Dolphin Observation

  Greece

Rural Areas

Term: Fall, Spring, Summer 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: On-going

Description: Observation is done in three ways; the coastal observation, approximately 30%, onboard boats, either the Line Ferry (10-20%) or onboard of Neptune III (10-20%), and by opportunistic sightings (interviewing the crew members of recreational boats).

The aim of the project is to register the existence and numbers of species in the area, places that they frequent and their movements over the years by inputting data onto maps. Furthermore the project aims to identify potential threats to cetaceans and their environment arising from increasing recreational boat traffic in the area. This research is purely observational

Location, identification and interaction with cetaceans will be undertaken respecting all international recognized standards, practices and ethics for cetacean observation!
Binoculars, GPS and cameras will be taken along to observe and record cetacean data. Photography of dorsal fins will also be carried out to develop a photographic database of the individuals within the schools and pods present in the area.

Volunteers will use boats, GPS, wind measurement equipment, binoculars and sound recorders. They will study and record information about the dolphin population and their habits. This information is each year sent to the Ministry of Agriculture.

Swimming among the group or feeding the group is strictly excluded from the practices of this project.

Highlights: After finishing the voluntary placement here you will receive a Certification of Participation.

Qualifications: No necessary qualifications.

Cost in US$: 405

Our private camp is free to all of our participants.

If our basic accommodation doesn't suit you we can arrange for a rented room for you at an additional price.

Price does not include; meals, flights, visas, or insurance.

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Greece Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of depends

Application Process Involves:

• Resume
• Written Application

The Hellenic Foundation for Youth & Volunteering's Mission Statement: The Hellenic Foundation for Youth & Volunteering (HFYV) and its department (Ionian Sea Research Centre, Fiskardo's Nautical & Environmental Club) is a non-profit organization established on the island of Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in Greece in 1998 and deals mainly with the promotion of volunteering and youth mobility. Since 1999 we are a member of the European Commission supported project, European Voluntary Service and in the year 2003 we have been awarded as one of the 4 best projects in Europe. Parallel to this and since 2000 we are running various internship programs for shorter periods of time (1-2 months). From 2008 we work only with independent volunteers from all over the world on long and short term projects, from 2 weeks to 6 months. The Hellenic Foundation for Youth & Volunteering offers courses, volunteer projects/internships, work camps, and the possibility of learning experiences in the fields of research, rescue and environmental protection.

Year Founded: 1998