Use and improve your scuba diving skills while learning marine survey techniques when you join GVI’s marine conservation expedition located just north of the Mayan village of Mahahual. Receive comprehensive training at this new center and increase your knowledge of marine habitats and conservation techniques. Rescue Diver, Dive Master and PADI specialty courses are also available. Participate in activities such as coral and fish monitoring surveys, turtle nesting surveys, and work with scientists at the field research center. You can also take part in environmental awareness projects in the local community.

*How this program makes a difference*

GVI works alongside local partners in Punta Gruesa as well as with the University of Quintana Roo, to develop policies to combat the rapid coastal development of the area. GVI’s research, and the results obtained from the data recorded, help to shape policy in the management of this region’s fringing reefs and the vital mangrove and wetland areas that border it.

Highlights:

·         Do 1 or 2 dives per day, weather dependant

·         Improve your diving abilities

·         Learn about the Mesoamerican coral reef

·         Gain coral and invertebrate identification skills

·         Learn a variety of marine survey techniques

·         Collect data on fish, coral and other benthos

·         Venture into the surrounding villages and meet the locals

·         Explore nearby Mayan ruins

·         Learn some basic Spanish

Qualifications:

To participate in this unique GVI expedition you must already be qualified to PADI Open Water or equivalent. The following are additional qualifications you can receive on this expedition:

* PADI Dive Qualifications

GVI provides an exceptional standard of training in many internationally recognized qualifications. Included in this expedition are PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course, the PADI specialty course in underwater photography, and the PADI Coral Reef Researcher specialty. You also have the option of doing Divemaster and Rescue Diver including Emergency First Response Certification for an additional fee paid to the local dive school.

* College Credit

Colleges throughout North America have granted college credit for this GVI Expedition. Consult the College Credit page in the Resources section of the GVI website for more information.

* Internships and Field Work

By participating in a 10 week expedition you will be eligible to apply for an Internship or Job working in the field with GVI.

Please visit the GVI website for more information on this program:

http://www.gviusa.com/expeditions/Central%20America/Mexico/marine-conservation-expedition-mexico/home