40 hrs of fieldwork per week
Includes GVI Experiences
Deepen your understanding of critical marine species, including green and loggerhead sea turtles, as you gain valuable experience for your marine conservation career. This internship runs in partnership with highly regarded organisations such as the National Environment and Climate Change Agency (NECCA). The skills and knowledge you gain will contribute directly to the future of this critical marine ecosystem.
Head to the picturesque Greek island of Kefalonia on the Ionian Sea, where you’ll contribute to endangered sea turtle and marine conservation. You’ll receive comprehensive training on local species including green and loggerhead sea turtles, as well as research techniques like seabed mapping, drone surveys, turtle capture-mark recapture, and data analysis. Our base on Kefalonia is just a five-minute walk from the beach, affording you easy access to project sites and an ideal place to relax in your downtime.
Internship activities vary throughout the year, as sea turtles are seasonal visitors to these waters. Year-long projects include identifying and mapping seagrass meadows and sea turtle foraging sites, habitat mapping, coastal plant identification and surveys, beach profiling and clean-ups, bird surveys, light pollution assessments, and sand dune surveys.
Seasonal activities include turtle capture-mark-recapture, megafauna population surveys, harbour surveys, and seagrass snorkel surveys. Depending on your personal goals – whether you’re pursuing higher education or a career in marine conservation – you can tailor your internship project to fit.
A highlight of this internship is the opportunity to work with our local project partners, such as Wildlife Sense, a prominent Greek NGO dedicated to sea turtle conservation in the Ionian Sea. Alongside our partner Seagrass Watch, you’ll learn the role of seagrass identification and mapping for habitat protection. Through these partnerships and others you’ll contribute directly to vital research, conservation initiatives and community engagement efforts aligned with UN SDGs 13 (Climate Action), 14 (Life Below Water) and 15 (Life on Land).
Develop your knowledge and understanding of coastal ecosystems through habitat monitoring, coastal species identification and biodiversity mapping.
Enjoy Greece’s island culture and many beaches as you snorkel, swim, hike, and go birding.
This internship is specifically useful for someone who has or is actively studying the below subject areas at school, university or college, or has an interest in these subject areas.
Some of the example typical activities you could participate in on this program.
Receive comprehensive training on the biology of vital local species, including green and loggerhead turtles and Posidonia oceanica.
Apply and develop your leadership skills as you lead conservation surveys and take on additional duties such as data analysis and fieldwork checklists.
Work on an individual project that aligns with your interests, such as sea turtle foraging data or coastal pollution.
Meet weekly with your small group and mentor to discuss projects and leadership, and to receive feedback.
Assist staff with identification toolkits for individual turtles, collecting observational data and analysing data.
Assist with seagrass mapping and identification; escort drone pilots on shallow area surveys; gain insights on drone use in marine conservation.
Conduct visual assessments of orthophotos from drone surveys to determine the presence of habitats and assess seasonal changes.
Evaluate sand dune and vegetation survey data using GIS and quadrant survey techniques.
In season, observe turtles concentrated in harbour and record information regarding foraging and social behaviours.
Review orthophotos from drone surveys to identify and count megafauna and understand habitat preference.
Take part in snorkeling expeditions to monitor and document Posidonia seagrass meadows.
Assist with wide-scale night studies of coastal light pollution, using specialised photometers.
Some of the partners we work with on base.
Experience the laid-back vibes of Mediterranean living in Kefalonia, Greece, where our research station is situated. Wake up to breathtaking views from your accommodation at Ammes Beach, which is just a five-minute walk from the beach. With its quaint village charm and proximity to the pristine beaches and clear waters of the Ionian Sea, Ammes offers the perfect backdrop for your island adventure.
Kefalonia’s underwater world is teeming with life, from colourful fish to graceful sea turtles gliding through the waves. Contribute to the preservation of endangered sea turtle species, including loggerheads, by joining in conservation efforts aimed at protecting their natural habitat. Your involvement will play a crucial role in ensuring the survival of these majestic creatures.
Since 2013, we’ve been teaming up with local partner organisations to safeguard the sea turtle population in Kefalonia. From conducting surveys to participating in beach cleanups, our efforts are aimed at preserving the island’s precious marine ecosystems.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach or diving into marine conservation efforts, there’s a vibe here that’s all about embracing the beauty of Kefalonia’s natural wonders.
Stay in self-catering accommodation in Ammes Beach, featuring share...
You’ll have access to bicycles for getting around and a project vehicle dedicated to scheduled shifts. Transportation is also provided for ...
Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi at your accommodation to keep in touch with friends and family back home.
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While meals aren’t provided, you’ll have access to a kitchenette in your apartment to cook up your favourite dishes.
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In Greece, from June to September, the summer season brings temperatures ranging from 30 to 40°C. While it’s great for hitting the beach or...
We want you to make the most of the chance to live in – and contribute towards – the most diverse and unique wildernesses and communities on earth. Introducing GVI Experiences – immersive adventure, cultural and wellness activities exclusive to GVI that have been specially designed in collaboration with our local partners to support and stimulate sustainable economic development.
Enhance your impact. Expand your adventure. Explore your world.
Joining a GVI program not only allows you to collaborate with communities or work toward preserving unique ecosystems – but it also offers plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding area or travel further to see what other parts of the region have to offer over weekends.
Field staff are a great source of advice and have helped us put together the following information on local travel options. You can choose to travel before or after your experience with GVI (subject to immigration restrictions), solidifying the lifetime friendships you’ve established on the program. Please note that the below options are not included in the program fee, and would be up to you to arrange at your own expense.
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the scenic trails surrounding Ammes. Trek through lush olive groves, fragrant pine forests and coastal clif...
Explore the harbour, check out the local markets, and keep an eye out for the resident loggerhead turtles at the lagoon. Argostoli also provides ...
Bring your own scuba gear to explore Kefalonia’s underwater world. Whether you’re an experienced diver or new to the sport, Kefalonia...
Enjoy the local food scene at nearby tavernas. From classic Greek dishes like moussaka to fresh seafood, there’s no shortage of delicious o...
Nestled between towering limestone cliffs, this iconic beach offers unparalleled natural beauty. Whether sunbathing, snorkelling or simply marvel...
Hang out at Ammes Beach for the day. Relax on the golden sands, go for a swim and soak up the sun. With sunbeds and beach bars, it’s the pe...
Take a stroll through the streets of Svoronata Village. Check out the whitewashed buildings decorated with colourful bougainvillaea, and take som...
Step back in time with a visit to Kefalonia’s ancient ruins. Soak up history at the Castle of Saint George or enjoy panoramic views from th...
Get ready for a double dose of natural wonder! Start with Melissani Cave, cruising through its pristine waters. Then, venture into the depths of ...
Engaging intimately with a new context teaches global awareness, adaptability and critical thinking – skills highly valued in the modern marketplace. Local and cultural immersion is encouraged on all our programs around the world, and will also be one of the most enjoyable aspects of your experience. Luckily, there are many different activities that you can get involved in during your free time, or before and after your program.
On our community programs, the focus is on cultural topics, while on marine or wildlife programs the emphasis is more on the environmental element. Use your evenings and weekends to explore topics like local cuisine and religion, or how sustainable development challenges are affecting local contexts.
While Greece is a secular state, the majority of the population identify with the Greek Orthodox Church faith.
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Greece has a thriving tourist souvenir industry, and sells many locally made souvenirs such as hand woven carpets and rugs, beautifully decorated jewellery, and leather items. G...
A large part of Greek cuisine features fresh Mediterranean ingredients, often featuring staples such as pita bread, olive oil, and feta cheese. Some of the traditional dishes Gr...
The Greek people’s most notable holiday is the celebration of Greek Independence Day on the 25th of March. There are also many festivals throughout the year, such as the Patras ...
Greek is the official language of Greece and spoken by the vast majority of the population. Other languages spoken in the country are Macedonian, Albanian, Turkish, Arumanian an...
If you’d like to find out what the experience of joining a GVI project is really like, simply contact us and we’ll put you in touch with one of our many Alumni.
We’ll try to match you to an Alum based on your location, nationality, age, stage of academic career, gender, and program interests. This allows you to gain insights into the experience that is most relevant to you.
Depending on your location you might be able to speak to an Alum over the phone or online, or meet up with them face-to-face at a coffee shop nearby. We also run a series of small events around the world where you can speak to GVI Alumni, Ambassadors and staff members.
When it comes to support, we ensure that each participant is provided with unparalleled, 360 degree support, from your initial contact with the GVI Family, all the way through your program, and even after, as you become part of the GVI Alumni Team.
As part of this promise, we will ensure, whenever possible, that one of our dedicated staff will be available to meet you at the airport. In most locations, we also set up a Whatsapp group to help with managing airport arrivals.
We will arrange with you prior to your departure that, should you arrive in the agreed upon pick up window, a member of our staff will be there to welcome you, easily identifiable in a GVI t-shirt or holding a GVI sign and wearing a friendly smile.
This means there will be someone there to greet you as you land, and from there you will be transported to your GVI base to start your adventure and meet the rest of your team.
All of our programs have short-, mid- and long-term objectives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). This enables us to report on our collaborative impact across the world in a streamlined manner, measuring which UN SDGs we are making a substantial contribution to. Furthermore, this will help our local partners and communities measure and visualise their contribution to the UN SDGs.
Prior to your arrival on base, you will be educated about the UN SDGs. Then once you arrive on base, you’ll learn about the specific goals we have in this particular location, our various objectives, and also clarification of how your personal, shorter-term involvement contributes to these.
Our aim is to educate you on local and global issues, so that you continue to be an active global citizen after your program, helping to fulfil our mission of building a global network of people united by their passion to make a difference.
Based on the island of Kefalonia, our project work focuses on conserving loggerhead and green sea turtles and their habitats along the coast of Greece.
We undertake a variety of activities, including snorkel surveys, conducting harbour surveys and bird surveys, as well as learning to identify marine species. We also engage in coastal vegetation maintenance and restoration, utilise drones to explore seagrass and mega fauna foraging sites, and participate in beach profile and cleanup activities. Additionally, we use drones for sea turtle photo-ID at foraging sites and conduct mountain surveys.
We assist in the conservation of endangered sea turtles and directly contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, such as Goal 13: Climate Action, Goal 14: Life Below Water and Goal 15: Life On Land.
GVI Ammes Kefalonia’s long-term Objectives:
1. Document nesting activities for a loggerhead nesting site in the Mediterranean. This can provide evidence of the importance of continued protection of this endangered species and its ecosystem.
2. Carry out seagrass surveys to monitor green turtle foraging areas in the Mediterranean. This too can provide evidence of the importance of continued protection of this endangered species and its ecosystem.
3. Contribute to the efforts of our local partner to protect marine animals in Kefalonia.
4. Reduce the amount of plastic pollution in the turtles’ nesting area.
5. Educate participants on environmentally sustainable practices and the importance and impact of climate change.
A GVI program is an investment in your career. No matter which you choose, you will be working toward improving your employability by mastering new social skills, gaining further technical expertise and earning qualifications in many cases. Most of our staff are, in fact, GVI Alumni, and we have helped many of our Alumni discover, move toward, and earn their own personal dream jobs. Each program includes introductory workshops, ongoing presentations, as well as on-the-ground professional support provided by our very own trained staff members. In addition, our training programs are critical for helping us to ensure the long-term impact of our sustainable development projects around the world.
Learn about the importance of child and vulnerable adult protection best practices and how to apply them while on project.
Introduction to the history and evolution of sustainable development, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and how these related to your project work.
Learn about our country locations and further opportunities available to you during or after your program.
Learn about what seagrass is, its importance, how it is formed, and how this ecosystem works.
An introduction to different survey techniques and best practice guidelines for surveys; introduction to different types of data and how to record information via a datasheet.
Learn about biodiversity and how biodiversity is measured, and classifying different species and how to identify species that indicate the health of the habitat.
Learn about issues with plastic and measures that can be taken to help reduce plastic consumption.
Career paths in social and environmental impact are not as well-established as in other fields. That’s why we’ll provide our interns who have successfully completed their program with our Careers in Sustainable Development course. In this course, you’ll learn about current and emerging opportunities in a range of sectors, allowing you to make the best decision about your future.
This online course, valued at £295, is included in all internships. Full course details can be found here.
Leadership is a critical skill set for anyone looking to make an impact or drive sustainable development. Develop your own leadership style and learn how to set achievable objectives, give effective feedback and manage conflict successfully. After successfully completing the course, which you have the option of doing prior to your in-country program, you’ll receive a certificate from the University of Richmond.
This online course, valued at £295, is included in all volunteering programs. Full course details can be found here.
Learn more about what is contributing to the decline in the health of the world’s ocean and marine species and what can be done to prevent it. You’ll gain a greater understanding of the field of marine conservation, explore how to protect marine ecosystems and discover how you can contribute towards conservation-related initiatives. After successfully completing the course, which you have the option of doing prior to your in-country program, you’ll receive a certificate from the University of Richmond.
This online course, valued at £295, is included in all volunteering programs. Full course details can be found here.
We won’t sugarcoat it — traveling abroad is usually a complex process that carries an element of risk. But this is exactly why we’re passionate about providing extensive support throughout the process as well as the highest safety standards during the in-country phase. We believe that volunteering abroad should not only be impactful, but an enjoyable experience that carries as little risk as possible. This is exactly how we’ve been able to maintain our reputation as the most highly respected volunteering organisations in the sector over the past two decades.
It takes courage to book a GVI program, get on a flight, and head off to somewhere new. Volunteering offers a level of cultural immersion that typical backpacking or holidays ju...
As the saying goes: ‘Expect the best, plan for the worst’. Cliched or not, we take it to heart. This tenet is at the core of how GVI operates when it comes to promoting the heal...
The weather isn’t just a topic for polite small-talk here at GVI. We have emergency action plans in place for all scenarios. So when the weather, or other natural forces, takes ...
Once GVI has matched a participant to a program that suits their passions and goals, our team aims to set the right expectations for them. In the event that false expectations a...
Make the most of our unique programs with these exclusively curated local adventure and wellness experiences.
