Research Buddy: Marine Conservation Volunteering in Carriacou, Grenada

Research Buddy: Marine Conservation Volunteering in Carriacou, Grenada

Location
  • Grenada
    • Carriacou
Length
2 to 12 weeks

Program Details

Language
English
Age Min.
17
Age Max
100
Timeframe
Short Term Summer Year Round
Housing
Apartment Guesthouse Hotel
Groups
Small Group (1-15) Medium Group (16-30)
Travel Type
Budget Family Older Travelers Solo Women

Pricing

$2,270
Price Details
The program is broken down into a series of 'Training' and 'Project' weeks. During 'Training Week' RBs will participate in their SSI Scuba Training. During 'Project Weeks' RBs will participate in supporting one of our projects.

The pricing options are therefore:
- 2-week Training/Project program - US$2,270
- 3-week Training/Project program - US$3,145
- 4-week Training/Project program - US$4,020

If you're already scuba certified to SSI Advanced Adventure Diver (or equivalent) level you can skip 'Training Week' and come directly onto the projects. A discount of US$520 will be applied
What's Included
Accommodation Some Activities Equipment Some Meals Wifi
What's Not Included
Some Activities Airfare Domestic Airfare Airport Transfers Some Meals SIM cards Transportation Travel Insurance Visa
Jan 29, 2026
Aug 04, 2025
1 traveler is looking at this program

About Program

Research Buddies (RBs) have a unique opportunity to assist our staff in collecting and processing data from various ongoing projects.

As a Research Buddy, you will not only gain practical, theoretical, problem-solving, and analytical skills that will enhance your prospects as a future conservationist, but you will also learn how to effectively communicate scientific findings to local stakeholders. This includes participating in school education and community outreach programs, where you will help raise awareness and foster a deeper understanding of marine conservation efforts.

Program Highlights

  • Earn Scuba Diving Certifications: Learn to SCUBA dive, or advance your diving qualifications.
  • Hands-On Experience: Assist in data collection and processing for various marine conservation projects.
  • Diving Opportunities: Dive in the beautiful waters of Carriacou while contributing to reef monitoring and restoration.
  • Lionfish Containment: Help manage the invasive lionfish population.
  • Coral Regeneration: Work on coral restoration projects to support reef health.

Most Dedicated Marine Conservation Organisation of the Year 2023

Video and Photos

Program Impact

To date, we’ve raised local awareness about lionfish as a sustainable food source, helping control their population and providing a new protein source. We’ve also highlighted the importance of herbivorous fish like parrotfish and surgeonfish, leading to reduced fishing of these species and healthier reefs.

We’ve involved community members in developing a coral nursery, increasing their understanding of reef threats such as bleaching and disease. This engagement fosters stewardship and responsibility towards marine conservation.

Each project we undertake directly impacts the local community by providing accurate data that empowers better-informed decisions on coastal zone and fisheries management. This data-driven approach ensures effective, sustainable conservation efforts, leading to healthier marine environments and more resilient coastal communities.

Program Reviews

5.00 Rating
based on 2 reviews
  • 5 rating 100%
  • 4 rating 0%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Impact 5
  • Support 5
  • Fun 5
  • Value 5
  • Safety 5
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
Eva
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

volunteering with Caribbean Reef Buddy

I am a student at Mount Holyoke college studying environmental studies, costal and marine biology, and spanish. After school I hope to work in marine ecology. My time with CRB allowed me to develop my skills as a diver and learn how I can implement diving in my studies.

I worked with Nora to do ecology work such as algae and flamingo tongue removal, hunting and gutting lion fish, performing a coral watch, and propagating soft coral and sponges. I worked with Andrew to get my advanced open water certificate, wreck diving certificate, and rescue diver certificate.

Everyone at the dive shop was so welcoming and enthusiastic to share their knowledge. The instructors made sure that I always understood what was going on and encouraged me to ask questions. This is a fantastic program for anyone who wants to begin their diving journey or has a passion for marine ecology.

42 people found this review helpful.
Mathilde Granli
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Fantastisk experience with CBR!

I had three amazing weeks, collaborating with wonderful people, doing varied, fun, interesting and meaningful work! The program had an excellent balance between theory and practical work, with qualified and knowledgeable instructors, always meeting you with a smile. I have learned so much about the coral ecosystem, and have been inspired to keep working on improving it and spreading awareness of this amazing and beautiful ecosystem.

While the program was incredible, the people were even better! Before going on the trip, I would never imagine being welcomed the way I was. I instantly felt safe and included in the group, and I would never guess that it was possible to make such good friends in such a short period of time.

The program also came with a lot of great opportunities. They really went out of their way to accommodate different research, and to explore and do additional courses if that was of interest. I even got to do a drysuit course🙌

And of course I have to thank the guys for letting me borrow the shark hood! Stylish and warm😎🦈

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
I did only three weeks. It was not enough! Had I known how grat it would be I would have done at least four weeks, but ideally the whole summer🤩
Pros
  • New friend
  • You get to see sharks🦈
  • Diving almost every day
Cons
  • I should have been there longer🥲
46 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers