Croatia – Marine Conservation in Split – Images

Volunteers will stay in the beautiful coastal town of Omiš. It is located 25km south of Split, the second largest city in Croatia. Omiš is a small town filled with culture and traditional activities during the summer. It used to be a pirate town during the Middle Age and it’s now a very popular destination for families and fans of adventure sports. We encourage volunteers to explore these tours and excursions in their time off. There’s so much to see and do! There are hiking spots, zipline, rafting and kayaking tours, rock climbing and canyoning and so much more! In addition, the beautiful islands make for a magical day-trip in the summer! The local team will be sure to give you the best tips on places to visit.

If you envision the Croatian coast, you likely see clear Mediterranean waters, bustling beaches, and abundant sea life. Dedicated marine conservationists are crucial for maintaining water cleanliness and combating pollution in the Dalmatian region and the broader Adriatic Sea. The project actively involves volunteers in restoring the marine ecosystem.

In collaboration with a local diving school, the project ensures volunteers acquire SSI (Scuba Schools International) diving certifications. This program utilizes scuba diving skills for impactful sea and river clean-ups, promoting healthier seas, thriving ecosystems, and a clean coastline. Volunteers play a pivotal role in supporting a dedicated community and raising awareness about environmental preservation.

The primary goal is to clean and protect the sea area, involving volunteers in restoring and maintaining the marine ecosystem. Utilizing scuba diving skills, volunteers actively participate in ocean clean-ups and activities to keep the ecosystem pristine. These programs are vital for the ecosystem’s long-term stability, and volunteers significantly impact the region.

Volunteers dedicate 4-6 hours, sometimes more, during mornings and afternoons, focusing on removing trash, especially plastic, from the water. Safety is paramount, with diving lessons ensuring a secure environment. Continuous local support addresses concerns during volunteer participation.

Volunteer duties include:

• Restore and maintain the health of the ecosystem
• Participate in ocean cleanups
• Collect data on different areas of the ecosystem
• Help educate others on issues surrounding the ecosystem in the Dalmatian region
• Collect waste from the surrounding areas and dispose of them efficiently.

Note: Travel time from the volunteer accommodation to the project site in Omiš is around 30-45 minutes.

Weekly Diving Plan:

Internet: Wi-Fi is included.

Laundry: Laundry can be arranged with the hostel staff for an extra fee.

Accommodations: Volunteers will stay in a sustainable and social hostel in the center of Omiš, walking distance from the volunteer program. Accommodation is dorm-style with 4 to 8 people per room, mixed gender. There is an option to upgrade to a private or double room for an extra fee, based on availability.

Food: Three meals are provided each day. Special diets might be available on request (e.g. vegetarian, vegan, etc).

• Minimum 18 years old
• Basic level of English
• Criminal background check
• No serious medical issues which would prohibit diving activities

We want volunteers to know the natural and cultural surroundings and will provide you with helpful tips and tricks that will help discover Split and Croatia like a local! The shifts will last between 3 and 5 hours per day and take place either in the morning, in the afternoon, or in the evening (depending on the program), which will leave you with plenty of free time to go explore, take a stroll around the surroundings, catch the most important sites, interact with the locals or relax, and of course, weekends off as well! Popular travel options:

• The historic city of Split and a visit to Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO heritage site
• City of Dubrovnik
• National park Plitvice
• National park Krka
• Capital city of  Zagreb.
• During the summer is certainly worth visiting one of 1000 islands in Croatia.

Organized tours can also be arranged for an extra fee.