Indonesia - Wallacea Marine Research Objectives

• Gain an internationally recognized SCUBA qualification
• Option to undertake additional PADI dive qualifications above Open Water (additional cost)
• Diving and snorkelling within some of the most diverse reefs in the world
• Working alongside specialist marine scientists
• Attend evening lectures given by the science team on marine ecology
• Participation in the Reef Survey Techniques course
• Learn a variety of survey and monitoring techniques for in-water data collection

• Opwall fee
• Cost of international flights into and out of Jakarta or Makassar
• Cost of internal travel to and from the start and end point of the expedition, plus any hotels you might require. The standard package costs around £583 or $722 (Jakarta) or £368 or $455 (Makassar)
• Extra nights’ accommodation in Jakarta or Makassar costs around £26 or $34 (breakfast included).
• Park entrance fees are £25 or $33.
• Visa costs of approx. £32 or $40 for a VOA for 30days. Approx. £110 for visa extension (31-60 days). Please get in touch with someone from Opwall for more detailed advice.
• Dive equipment rental – £60 or $90 per week for a full dive kit. If you only wish to snorkel and want to hire snorkel equipment, the cost is £30 or $45 per week. Please note that wetsuits cannot be provided – you should bring your own.
• PADI manual and PIC card (if you are completing your Open Water qualification) – £69 or $89 approx.
• Vaccinations and prophylactic medicines – cost can vary depending on your healthcare provider.
• Spending money for snacks/drinks/laundry – Indonesian rupiah only
• All prices in GBP or USD unless specified

Most of our volunteers fundraise for their expedition costs. Find out more.

Climate

At the marine sites during the day, the weather is normally sunny and warm (around 30 degrees Celsius), and the night temperatures drop to around 20-25 degrees Celsius. Being on the coast means there is often a pleasant breeze so it does not always feel this hot. It rains rarely, but when it does it tends to be very heavy for short periods of time.

Fitness level required

Low-Moderate. Some fitness is required for in water activities, but conditions are relatively easy.

Creature comforts

Facilities at Pantai Nirwana are very comfortable; shared dorm rooms have beds with a mattress, stand-up showers, and Western style toilets.

The Hoga Island Marine Station is an established facility that lies within the Wakatobi Marine Park of eastern Indonesia. The station was rebuilt in 2016 and supports a dive centre, lecture theatre, wet-lab as well as a large dining room and kitchen facility. Simple huts owned by members of the local fishing community surround the station and serve as guest accommodation. The island supports reliable phone signal that allows limited internet access.