Marine and Coastal Conservation
Jásou - Welcome in Greece!
Sun, summer, beach and a lot of culture to explore. Greece is for a good reason one of the most popular holiday destinations.
Our marine protection and environmental protection project is located on the beautiful holiday island of Kefalonia. Our goal is to protect large seagrass beds and sand dune systems around the island of Kefalonia. For the ecosystem, the interaction between seagrass (Poisdonia oceanica) and sand dunes is an important part of maintaining balance. In this project, you can expand your research experience and develop interpersonal skills while exploring new places.
Arriving at the airport in Kefalonia, you will be picked up by a driver and taken to your apartment, where you will meet the other volunteers. The drive from the airport to the project takes about 45 minutes. After your arrival you will get a small tour of the house and you will be shown where the bikes for the project are. At the introductory event in the evening, the team introduces itself and you will be given some important information about the project but also about your volunteer work and the island/location.
Project periods: June to September
Day of arrival: every second Thursday of the month
A typical day in the project:
Your tasks will be very varied - this depends a lot on the season. The main tasks include: investigation of sand dunes, species identification and vegetation studies, collection of garbage, examination of seaweed and evaluation of the images, as well as investigation and classification of the seabed. Usually you help half-day and have the other part free. You have two days a week off - usually you have one day during the week and one on weekends. For this project it is important that you are an experienced swimmer and have experience in snorkeling in depth up to 8 meters. The equipment (snorkel and fins) will be provided on site, but we recommend that you bring your own snorkel mask.
Accommodation during the volunteer project: During your time in the project, you will live in an apartment together with other volunteers. The property is very green surrounded by many fruit and olive trees that provide plenty of shade. The apartment is equipped with a kitchen (cookware, utensils & fridge), a small living area and a bathroom where you also have hot water.
There is also an outdoor area that is perfect for barbecues. You can shop in a local supermarket nearby. Usually all volunteers cook together or go out for Greek food in the tavern.
The project is best reached by bike, which you get provided by the project.
Free time: Our project is very nicely located and the accommodations are located in coastal places. So, you can take advantage in your free time and go to the beach and enjoy the sea. In Skala there is a beautiful beach and is the perfect spot for water sports activities and beach volleyball. On the coast you will find shopping malls, ATMs, pharmacies and markets for fresh fruit – something for everyone! If you are looking for a quieter day, we advise you to visit the Mounda beach: it is quiet and offers the perfect conditions for a breathtaking snorkeling experience. On weekends it is possible to explore other islands by ferry. Get to know Greece and its warm people!
Are you ready to start your adventure?
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