Get your PADI Advanced Open Water and PADI Coral Reef Research Diver qualifications as a member of an expedition team working on critical marine conservation
This is a global coral monitoring methodology all volunteers can get involved with. It is separate to our main study focus with Seychelles National Parks Authority, SNPA. It is not required training but an additional presentation offered to volunteers and interns who stay for longer and have more time available.
Crown-of-Thorns Star Fish RemovalThis is a species of starfish that is harmful to both humans and coral. You will learn how to remove these from the reef safely. It is not required training but an additional presentation offered to volunteers and interns who stay for longer and have more time available.
Plastic Pollution & other TrashLearn about the effect of waste on the ocean and what we can do about it. It is not required training but an additional presentation offered to volunteers and interns who stay for longer and have more time available.
Hazards of the ReefLearn which creatures pose a risk while in the water, best practices to avoid injury, and what to do if injured.
Introduction to Coral WatchIncludes an explanation of what a coral reef is, its importance, how it is formed, and how this ecosystem works.
Threats to the ReefLearn what are the natural and man-made issues threatening the survival of the reefs.
MegafaunaLearn to identify different types of megafauna, larger sea creatures, you might see on a dive near Mahe. You will be asked to also monitor their numbers on your dives.
Coral, Fish, or Invertebrates WorkshopsA few weeks before arrival on the base, you will be assigned to monitoring either coral, fish, or invertebrates. This includes several presentations to introduce you to the specific species.
Species Specific Marine SurveyOnce participants are comfortable with identifying the species on site, they will be trained on the different techniques used to monitor these species underwater.
PADI Advanced Open Water Certification (AOW)5 specialised dives are required to gain this qualification, those we offer include the Boat Dive, Underwater Navigation, Underwater Naturalist, Deep Diver, and Peak Performance Buoyancy. A knowledge review is also required.
PADI Coral Reef Research Diver Distinctive SpecialtyThis is a distinctive specialty unique only to GVI, created in collaboration with PADI. It provides instruction on the different types of reef monitoring available, along with certain skills which are needed to ensure that you are comfortable using monitoring equipment such as tape measures and quadrats and that there is no damage done to the reef while you navigate around the site.
Survey Specific Buoyancy TrainingLearning how to control your buoyancy to ensure that you do not accidentally damage the reef while conducting research.
Emergency Oxygen Therapy OrientationAll volunteers are taught how to provide oxygen to divers in varying states on consciousness.