Sea Turtle and Island Conservation Helper

location
2 - 20 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 4.9  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Fantastic wildlife conservation work on a remote island far away from western luxury
  • Discover Koh Phra Thong's exceptional wildlife while living on a tropical island.
  • Clean beaches while conducting scientific research on plastic pollution.

Highlights

  • Fantastic wildlife conservation work on a remote island far away from western luxury
  • Discover Koh Phra Thong's exceptional wildlife while living on a tropical island.
  • Clean beaches while conducting scientific research on plastic pollution.
  • Get to know the Thai culture by living closely to the locals on the island.
  • Visit mangrove forest, coral reefs, turtle feeding grounds and kilometres of undiscovered beaches


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Join us on beautiful and remote Koh Phra Thong island and make an impact on Marine Life in Thailand!

    Naucrates, Sea turtle and island conservation project, where our volunteer program is at the heart of our mission to protect the precious sea turtles and diverse ecosystems of Phra Thong Island, Thailand. Our program is not just important; it's essential. We confront pressing social issues related ...

    About the program

    Naucrates, Sea turtle and island conservation project, where our volunteer program is at the heart of our mission to protect the precious sea turtles and diverse ecosystems of Phra Thong Island, Thailand. Our program is not just important; it's essential. We confront pressing social issues related to environmental conservation, habitat preservation, and community engagement. By volunteering with us, you become an integral part of our effort to address these challenges head-on.

    Our program centers around environmental conservation, with a primary focus on safeguarding sea turtles, their nesting beaches, and the surrounding living habitats. Volunteers play a pivotal role in our mission by helping monitor and protect long stretches of pristine beaches, contributing to cleaner seas and raising environmental awareness among tourists. 

    The Surroundings and Locations: Our volunteers will have the privilege of living and working in a breathtaking, remote tropical paradise on Phra Thong Island. Nestled away from the conventional tourist destinations, this secluded island offers a unique experience. You'll be surrounded by lush mangrove forests, vibrant coral reefs, serene seagrass beds, and picturesque beaches. It's a far cry from the typical tourist spots, offering a serene and untouched natural environment.

    Collaboration: Volunteers will work closely with our dedicated Naucrates staff and local communities. Together, we strive to protect the island's rich biodiversity and raise awareness about the significance of conserving these ecosystems. By joining our program, you'll not only contribute to vital research but also engage with local communities, supporting small-scale businesses, education, and conservation initiatives.

    Expectations: We welcome volunteers with a passion for wildlife and conservation, a sense of responsibility, and a willingness to learn. Volunteers are expected to actively participate in monitoring and conservation activities, as well as in community engagement. We provide the necessary training and guidance to ensure your contributions are effective and meaningful. While no special equipment is required, we recommend bringing your enthusiasm, a willingness to adapt to a remote environment, and a deep respect for the natural world.

    At our project, we value the life-changing experience our volunteer program offers. Many who have fallen in love with Phra Thong Island choose to return year after year. By participating in our program, you'll not only become a part of our dedicated team but also embark on a transformative journey away from the ordinary, embracing the beauty of a secluded tropical island, and actively working to protect the local nature. We invite you to visit our website at www.naucrates.org for further information and detailed insights into this extraordinary opportunity. Your journey to make a positive impact in the world of conservation begins here, with Naucrates.



    Typical day

    The following description of a daily routine should be considered as a general example. There will sometimes be changes, due to the nature of the project. In fact, we should bear in mind that we are working on wild endangered species, in a foreign country in South-East Asia.

    • Around 9:00 AM: Weather ...

    Typical day

    The following description of a daily routine should be considered as a general example. There will sometimes be changes, due to the nature of the project. In fact, we should bear in mind that we are working on wild endangered species, in a foreign country in South-East Asia.

    • Around 9:00 AM: Weather condition measurements.
    • Late morning (around 9:30 AM): 'Observations from the rock.' Two volunteers will go to the rock near GBB resort to observe the sea, looking for sea turtles, dolphins, or other marine life. If you're not on duty for 'observation from the rock,' you might have free time for swimming or beach walks.
    • Once or twice a week, we embark on a boat trip to inspect Ko Ra beaches. Some of these beaches are monitored by walking, which entails jumping from the boat, swimming ashore, and returning to the boat.
    • 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch
    • Afternoon: Engage in various small projects.
    • 2:30 PM: The second 'observation from the rock' shift begins. Two volunteers will head to the rock to observe the sea for sea turtles, dolphins, or other marine life.
    • At 7:00 PM: Dinner

    Additional on-site activities may include preparing materials for school programs, monitoring, setting up displays, creating or clearing paths, conducting guided tours for visitors, bird watching, giving turtle talks, and participating in reef surveys, among others.

    Activities are organized into daily schedules and shifts. The work is not strictly structured from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Volunteers should be adaptable, working for a few hours, enjoying some free time, and then working another two hours. This flexible schedule allows you plenty of time to enjoy the island's beauty. 


    Free-time activities

    During your free time on the island, volunteers can engage in a variety of enjoyable activities. You can explore the pristine coastal waters by kayaking or stand-up paddling, providing an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty. For a taste of local culture, visiting ...

    Free-time activities

    During your free time on the island, volunteers can engage in a variety of enjoyable activities. You can explore the pristine coastal waters by kayaking or stand-up paddling, providing an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty. For a taste of local culture, visiting the nearby village is a fantastic experience, allowing you to connect with the community and learn about their way of life. If you seek relaxation, swimming in the crystal-clear waters is always a delightful option. Additionally, for those interested in wildlife, we recommend wildlife sightseeing, where you can observe the fascinating flora and fauna that call the island home. For a more extensive adventure, consider a day trip to the Surin Islands, a captivating nearby destination that promises unforgettable experiences.


    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, Saturday and Sunday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Naucrates

    *** We have special offers for long term volunteers, friends and families!***

    This includes:

    • Accommodation (shared bungalow) at local bungalow site
    • Drinking water
    • Training and guidance on the project about our conservation work.
    • Local transport on the island during the project activities.
    • Assistance to organize and plan transfer from/to the island.

    Not included:

    • Transportation to/from Khuraburi Pier by boat. This will cost 84euro’s paid cash on the island.
    • Food and beverage at the project site (EcoHorizon resort provides Thai meals, food is served all day. The price is about breakfast 200 baht, fried rise 150 Baht, fruit juice 60 B, beer large 120 B. Two other local restaurants and one pizza bar are also near the project location. It is not possible to cook inside the bungalow and food shop are not found in the area.
    • Airport Pickup at Phuket or Ranong International airport
    • Flight tickets
    • Travel insurance
    • Vaccines

    Accommodation

    We have two different locations for our project accommodation. Mainly we stay at a local bungalow/tents situated almost on the beach. Some days we can also stay in a local village at a homestay with local families, on request. The location of the accommodation depends on the activities of the week and the number of volunteers. Accommodation in both locations is basic, either in single, double or triple rooms. You might have to share room with other volunteers. Be prepared to use a bucket shower and sometimes a local toilet!

    Electricity is provided via generators and will be available, mainly during the evening. Wi Fi is available but it can be very slow and intermittent.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Phuket International Airport

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

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Phuket International Airport (HKT) in Phuket. We assist you to find cheap flights to Thailand. 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 Thailand provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Next season starts from the 10th of January 2025 until the 30th of March 2025. Volunteers are welcome at anytime between those day.


    Travel info
    There are different options to travel to Phra Thong Island.  You can fly to Bangkok and then to Phuket or Ranong and take a bus to Khura Buri.

    From Phuket, the bus will take about 4 hours to reach Khura Buri. When you arrive at Khura Buri, you will need to take a taxi or a moped to the pier. We can help you to organize your transport to the pier and to the right boat.

    From Phuket you can also take a taxi to Khura Buri. Please ask Naucrates about costs and travel arrangements.

    You can also take a bus from Bangkok (South Terminal) to Phuket and get off the bus in Khura Buri.. The bus trip will take about 11 hours and only the VIP bus is really worth travelling on! Travelling by bus is cheap.
    Or you can take a train from Bangkok, to Surat Thani, (half way to Khura Buri) and then take a bus to Khura Buri.

    At the Khura Buri pier there will be a boat waiting for you. This must be arranged with Naucrates well in advance. The cost of the boat is included in the project fee. It takes about 1 hour from the mainland to reach the Island.

    If you plan to come earlier and spend a night or two in Kura Buri village, you should make a reservation for a room in advance. Naucrates can do this for you, if you send a message at least three days before. There are only couple of options in Kura Buri as it is not a big town.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    2 weeks (min. stay) 860€
    3 weeks 1,290€
    20 weeks (max. stay) 8,600€
    Average fees 430€/week

    Program fees

    430€ per week 2 - 20 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 20 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 Naucrates during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Naucrates

    Outstanding 4.9 rating (10 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 1996

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Zoe

    About the project

    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!

    Meet your organization

    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.

    10 reviews · rating4.9

    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. ..
    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 ...

    Location

    Asia > South East Asia > Thailand > Ko Phra Thong

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