Program Reviews

I did not know what to expect when I signed up for this program, all I knew was: Dive Master AND conservation? That sounds like me. Indeed, I think it is one of the very few programs around that combine both. And it was exactly what I was looking for. So as a dive master in training you'll get to assist on different PADI courses, which helps you to understand how to deal with various situations and costumers in the diving industry. But that is just one part. Equally, you'll get an insight in the incredibly important and fascinating field of marine science! The scientific dives are more technical and can be more challenging, I always felt like I'm on a scientific mission to contribute a bit to help ocean conservation. The staff is just amazing! They are incredibly supportive, fun and extremely knowledgeable (they are like walking encyclopedias). And if you do find a questions that they cannot answer, they will find the information for you. All of them are extremely dedicated and just lovely people to hang out with! If you're up for an adventure in incredibly beautiful reefs (always good for a surprise: like Molas. or dolphins. or a tresher shark. or Mantas. or Nudis... ) and you want to learn how to dive safely in currents: This is the place to go! I miss this place and these people!

I was among the first interns in the project in Penida and stayed with IOC for half a year because i loved the people the diving and the island so much. I learned how to become a good diver even when the conditions are challenging. The training in both diving and the conservation aspect were outstanding. It’s been a good balance between learning, working and just having fun. While we were working towards our Divemaster and collecting data or getting involved in beach cleanups during the day, in the evening everyone got together for board games or just having a beer and talking about life. Lauren and Serena the manager and coordinator of the project are both very experienced in what they do and, they are inspirational and very helpful during and after completing the program. I can 100% recommend this internship and i can’t wait to go back to visit all of the people and seeing how much everything developed after my departure last year.

Hey there !!!
How can I describe my experience there?!?! It’s impossible in just few words but if I have to chose I guess I’ll say : amazing, exciting, precious, energizing, motivational, inspiring and salty! It was a mixture of different experiences that taught me a lot, it taught me to be strong and it taught me to enjoy the life ai its fullest! I would love to go there again, ‘cause I felt in love with Indonesia and its people! I would suggest to buy a ticket and fly there, as soon as possible! Nusa Penida is still an almost untouched paradise, it’s rare nowadays to find such amazing landscapes. If you love the nature and adventure is definitely a place you have to visit !! I loved every single second there.
Terima kasih my Nomad family