occupancy.
    • Gary & Beverly, the owners/managers of Rosa's, will be looking after you to ensure your stay is as relaxed and comfortable as possible.
    • Rooms & apartments are available on a shared basis, with typically 2-3 people sharing a room. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, en-suite bathrooms, and fans to keep you cool. All have balcony access where you can enjoy the breeze on an evening.

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast & Evening Meal

    • You will be provided with breakfast every morning, usually comprising cereals, toast, eggs, bacon, fresh juices, tea, and coffee. Dinner every evening (except on Saturday evenings when we typically head out to a local restaurant, which the volunteers will need to pay for their own meals) will also be provided. For those volunteers with special dietary requirements, please ensure you include this as part of your application.
    Lunch is not included in your meal package, but is cheaply available from a number of eateries.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Maurice Bishop International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) in St. George's. We assist you to find cheap flights to Grenada. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Grenada provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Grenada you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Grenada. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Joining The Program

    Our dynamic program operates on an eight-week rolling schedule, allowing all participants to engage with every facet of our Carriacou-based project workstreams. During the first week, you'll receive comprehensive dive training, advancing you to the level of Advanced Adventure Diver. In the fifth week, we'll equip you with vital skills in emergency first aid and rescue techniques. If you're already certified as an Advanced Adventure or Advanced Open Water diver, feel free to join us at any juncture throughout the program. Stay for as long as you can support us, and together we'll make waves of positive change in the realm of marine conservation.

    Our program resumes its voyage on May 5th, 2025, marked by our inaugural 'CRB Training Week.' As summer unfolds, we'll echo this diver training week every four weeks, creating a rhythm of learning and growth. Presented below is our seasonal schedule, though do note that it might experience alterations. For those new to diving or possessing expertise below the Advanced level, timely arrival for the CRB Training Week is essential. Should questions arise regarding scheduling and arrival details, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to ensure your journey with us is seamless and remarkable.


    2025 Timetable

    Week Starting:

    05-May --- Training Week

    12-May --- Reef Monitoring

    19-May --- Predator Week

    26-May --- Coral Regeneration

    02-Jun --- Training Week or Macro

    09-Jun --- Reef Monitoring

    16-Jun --- Predator Week

    23-Jun --- Coral Regeneration

    30-Jun --- Training Week or Macro

    07-Jul --- Reef Monitoring

    14-Jul --- Predator Week

    21-Jul --- Coral Regeneration

    28-Jul --- Training Week or Macro

    04-Aug --- Reef Monitoring

    11-Aug --- Predator Week

    18-Aug --- Coral Regeneration

    25-Aug --- Training Week or Macro

    01-Sep --- Reef Monitoring

    08-Sep --- Predator Week

    15-Sep --- Coral Regeneration

    As per the above timetable, Predator Weeks starts on May 19th, June 16th, July 14th, August 11th, and September 8th. Again, if you're already an Advanced Open Water diver, you can arrive at least a day before the start of the program week. If you're new to diving, you need to arrive a week before to do the Training Week before joining the Predator Weeks.

    TRAVELING TO CARRIACOU

    From St. George's, Grenada, you can either fly via SVG Air or take the inter-island ferry to Carriacou

    1. Flying via SVG Air (US$69.00 one-way)

    Grenada to Carriacou Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun - 9:20 am & 4:30 pm

    Carriacou to Grenada Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun - 8:35 am & 4:00 pm

    2. Inter-Island Ferry

    a. Osprey Lines (US$30.00 one-way)

    Grenada to Carriacou 

       Mon, Wed, Fri - 9:00 am & 5:00 pm

       Tue, Thu, Sat - 9:00 am

    Carriacou to Grenada 

       Mon, Wed, Fri - 6:00 am & 5:00 pm

       Tue, Thu, Sat - 5:00 pm

    b. MV Dolly C (US$19.00 one-way)

    Grenada to Carriacou Mon, Wed, Fri - 3:00 pm

    Carriacou to Grenada Mon, Wed, Fri - 4:00 am

    c. Tyrrel Bay Express (US$23.00 one-way)

    Grenada to Carriacou Tues, Thu, Sat - 4:00 pm

    Carriacou to Grenada Tues, Thu, Sat - 5:00 am
    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    2 weeks (min. stay) 2,264€
    3 weeks 3,137€
    4 weeks 4,010€
    5 weeks 4,883€
    6 weeks 5,756€
    7 weeks 6,629€
    8 weeks (max. stay) 7,501€
    Average fees 1,034€/week

    Program fees

    1,034€ per week 2 - 8 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    2 - 8 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Caribbean Reef Buddy during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

    Meet your organization

    Caribbean Reef Buddy

    Outstanding 4.9 rating (9 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 2013

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Moderate response rate

    Coordinated by

    Gary

    Spoken languages: German, Spanish, English

    About the project

    Caribbean Reef Buddy is a non-profit organization (NGO) dedicated to marine conservation, based on the island of Carriacou, Grenada.

    Meet your organization

    WHO ARE WE?

    Caribbean Reef Buddy is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and understanding of our unique marine life. Throughout our work, our aim is to enhance conservation and scientific knowledge, while inspiring people and leading by example, encouraging environmental awareness and individual development.

    WHERE ARE WE?

    Caribbean Reef Buddy is based on the island of Carriacou, Grenada, West Indies. Carriacou is the second largest island of Grenada and the largest island in the spectacular paradise of the Grenadines Island chain measuring just 13 square miles. The tiny island has unspoiled reefs, an amazing variety of aquatic life, and over 30+ beautiful dive sites. Carriacou has some of the best dive spots in the world with clear waters, pristine coral reefs, amazing wrecks, and magical drifts. The island's charm lies in its laidback rejuvenating escape from the fast-paced world. It is a very safe island where you do not have to worry about crime or violence. Muggings are virtually unheard of and even petty thefts are very rare.

    WHY CHOOSE US?

    Our Story in Carriacou is to work closely with the community and people like yourself to make a sustainable difference in marine conservation awareness and education. Caribbean Reef Buddy (CRB) does this through the delivery of environmental and conservation projects that are linked to global ecological and social themes. Our projects include assessing marine species and coral health, repopulation of our reef systems, and supporting greater awareness within our local schools.

    You too can write a chapter in our ongoing story of how our Reef Buddies took some time and made a huge difference on this tropical island paradise. Your story can not only include your first-hand experience of delivering our projects, but also of your hikes in the tropical forests, your walks along deserted beaches, and the bond you’ll make with new friends from all over the world. Join us in the Caribbean as we help you to start a new chapter in your story.


    MISSION, OBJECTIVE & VISION

    Our Mission is to work with and in support of local communities to assist in the protection and preservation of a healthy, diverse, and sustainable marine ecosystem.

    Our Objective lies in maintaining strong ties and links to the local community, their interests, and concerns. The success and sustainability of any marine environmental study or conservation project are largely dependent on a comprehensive outreach program.

    Our Vision is the continual identification of marine ecological and environmental initiatives within Grenada and Carriacou. Deliver local, national, and international outreach programs in conjunction with an all-inclusive training package to protect and preserve the marine and coral reef ecosystem.


    THE ROLE OF VOLUNTEERS

    We are looking for individuals interested in marine ecology and conservation to work on critical marine conservation projects around the beautiful island of the Carriacou.

    You will contribute towards various conservation-related surveys aimed at providing data to the local government on coral reef research, fish, and invertebrate surveys, assist with the development of an environmental education and awareness program, monitor sharks, assess diver impacts, as well as marine plastic pollution clean-ups and surveys.

    9 reviews · rating4.9

    Racquel Artuz rating5

    2023 at APEX Predator Monitorer

    I had a great time during my 4 weeks of volunteering with Caribbean Reef Buddy. On my first week with the program, I did training week wherein I got my required diving qualification/certification. For the remaining 3 weeks, we did various of marine conservation activities (different project every ...
    John Mclaughlin rating5

    2023 at Coral Reef Monitoring Supporter

    This was a life-changing experience. The crew at CRB provided a mix of fun and education that was an amazing basis to learn and become certified as an advanced open-water diver. The fact that we were able to help with a research project only made the entire experience more enjoyable. I am ...
    Todd Crouse rating5

    2023 at Coral Reef Regeneration Assistant

    There were so many things to see, swarms of fish, tons of coral varieties, sponges, eels, turtles and even a few nudibranchs. Oh and you forget you are supposed to be identifying various predators. Many staff members had hawk eyes to point out very well hidden or camouflaged shrimp, eels and the ...
    Billy Williams rating5

    2023 at Marine Conservation Dive Master

    The accommodations were the only downside to the whole trip. The staff was fantastic, and as a Dive-Master intern, I learned much more than if I had tried to do it locally. Gary was very hands-on in my training and made me fill like I could do it through the whole process. The staff made sure ...
    Jonathan Pierce rating4.8

    2021 at Coral Reef Regeneration Assistant

    There were so many things to see, swarms of fish, tons of coral varieties, sponges, eels, turtles and even a few nudibranchs. Oh and you forget you are supposed to be identifying various predators. Many staff members had hawkeyes to point out very well hidden or camouflaged shrimp, eels and the ...
    Karen Bellamy rating4.8

    2019 at Coral Reef Regeneration Assistant

    I spent 2 weeks volunteering with Caribbean Reef Buddy, and I had an amazing time. I was already Open Water Qualified which I extended to my Advanced Open Water in my time on Carriacou. The staff were very supportive, professional and patient with me as I had not dived for a few years. The ...

    Location

    Americas > Caribbean > Grenada > Carriacou

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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Environment  >  Marine Conservation in Grenada
    Contact Gary
      Moderate response rate
    German, Spanish, English

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