VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED


        Sea Sanctuaries Trust seeks volunteer scuba divers in Raja  Ampat                         


Help Conservation in Raja Ampat!  Volunteer and join one of our conservation expeditions.

PIONEERS TRIP DISCOUNT 30% off. Join the first 2 expeditions (Nov/Dec 2012) and get 30% off. But note that you will be setting up, so conditions will be very basic.

 

Our 25 day and 50 day programs provide you with a unique opportunity to spend time in the most biodiverse marine conservation area in the world. Raja Ampat is renowned as the epicentre of marine biodiversity and Sea Sanctuaries Trust has a total of 70,000ha conservation area in the heart of Raja Ampat at the entrance to the Dampier Straights.

We are looking for qualified scuba divers to volunteer to join our project and assist in collecting vital baseline data and monitor changes in fish and coral populations within our conservation areas and to work in our social development programs with the local communities. Volunteers will spend time on the liveaboard dive boat Hang Tuah as well as in a basic homestay in one of the villages working with the local community. Project activities will include teaching English and undertaking fish catch surveys. Volunteers can expect to undertake at least 30 dives + manta tows during their stay. Conditions are basic and the area remote so volunteers need to be patient and tolerant as well as resourceful. Volunteers will be expected to assist with cooking, cleaning, filling tanks and other general activities relating to the operation.

Spaces are available for a maximum of 6 volunteers at any one time.

Discounts are available for volunteers with additional qualifications such as in medicine or education.

Prices ex- Sorong include transfers to the site, all food and accommodation, training, diving, transfers, around the islands. Scuba equipment is available for hire.

Volunteer costs are:

25 day expedition  US$ 3,500

50 day expedition  US$ 6,000

Equipment hire I set MFS/BC/Reg @ US$300 for 25 days

             

              For more information please contact [email protected] or [email protected]

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.   How do I get to Sorong?

   


If you chose to fly to Jakarta or Bali from your start point you will then have several transit flights. From Jakarta & Bali you fly via Makassar to Sorong. You will also probably have to spend a night in either Jakarta or Bali. 

 

  1. 2.           How much will it cost?


Return flights to Sorong ex Bali ~US$450 Ex Singapore  US$600.  Please bear in mind flight schedules change as well as prices. 


  1. 3.           Where can I stay in Bali/Makassar/Manado/Sorong?


There are a range of hotels that you can stay from five star rated to basic.


  1. 4.           Can you recommend a local travel agent?


Yes, they can arrange you domestic flights,transfers and hotels


  1. 5.           What should I bring?


Board shorts, T shirts, swim wear, sarong/wrap, 2 thin towels, sunscreen max, hat, sunglasses, ecofriendly soap/shampoo, basic first aid, any special medications.

Recommend own mask, fins, booties, snorkel, and dive gear if you have it.


  1. 6.           What is the dress code?


Short sleeves (not singlets for women), board shorts or knee-length shorts in the village.


7.            What is the local religion?


Christian


8.            Can I bring my own dive gear?


Yes


  1. 9.           What are the nearest medical facilities?


There is a nurse in the nearby village, basic clinic in Waisai (40nm), Hospitals in Sorong (50nm).


  1. 10.        What are the options in the event of DCS/accident?


There is oxygen on board Hang Tuah for immediate treatment. The nearest chamber is in to Bali/Darwin or Manado


  1. 11.        What communications are available?


A satellite phone is available  for sms (text) and emergency calls only.


  1. 12.        Can I do scuba training on site if I am not a qualified diver?


No, but we do accept non divers, who can join all activities except the dive surveys.


  1. 14.Do I need to take anti –malarial pills and what other vaccinations do I need, if any?


Please follow the recommendation of your doctor.