An Opportunity to Gain a Wealth of Experience and a New Family

IndoOcean Project was a newer program with no reviews when I applied which caused me to be somewhat hesitant. However, I reached out to individuals from the alumni page and when I asked about their experiences, they unanimously responded that they had nothing negative to say. I add my voice to theirs because I, too, have nothing negative to say about the program or my experience.

When I decided I wanted to pursue my Dive Master certification, I knew that instead of training in a dive shop to work in the tourism industry, I wanted a program that was more conservation and scientific minded. When I looked into programs along these lines, I found IndoOcean Project, which fulfilled and then exceeded all of my expectations for a Dive Master training program. Because of amazing instructors (namely Serena, the incredibly knowledgeable and patient DM instructor) and versatile conditions throughout Penida, I now feel comfortable working and leading divers anywhere in the world. However, in addition to this base, I now also have a wealth of knowledge and experience related to marine conservation and research.

Personally, my time at IndoOcean Project was valuable in order to get back in touch with my scientific background. However, I would strongly recommend the program for people of any background, as I firmly believe that anyone who wishes to wishes to become a dive professional should have foundational knowledge in conservation (and the science that often drives it) as you will become the ambassadors of the sea. During my time with IndoOcean Project, I worked alongside Dive Master Trainees with diverse backgrounds who all found the experience to be more than worthwhile. The Lead Marine Biologist, Pascal, is passionate and knowledgeable and more than willing to sit down with you to help figure things out if there is anything you don't understand or if you simply want to 'nerd out.'

The program's research and conservation projects are hands-on and include Indicator Species Roving Surveys, Mangrove Restoration, Remote Underwater Video, Turtle Identification, Manta Identification, Marine Debris Collection and Composition, Micro-Plastic Surveys, Coral Biodiversity Mapping, and so much more. Many of these projects are run in partnership with conservation organizations and universities, and the data collected from them are used to create and inspire real time change both within and beyond the Marine Protected Area of Nusa Penida.

By far, one of the best things about IndoOcean Project is that it is always growing and changing for the better. The fearless leader and founder, Lauren, is a big dreamer with a can-do-attitude, fueled by a passion for conservation. This shows in the spirit of the organization and all of the incredible people that are a part of it. If you have an idea or a skill to contribute, the staff will listen and encourage you and help you to make it a reality. Therefore, the projects are constantly expanding and are often intern-led.

I spent my time with IndoOcean Project at the original project site of Nusa Penida. The island is full of beautiful views, welcoming people, delicious food, adorable puppies, and a magic that will draw you in in ways you never expected. There are definite advantages to partaking in IndoOcean Project at it's original site. The project is based out of Nomads Diving, a top rated dive center which was started and grew alongside IndoOcean Project. Nomads is fully equipped with plentiful and up-to-date gear, high quality dive boats, a swimming pool, classrooms, and a beach bar. Most importantly, the staff at Nomads are all incredible people with kind spirits and a shared commitment to conservation. You will have the opportunity to learn from the example of the expert dive guides Romy and Ady, will shadow talented instructors, will be safely taken care of by captains and crew, and will be able to hang out with the rest of the Nomads Family who will always be there to help you if there is anything you need. In addition, since Penida is the original IndoOcean Project site, there are more projects already happening, so you might be able to experience more variety. However, if you have the opportunity to participate at any of the locations, definitely take it! There is so much offered by those sites that Penida doesn't have--if I could, I would sign up to go to both of them right now.

Overall, I cannot recommend this program enough to anyone who would like to become a dive professional and who has a heart for the Earth and its oceans. While you will work hard and face many (rewarding) challenges throughout the course of your internship, the biggest challenge you will face will be leaving all the goodness that is IndoOcean Project!