Blue Ventures

I was the medic on an expedition to Madagascar. Having never been diving previously I was very apprehensive about the training, but this was excellent. We all managed to get necessary qualifications in time to allow us to survey. The science team teaching us were passionate and knowledgeable. The village we lived in was beautiful and BV employs a lot of local staff, which was a great way to learn about the community. Our accommodation was basic (cold salt water showers was a struggle for 2 months!) but clean.

As a medic I did not have very much to do, but all was within my capabilities. There is also a volunteer lead Italian Hospital in the village which I was able to spend a day shadowing. This gave me support on anything that I was unable to manage with the basic medical kit provided by BV.

Amazing trip! will remember this experience forever. I don't know how someone could give a review less than 8/10 they are crazy or maybe just mad at the world. Staff was incredible. Shoutout Bic- the best dive master. shoutout all the people of Andavadoaka!!!!!!!!!!!!

*This review was monitored by a Go Overseas staff member and modified to remove special characters not allowed by our system that were included in the review.

If you are willing to take part and share the workload, you will be welcomed as part of the team. Whatever your skills are, BV will find a place for you. Perfect for conservation or international development interns! I highly doubt that there is a more rewarding experience elsewhere for the money, length of time, location and culture. One of the great perks is the option to stay in the home of local people, where you really begin to grasp the local vezo culture. The food is amazing. The more time you take to spend with local people, the better the experience in my opinion. You'll find yourself trying to find a way to return to Andava!

This was my first experience of any marine conservation programme and had never been diving so prior to joining I was slightly apprehensive. From the outset of the expedition we were made to feel very comfortable and the team ensured any concerns were dealt with very quickly. The dive instructor Bic was really good and made learning the new skill very simple. It was clear the field scientists were incredibly passionate about their work and working with the conservation staff, the impact BV has had on the local area is obvious. Had an incredible time and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in making a positive impact to the area.

It's been a few months since the expedition and I still find myself thinking about it (and keeping in touch with the other volunteers). Blue Ventures did a great job of making sure there was something for everyone (like interactions with the locals, a visit to a manatee rehab centre, a tour of the local village/cenote/bat cave, and amazing diving, of course!).

The cabanas we stayed in were surprisingly comfortable, and we got to wake up to the sunrise every day (and no bugs!!). Diving was done 1-3 times a day, and the rest of the day was for relaxing, data entry and other tasks, and some of the most intense volleyball games you will ever experience.

It's a huge investment in terms of trips (I'm very cautious about the programs I choose), but I assure you BV is one of the most reputable, conscientious, and exciting programs out there.

I surveyed a number of exclusive diving sites, logged 50 dives, became an advanced diver, met the most amazing people, and developed a passion for Belizean fry jacks. Highly recommend!!