Take part in a snorkelling-based citizen science activity that helps observe and report on reef health. You’ll learn about the Great Barrier Reef, the species that live there, and the conservation challenges affecting coral reef ecosystems.
Marine Conservationist for a Day is a practical Great Barrier Reef experience for travellers who want to learn, snorkel and contribute in a meaningful way. Join the O2E team for reef education, citizen science and a snorkelling-based survey activity near Cairns, while gaining a deeper understanding of the pressures facing one of the world’s most important marine ecosystems. Participants meet at the Reef Terminal in Cairns at 8:00am, with the day usually returning around 5:00pm.
Take part in a snorkelling-based citizen science activity that helps observe and report on reef health. You’ll learn about the Great Barrier Reef, the species that live there, and the conservation challenges affecting coral reef ecosystems.
This is a one-day experience from Cairns, designed for visitors who want a short but purposeful conservation activity.
The day may include reef education, snorkelling, citizen science survey work, island time and lunch. Some dates may operate on Fitzroy Island, while others may operate on Green Island, depending on the date selected.
Participants must be 18 years or older, or 14–17 with an accompanying adult. You must be a competent swimmer, able to swim at least 50 metres, float and snorkel without assistance.
This is an outdoor marine experience, so activities may change depending on weather, ocean conditions, visibility, ferry schedules and safety requirements.
You should be comfortable swimming, snorkelling, spending time in the sun and participating respectfully in a group setting.
Start dates vary by island and availability. Please check current dates before booking.
This experience can be booked as a single-day activity or across multiple days, depending on your interests and available dates.
Some participants choose to join for more than one day so they can experience both reef locations, as each site offers a different view of the Great Barrier Reef, island environment and conservation learning. Availability varies, so please check current dates and locations before booking.
The day includes one scheduled reef conservation experience. Activities may include reef education, snorkelling, citizen science survey work, lunch and time on the island.
Lunch is included. Please bring your own water bottle, snacks and any extra money for additional food, drinks or souvenirs.
*Please note some items are not included in the project fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country tours and return airport transfer (unless mentioned above). Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the O2E Volunteers Terms and Conditions.
Direct funding to wildlife, marine, and community-based conservation fieldwork.
Snorkelling equipment is included for scheduled in-water activities, including mask, snorkel, fins and any required safety gear for the day.
Locally sourced lunches that support community food systems and local traders.
Taxes, permits, and legal charges that uphold international and local standards.
Super volontariat à Cairns!
