About Us
Indo Ocean Project is an Indonesian marine conservation NGO dedicated to protecting coral reef ecosystems through science, education, and collaboration. Since 2018, the organization has operated long-term research and conservation programs in Nusa Penida, South Sulawesi (Bira), and Raja Ampat, collecting scientific data that supports marine protected area management and conservation initiatives across Indonesia. Through its evidence-based approach, Indo Ocean Project publishes research in technical reports and peer-reviewed journals to inform conservation planning and marine policy. Its Divemaster & Research Diver Internship combines internationally recognized dive training with hands-on marine research, giving aspiring marine scientists, conservationists, and dive professionals the opportunity to contribute to coral reef monitoring, marine biodiversity research, conservation projects, and environmental education while gaining valuable field experience alongside experienced researchers and instructors.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Choosing an internship is about more than finding the right organization—it's about finding the right fit. Indo Ocean Project fosters a supportive community of aspiring marine scientists, conservationists, and dive professionals who are passionate about protecting Indonesia’s marine ecosystems. With safety, scientific integrity, and meaningful learning at the core of every program, interns contribute to genuine conservation research while gaining hands-on field experience in a collaborative environment. Backed by nearly a decade of operational experience and more than 500 program graduates, the organization provides internationally recognized dive qualifications, practical research skills, and valuable professional networks that help launch careers in marine conservation while advancing science-based conservation efforts across Indonesia.
Requirements
The Divemaster & Research Diver Internship is open to participants of all experience levels, from complete beginners to certified dive professionals. The program is tailored to each participant's existing dive certification and offers the following pathways:
- Rescue Diver: Package #1 Divemaster – 8 weeks
- Advanced Open Water Diver: Package #2 Rescuer – 10 weeks
- Open Water Diver: Package #3 Advanced – 12 weeks
- Non-Diver: Package #4 Zero-Hero – 14 weeks
- Certified Dive Professional: Package #5 Researcher – 6 weeks
Applicants should be confident swimmers, comfortable in the water, and physically fit for diving and fieldwork. No scientific background is required, but a genuine interest in marine conservation is essential.
This is a hands-on internship designed for motivated individuals with a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn, contribute to ongoing marine conservation research, and embrace life in remote coastal communities.
Volunteer experience
No two days are the same during the Divemaster & Research Diver Internship. Each project location hosts a maximum of 12 interns, creating a supportive and collaborative environment where participants learn alongside peers at different stages of the program. With rolling start dates throughout the year, interns have the opportunity to work with both new and experienced team members, encouraging teamwork, mentorship, and shared learning.
The internship follows a six-day work week, with approximately five days dedicated to diving, dive training, and marine conservation fieldwork. One dry day each week is reserved for workshops, classroom sessions, equipment maintenance, project work, and scientific training. This balanced schedule allows interns to develop both practical diving skills and a strong understanding of marine conservation principles.
The program follows a progressive curriculum that combines internationally recognized dive training with marine ecology, scientific research, and conservation techniques. As interns build their diving skills and confidence, they gradually take on greater responsibilities underwater and contribute to more advanced research activities, preparing them for future careers in marine conservation.
Program fees vary depending on the selected internship package and project location, with prices starting from USD 380 per week.
Shared accommodation is provided at all three project locations and is included for the duration of the internship. Participants stay in mixed dormitory-style rooms with fellow interns, creating a supportive and close-knit community where they live, learn, and work together throughout the program.
The accommodation is clean, comfortable, and equipped with essential amenities for everyday living. While it is designed as a practical field station rather than a luxury hotel, it provides a welcoming environment that encourages teamwork, learning, and collaboration. Living alongside interns from around the world also offers valuable opportunities to build lasting friendships and professional connections beyond the internship.
Meals are not included at our Nusa Penida or Bira project locations. Both sites have shared kitchens, nearby supermarkets and local markets, as well as a variety of cafés and restaurants within walking distance. Delicious local Indonesian meals are available from as little as USD $1, while Western-style meals typically cost between USD $5–10.
Our Raja Ampat project is located in a remote area with no nearby restaurants or grocery stores. As a result, a full meal plan is included in the program fees. Meals are home-cooked and typically feature Indonesian-style dishes with rice, vegetables, and a protein such as fish, chicken, eggs, tofu, or tempeh.
Due to the limited availability of ingredients in this remote region, Raja Ampat is not suitable for strict vegans. However, most other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Your internship is demanding, but you will still have plenty of opportunities to explore Indonesia and enjoy your surroundings. Interns regularly organise day trips, hikes, cultural experiences, beach days, snorkelling adventures, and other activities on their days off or after work.
Each of our three locations offers something unique. Nusa Penida is our most social project, located just a short boat ride from Bali with easy access to cafés, beach clubs, restaurants, nightlife, waterfalls, viewpoints, and island adventures. Bira offers a more relaxed coastal lifestyle with beautiful beaches, island hopping, and a glimpse into traditional Indonesian village life. Raja Ampat is the most remote location and is perfect for those who want to disconnect, immerse themselves in nature, and experience one of the worlds most spectacular marine environments.
Many of the strongest friendships are formed outside the classroom, whether over a sunset dinner, a weekend adventure, or a post-dive barbecue.
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