Marine Research Internships: Dive Into Hands‑On Conservation Programs Around the World

Healthy oceans support nearly every aspect of life on Earth, yet marine ecosystems face mounting pressure from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. If you’re pursuing marine biology, oceanography, or environmental science, marine research internships deliver hands-on experience with real impact. 

Explore programs that put you in the water with whale sharks, restore coral reefs, survey sea turtles, and advance sustainable aquaculture—blending rigorous research with travel and cultural immersion for aspiring scientists and adventure-minded travelers.

Mediterranean Marine Internships in Greece

Aquaculture & Fisheries Internship – Athens

Athens is a hub for innovative marine science. Interns with Intern Abroad HQ’s Aquaculture & Fisheries program work at a leading research centre where they help with real‑world scientific studies on sustainable fish farming. Duties include supporting aquaculture and fisheries projects that aim to improve water quality and reduce the ecological footprint of seafood production

You’ll build connections with researchers and industry experts, gaining insight into the booming field of sustainable aquaculture. 

Aquatic Conservation Internship – Athens

Also based in Athens, the Aquatic Conservation internship places participants in the Amvrakikos Wetland National Park. This protected area is a lifeline for rare species, and interns collaborate on conservation projects that support the survival of critically endangered organisms. Participants work alongside an environmental NGO dedicated to restoring aquatic ecosystems and monitoring water quality. 

The wetlands are a birdwatcher’s paradise, and interns often record sightings of pelicans, flamingos, and raptors while collecting data.

Marine Ecology Internship – Samos

On the lush island of Samos, Intern Abroad HQ’s Marine Ecology internship focuses on biodiversity and the health of Aegean ecosystems. Interns conduct surveys to assess marine life, identify invasive species, and evaluate the impact of human activities. 

The program teaches cost‑effective conservation solutions and highlights how climate change and invasive species threaten the Aegean Sea. Fieldwork may involve snorkeling, beach cleanups, and interactions with local fishermen. 

Marine Mammal Research & Conservation – Samos

The Marine Mammal Research & Conservation internship offers a chance to study dolphins, seals, and sea turtles in the Mediterranean. Interns assist scientists with boat‑based cetacean surveys and participate in conservation projects that protect marine mammals and sea turtles.

Alongside collecting data, participants support community education programs aimed at reducing boat strikes and net entanglement. Since the host organization is the Marine Institute of Conservation, you’ll network with seasoned researchers.

Sea Turtle Conservation Internship – Kefalonia (Greece)

GVI’s Sea Turtle Conservation internship in Greece deepens your understanding of critical marine species like green and loggerhead sea turtles. Interns partner with the National Environment and Climate Change Agency (NECCA), learning survey techniques and contributing to sea turtle protection. 

The internship not only teaches you to identify nesting activity but also offers cultural experiences — imagine learning Greek star mythology after a day of monitoring nests. It’s a short‑term program ideal for students seeking field experience and a taste of Greek island life.

Marine Internships in Spain’s Canary Islands

Marine Biology Internship – Tenerife

In Spain’s Canary Islands, Intern Abroad HQ’s Marine Biology internship invites interns to the volcanic island of Tenerife. This PADI‑accredited program includes scuba certification, underwater sampling, and analysis. 

Participants learn to collect and interpret data on marine species and may even write a thesis or scientific publication. The host organization ensures that dive training meets global safety standards. When not underwater, interns can hike Mount Teide or relax on black‑sand beaches.

Marine Biology Internship – Canary Islands (GVI)

GVI’s Marine Biology internship in the Canary Islands offers another perspective on this archipelago. Interns learn cetacean data collection and analyze population trends by using dorsal fin photography to track individual whales and dolphins. The research helps scientists understand the effects of tourism and fishing on marine mammals. 

Tenerife’s mild climate means year‑round fieldwork is possible, and interns often spot pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and the occasional sperm whale during boat surveys.

Central America: Coral Restoration and Turtle Conservation

Coral Restoration & Marine Biology – Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity, and Intern Abroad HQ’s Coral Restoration and Marine Biology internships in Manuel Antonio immerse interns in reef restoration. Participants gain specialist experience in coral rehabilitation, contribute to reef and ecosystem restoration, and learn from experienced scientists. 

Projects range from transplanting coral fragments to monitoring reef health. During downtime, participants can explore Manuel Antonio National Park’s lush rainforests and abundant wildlife.

Sea Turtle & Eco‑Oasis Programs – Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

GoEco’s Sea Turtle Conservation program invites Participants to patrol nesting beaches, collect data, work in hatcheries, rescue injured turtles, clean beaches, and provide environmental education.

A variant program based in a sustainable eco‑oasis on the Osa Peninsula offers community‑driven conservation efforts: Participants protect an eight‑kilometre nesting beach that records over 7,000 nests per season. In addition to patrolling and relocating nests, Participants build hatcheries and assist hatchlings on their journey to the ocean. 

The eco‑oasis setting means lodging is eco‑friendly, and you’ll learn about permaculture and tropical agriculture.

Coral Reef Ecology & Conservation

For those seeking structured internships with academic components, GVI offers short‑term Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation programs in Mexico, Fiji, and Seychelles. The Mexican internship trains participants in coral reef ecology and in‑field research. 

The Costa Rican Sea Turtle Research and Conservation internship is based in Cahuita and involves monitoring nesting behavior, patrolling beaches at night to collect nest data, and studying feeding patterns in seagrass meadows. Interns also collaborate on environmental education projects and lead independent research.

Sea Turtle Conservation – Mexico (GVI)

GVI’s Sea Turtle Conservation internship in Mexico places Participants along the Caribbean coast, where they patrol beaches for nesting turtles, record nest data, study feeding in seagrass meadows, and participate in environmental education. 

The project supports long‑term research and offers opportunities to lead independent investigations on turtle behavior. Mexico’s Caribbean coast also boasts stunning cenotes and Mayan ruins, making weekend adventures unforgettable.

Indian Ocean, Africa, and Red Sea Adventures

Marine Biology & Reef Conservation – Sodwana Bay, South Africa

South Africa’s east coast holds one of the world’s most biodiverse dive sites. Intern Abroad HQ’s Marine Biology & Reef Conservation internship immerses interns in regular scuba diving at Sodwana Bay, a site where whales, manta rays, turtles, and colourful fish thrive. 

Participants gain an understanding of conservation challenges and collect data to support reef protection efforts. 

Whale Shark & Marine Conservation – Tofo, Mozambique

Swim alongside the largest fish on Earth through GoEco’s Whale Shark & Marine Conservation program in Mozambique. Participants dive in pristine waters, complete a dive course suitable for beginners or experienced divers, and conduct photo ID surveys on whale sharks. 

The schedule includes survey dives or ocean safaris to collect photos of whale sharks and dolphins, turtle nest surveys, and beach cleanups. Participants also monitor coral reefs, identify fish species, participate in humpback whale surveys, and assist with beach cleanups. Free weekends let you explore Tofo’s markets and relax on sandy beaches.

Coral Reef and Marine Conservation – Seychelles (GVI)

The Seychelles islands are a hotspot for marine research. GVI’s Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation internship offers hands‑on experience monitoring coral reefs and participating in restoration projects. 

Another internship, Marine Conservation in the Seychelles, places interns on research teams that gather data on coral reef health and work with organizations like the Seychelles National Parks Authority. A related Environmental Conservation internship combines snorkelling and hiking to survey seagrass, mangroves, and coral habitats, and teaches participants to identify invertebrates, fish, algae, nudibranchs, and even sharks. 

Coral Reef Ecology & Conservation – Fiji (GVI)

Fiji’s crystal‑clear waters host more than 40% of the world’s coral species. GVI’s Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation internship in Fiji gives interns field experience in coral reef monitoring and restoration while earning a leadership qualification.

Participants contribute to protecting this unique coral ecosystem and often collaborate with local communities. A short‑term version, the Marine Conservation internship, involves working within a locally managed marine area to support coral reef conservation and earn a PADI Advanced Open Water certification.

Dolphin, Turtle, and Shark Conservation – Fiji (GVI)

The Dolphin, Turtle, and Shark Conservation internship in Fiji gives participants the rare chance to collect data on these charismatic species. Interns live on a remote island base and gain hands‑on field experience in species identification and survey techniques while scuba diving.

Daily tasks include capturing data to contribute to local marine conservation projects and engaging with community training sessions. The program highlights the importance of marine predators in Fiji’s reef ecosystems and fosters collaboration with local villagers.

Marine Conservation Internship – Bali (GVI)

Indonesia’s Coral Triangle is a global biodiversity hotspot. GVI’s Marine Conservation internship in Bali teaches interns to dive while helping conserve coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and unique marine life — the program’s meta description emphasizes both diving instruction and conservation work. 

Although the dynamic page contains limited static content, participants typically take part in reef surveys, seagrass monitoring, and community outreach. Bali’s cultural landscape — from temples to surf beaches — adds a once‑in‑a‑lifetime dimension to the internship.

Sea Turtle & Dugong Research – Thailand (GVI)

GVI’s Thailand Sea Turtle Research and Dugong Conservation internship supports research on endangered turtles and dugongs in the Andaman Sea. Interns use snorkel surveys to monitor habitats, collect data on seagrass meadows and coral reefs, and receive mentorship that builds practical conservation skills. 

Living near limestone cliffs, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows, participants gain a holistic understanding of coastal ecosystems while immersing themselves in Thai culture.

Sea Turtle Conservation Internship – Okinawa

Japan’s southern islands are a breeding ground for endangered sea turtles. Intern Abroad HQ’s Sea Turtle Conservation internship in Okinawa trains interns to support turtle conservation during the breeding season. Tasks include assisting with non‑profit operations, advocating for turtle protection, organising events, and educational campaigns. 

Interns learn how non‑profits manage conservation projects and gain experience in event planning and environmental education. Okinawa’s subtropical climate and unique Ryukyuan culture provide an unforgettable backdrop.

Dive In and Make a Difference!

As environmental challenges grow, the world needs more scientists and advocates committed to marine conservation. Marine research internships provide the hands‑on experience and global perspective necessary to launch a career in marine science or simply to make a meaningful contribution during a gap year or vacation. 

With programs spanning Greece, Spain, Costa Rica, Mexico, South Africa, Mozambique, the Seychelles, Fiji, Indonesia, Thailand, and Japan, there is an internship for every passion and skill level. By joining one of these programs, you’ll not only enhance your professional skills but also help safeguard the oceans that sustain us all.