The Greece Marine & Coastal Conservation program combines practical ecological fieldwork with structured global learning, allowing you to contribute to the protection of Mediterranean marine ecosystems while working towards a recognised Global Citizenship Diploma. Designed for participants who want more than a traditional volunteer placement, this program combines scientific research, environmental conservation, and academic reflection into one immersive international learning experience.
Greece Marine & Coastal Conservation Program Highlights
- Contribute Towards The UN's Development Goal 14 – Life Below Water
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 160 UCAS Points
- Gain Practical Field Experience Alongside Qualified Conservation Professionals
- Learn Survey Techniques, Habitat Monitoring & Species Identification
- Monitor Protected Seagrass Meadows & Coastal Dune Ecosystems
- Contribute Towards The UN's Development Goal 14 – Life Below Water
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 3 US Credits
- Gain Practical Field Experience Alongside Qualified Conservation Professionals
- Learn Survey Techniques, Habitat Monitoring & Species Identification
- Monitor Protected Seagrass Meadows & Coastal Dune Ecosystems
- Contribute Towards The UN's Development Goal 14 – Life Below Water
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 20 ECTS Credits
- Gain Practical Field Experience Alongside Qualified Conservation Professionals
- Learn Survey Techniques, Habitat Monitoring & Species Identification
- Monitor Protected Seagrass Meadows & Coastal Dune Ecosystems
Why Choose the Greece Marine Conservation Program?
Healthy marine ecosystems are essential for protecting biodiversity, stabilising coastlines, and reducing the impacts of climate change. Yet many of these ecosystems remain under increasing pressure from coastal development, pollution, tourism, and changing environmental conditions. Understanding how these habitats are changing requires continuous scientific monitoring and effective conservation management.
The Greece Marine & Coastal Conservation program has been designed to give participants practical experience in ecological field research while contributing directly to ongoing conservation projects. Rather than simply learning about marine conservation, you will actively participate in the scientific methods used to monitor vulnerable ecosystems and assess environmental change.
Throughout your program you will work alongside experienced field assistants applying recognised ecological survey techniques to monitor seagrass meadows, coastal habitats, bird populations, and dune systems. At the same time, you will develop practical research skills, strengthen your environmental knowledge, and gain valuable insight into the role science plays in protecting natural ecosystems.
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Every stage of the program has been designed to help you develop as both a conservation practitioner and a global citizen, combining meaningful field experience with structured reflection to create an international learning experience that extends well beyond traditional volunteering.
Your Global Citizenship Learning Journey
Unlike a traditional volunteer program, every participant follows a structured learning pathway designed to maximise both personal development and practical conservation impact.
Prepare Before You Travel - Before arriving in Greece, you will complete online learning introducing marine ecology, coastal ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, climate change, sustainable development, and ethical environmental fieldwork. This preparation provides valuable scientific context before beginning your field experience.
Learn Through Experience - During your placement you will apply your learning through practical conservation activities including seagrass meadow surveys, coastal habitat assessments, species identification, dune monitoring, ecological data collection, beach clean-ups, and environmental research. Working alongside experienced conservation professionals allows you to develop practical field skills while contributing directly to long-term ecological monitoring.
Reflect On Your Impact - Following your placement, you will complete guided reflective activities that encourage you to evaluate your conservation experience, connect local environmental challenges with wider global biodiversity and climate issues, and demonstrate how your understanding of marine conservation has developed throughout the program. Reflection forms a key part of the Global Citizenship Diploma, helping transform practical field experience into recognised learning.
Background to the Greece Marine Conservation Program
Since 2012, conservation work on the island of Kefalonia has expanded from protecting endangered loggerhead sea turtles to monitoring the wider coastal ecosystems that support them. Long-term research has revealed the importance of understanding not only individual species, but also the complex habitats upon which marine biodiversity depends.
Central to this work are the extensive Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows and coastal sand dune systems that fringe the island. These habitats are recognised as some of the Mediterranean’s most valuable ecosystems, providing essential nursery grounds for marine life, stabilising coastlines, supporting biodiversity, and storing significant amounts of carbon. Their ecological importance has led to both habitats being recognised as vulnerable within international conservation assessments.
Despite their importance, both ecosystems face increasing pressure from climate change, coastal development, erosion, marine pollution, and human activity. Understanding how these habitats are changing requires continuous ecological monitoring and detailed scientific research, providing valuable evidence that supports future conservation planning and environmental management.
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The Greece Marine & Coastal Conservation program provides participants with the opportunity to contribute directly to this important research. Throughout your placement you will collect ecological data, monitor environmental conditions, identify species, and help build one of the most comprehensive long-term datasets on Kefalonia’s coastal habitats. Alongside your practical fieldwork, you will also develop transferable skills including scientific observation, environmental monitoring, critical thinking, teamwork, data recording, and ecological problem solving.
Your Field Experience in Greece
Your field experience forms the practical foundation of the Greece Marine & Coastal Conservation program. Working alongside experienced field assistants and marine conservation specialists, you will apply your learning through a wide variety of ecological research and habitat monitoring activities carried out across Kefalonia’s protected coastline.
Depending on operational requirements, participants are based at either the Skala or Svoronata field station, each providing access to important seagrass meadows, coastal dune systems, and marine research sites. While each field station supports slightly different monitoring activities, both contribute towards the same long-term environmental research program.
A significant proportion of your field experience will involve in-water surveys of Posidonia oceanica meadows, where you will collect geotagged photographic data, identify associated marine species, and assess the condition of these important underwater habitats. The information collected contributes towards understanding long-term ecological change and the impacts of climate change on Mediterranean coastal ecosystems.
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Your fieldwork will also include coastal dune surveys, vegetation monitoring, habitat mapping, species identification, environmental impact assessments, and beach clean-up activities designed to reduce threats posed by marine litter. Participants based at the Svoronata field station may additionally contribute to coastal bird monitoring, with observations submitted to international citizen science initiatives including Cornell University’s eBird database. Throughout the program you will rotate between different research activities, allowing you to gain practical experience across multiple ecological survey techniques while developing a broad understanding of marine and coastal conservation methodologies used by professional environmental scientists.
Your Role & Typical Day in Greece
As a participant in the Greece Marine & Coastal Conservation program, your role is to support ongoing scientific monitoring and conservation initiatives that help protect some of the Mediterranean’s most valuable coastal ecosystems.
Following your arrival and orientation, experienced field leaders will introduce you to the research methods, survey protocols, and conservation techniques used throughout the program. Practical workshops and supervised field activities ensure you develop the confidence and skills required before participating fully in ecological monitoring activities.
Most mornings begin with in-water seagrass surveys, where participants snorkel across designated monitoring sites collecting geotagged photographs and ecological observations used to assess the health of Posidonia oceanica meadows. This work provides valuable scientific data supporting long-term conservation research.
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Afternoons are typically dedicated to coastal habitat monitoring, including sand dune surveys, vegetation assessments, habitat profiling, species identification, litter collection, and environmental impact recording. Depending on seasonal priorities, participants may also assist with drone-supported habitat mapping, coastal bird surveys, or public awareness activities promoting marine conservation.
Evenings provide time to relax, explore Kefalonia, or participate in social activities organised by the local team. Some conservation activities, including light pollution monitoring and seasonal environmental surveys, may occasionally take place after sunset.
Weekly schedules rotate participants between different conservation activities, ensuring you gain practical experience across multiple ecological disciplines while contributing to meaningful long-term environmental research.
Other Things to Consider in Greece
Project Focus - This program is heavily centred around conservation activities rather than the traditional gap year or volunteer travel experience. Expect early morning starts and late afternoon shifts each day. While there is ample downtime, punctuality and full participation in assigned shifts are essential. A strong passion for marine conservation should be your main motivation for joining. While most participants find the program highly rewarding, a small number may feel it lacks the cultural and travel balance offered by other destinations.
Cycling - Fieldwork spans across large areas of sand dunes at the Skala and Svoronata beaches. Volunteers will cycle from the Volunteer House to project sites. All participants must be confident cyclists, as cycling is integral to most shifts. Volunteers should also feel comfortable navigating hilly terrain and walking along beaches in hot weather. Cycling is always done in teams, departing at scheduled times. Helmets and safety vests are provided, and a bicycle safety briefing is given upon arrival. Cycling is permitted only during daylight hours.
Swimming and Snorkelling - Swimming and snorkelling are integral to the marine conservation work at both field stations. Confidence in swimming and prior snorkelling experience are highly recommended. Volunteers should bring a well-fitted mask and snorkel and are encouraged to practice beforehand. Full-face masks are discouraged due to issues with flooding and fogging. While fins and wetsuits are optional, bringing personal equipment is encouraged, though fins can be provided if needed.
During snorkel survey shifts, volunteers will work in designated areas under the supervision of a safety monitor on a paddleboard. Life jackets are provided, and mid-shift breaks on land are included. All snorkel shifts are weather-dependent and will be cancelled if sea conditions are unsafe.
Volunteering with Friends - You are welcome to join the Greece marine conservation volunteer program with a friend. Simply indicate this in the special requirements section of the online application. The team will arrange for you to stay in the same accommodation and project location, and they’ll do their best to match your free days. However, given the wide range of fieldwork covered daily, it may not always be possible to assign you and your friend to the same tasks and shift patterns.
Days Off – Your volunteer work in Greece runs five days a week. In Skala, volunteers typically have staggered days off to ensure continuous project operations. In Svoronata, the group may have the same days off, often scheduled for the windiest days to avoid shift cancellations during working days. Many volunteers use this time to travel around the island.
Day Trip Opportunities
Located in the charming village of Grizata near the harbour town of Sami, this unique experience invites you to explore Kefalonia the traditional way – alongside donkeys! Wander through serene countryside trails, take in sweeping views over Sami Bay, and stroll through lush valleys while learning about the island’s rural heritage. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a slower, more authentic adventure, this gentle trek offers a memorable way to connect with Kefalonia’s timeless charm.
Getting There
• 1–2 hours from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Basic Trek (1 Hour) – 25 GBP
• Longer Trek (2–3 Hours) – 50–75 GBP
• Full Day Trek – 125 GBP+
Just south of Kefalonia lies Zakynthos – a neighbouring island famous for its vibrant atmosphere, lively nightlife, and stunning coastline. Accessible by daily ferry from Pessada or private boat tours, it’s easy to enjoy a day exploring one of Greece’s most iconic destinations. A must-see highlight is Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, a breathtaking cove framed by towering cliffs and turquoise waters, accessible only by boat. Whether you want to soak in the scenery or experience a new island vibe, a day trip to Zakynthos is unforgettable.
Getting There
• 1–3 hours by Ferry – 10–13 GBP
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Optional Full Day Boat Trip from Kefalonia – 40–60 GBP
Set off on a sea kayaking adventure in Fanari for an unforgettable day along Kefalonia’s beautiful coastline. Paddle through calm turquoise waters, explore hidden sea caves, and stop at secluded beaches for swimming and snorkelling. Enjoy lunch on a quiet shore before continuing through dramatic rock formations and tranquil coves. This full-day excursion combines gentle adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation – a perfect balance for outdoor enthusiasts.
Getting There
• 20 minutes–1 hour from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Full Day Kayak Trip – 60 GBP
Unwind with a peaceful sunset cruise along Kefalonia’s picturesque coastline as the sky turns golden and pink over the Ionian Sea. Glide past cliffs, quiet bays, and sandy beaches while enjoying a simple but delicious dinner of local dishes and wine, either on board or at a seaside taverna. It’s an ideal way to relax after a busy week and take in the natural beauty of the island from a new perspective.
Getting There
• 20 minutes–1 hour from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Sunset Cruise with Dinner – 40–60 GBP
A visit to Melissani Lake is one of Kefalonia’s most enchanting experiences. After a short walk through a cool tunnel, board a small rowboat and glide across the crystal-clear waters of this underground lake. Sunlight streaming through the open ceiling turns the water a brilliant blue, creating an otherworldly effect. Many visitors combine this with nearby beaches or sightseeing for a relaxing half-day trip filled with natural beauty.
Getting There
• 1–2 hours from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Cave Entrance – 6 GBP
• Local Beaches – 5 GBP
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Skala - Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Greece volunteer program, you will stay in a Volunteer House located in Kefalonia, a short walk from the vibrant seaside town of Skala. Volunteers share an apartment within a large villa surrounded by fruit and olive trees, providing a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of shade and an inviting outdoor barbecue area.
The Volunteer House is less than 2 km from the main project sites on Skala and Mounda beaches, allowing you to enjoy your free time swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The team also organises weekly social evenings at the houses for volunteers to connect and unwind.
Skala is renowned for its bakeries, tavernas, and restaurants, as well as a long, stunning beach offering water activities and beach volleyball. The town is home to cafes, grocery stores, cash points, pharmacies, and fresh fruit markets, making it an ideal location for shopping and leisure. Mounda, on the other hand, is a tranquil, natural spot perfect for snorkelling and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
You’ll live with fellow volunteers from around the world, fostering friendships while you explore the local culture. The accommodation is comfortable and clean, with shared bedrooms accommodating up to four people in bunk beds. Each house is equipped with electricity, basic cooking facilities, fridges, a small communal area, and hot water. Bathrooms are shared, with showers and western-style toilets.
A washing machine is available for a small fee of 3 euros per wash, and washing lines are provided. Ceiling fans and mosquito net-fitted windows help keep rooms cool. Wi-Fi is available in communal areas, though it is limited to basic online activities and can be intermittent. Volunteers can easily purchase a local SIM card or visit nearby cafes for better connectivity.
Participants in Skala often conduct night shifts for light pollution surveys, so bringing a sleeping bag is recommended. If needed, one can be rented locally for 10 euros when you do volunteer work in Greece.
Field assistants live at the Volunteer Houses when you volunteer in Greece, offering round-the-clock support and ensuring security. Depending on your project site, you will walk, cycle, or take a minivan transfer arranged by the team.
Svoronata - Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
As part of the Greece volunteer program, you may stay in a Volunteer House located a short walk from the serene Ammes beach in Svoronata. Volunteers share a room in an apartment complex, with up to four people per room. The accommodation includes shared bathrooms, kitchenette facilities, communal living areas, and outdoor seating spaces.
Set by the sea, Svoronata offers convenient access to amenities, including Astra Village’s pool and restaurant, mini-markets, and local cafes. A bus stop outside the accommodation provides daily transport to Argostoli, where you’ll find larger grocery stores, ATMs, pharmacies, and various shops.
The accommodation is clean and comfortable, with bedding provided. Sleeping bags can be rented locally for 10 euros if needed. Each apartment features electricity, basic cooking facilities, fridges, and hot water. Volunteers are advised to purchase bottled water for consumption. A washing machine is available at 3 euros per use, and washing lines are accessible outside each room.
Rooms are equipped with fans, and volunteers may bring optional mosquito nets. Wi-Fi is available in communal areas but is limited to instant messaging and social media, with intermittent connectivity. Volunteers can also purchase local SIM cards or visit nearby cafes for better internet access.
Field assistants reside at the Volunteer Houses when you volunteer in Greece to provide 24/7 support and ensure security. Transport to and from fieldwork sites is typically by walking or a minivan arranged by the team.
Wi-Fi
Yes
People Per Room
Up to 4 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
No
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
Sk - 45 Minutes /
Sv - 5 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
Sk - 30 Min Walk / Sv - 20 Min Bus
Meals
Meals are not included during your volunteer trip to Greece. However, the Volunteer Houses in Skala and Svoronata are equipped with basic kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals. Grocery stores and mini-markets are conveniently located nearby.
While participants can arrange their own food plans, it’s worth budgeting for this. Many volunteers enjoy sampling the local cuisine at restaurants once or twice a week. Skala and Svoronata offer fantastic cafes and restaurants, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience authentic Greek culture. Additionally, in Svoronata, it is possible to arrange food delivery directly to the accommodation.
Program Location
FAQ's
As a Greece marine and coastal volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the marine and coastal projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Greece marine and coastal program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Thursday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Greece, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Greece marine and coastal volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Many of our Greece marine and coastal volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Greece marine and coastal volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Greece marine and coastal is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
