Search
CONTACT US

Greece: Volunteer work in the turtle project on Crete

Arrival in Crete

Upon your arrival at the airport, one of our dedicated RGV team members will warmly welcome you and provide transportation directly to the deployment site. As you arrive at your new destination, you will have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the surroundings, your place of residence, and your workspace, immersing yourself in the unique environment.

At the deployment site, you will be introduced to your fellow colleagues, forming bonds that will foster a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. The esteemed Turtle Organization team will be present on-site, ready to guide and assist you throughout your journey.

In addition to the Turtle Organization team, our local RGV team will regularly visit the site, ensuring that you receive all the necessary support and guidance. You can rest assured that they are readily available whenever you need assistance, making your experience smooth and enriching. Your comfort and well-being are of utmost importance to us, and both teams are dedicated to making your time with us fulfilling and rewarding.

Orientation program on Crete

The orientation program is scheduled to commence the following day, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of working on the project. During this session, the dedicated team will offer detailed insights into all aspects of their program and activities, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for your tasks.

In addition to task instructions, the orientation program encompasses essential information about daily life on-site, cultural nuances, and adherence to house rules, fostering a harmonious and respectful environment.

The orientation serves as a valuable foundation for your journey, equipping you with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in your role while immersing yourself in the local culture and community. Our aim is to make your experience fulfilling and enriching, and the orientation program is designed to set you up for success throughout your time with us.

Your first day in the project

At the outset of your assignment, we will have a detailed discussion to determine your exact working hours, ensuring a clear understanding of your schedule. On the first day, you will have the opportunity to acquaint yourself with the team members, familiarize yourself with the work processes, and receive a comprehensive briefing on your specific tasks and responsibilities.

Throughout your entire stay on Crete, our dedicated team will be readily available to support you in any way possible. Whether you have questions, encounter challenges, or need assistance, our team is just a call away. Your well-being and success in the project are of utmost importance to us, and we are committed to ensuring that your experience on the island is positive and rewarding. Feel free to reach out to us at any time, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Your Roles and Responsibilities as a Volunteer

As a valued volunteer, your support will be crucial in various aspects of the organization. Depending on where your assistance is most needed, you may be involved in the following tasks:

1. Beach and Hatchery Surveillance: Conduct day and night shifts to monitor the beaches and hatcheries, ensuring the safety and well-being of sea turtles.

2. Research Support: Assist in data collection and logging, contributing to vital research efforts.

3. Engage with Residents and Tourists: Foster dialogues with both local residents and tourists, raising awareness about sea turtle conservation.

4. Awareness and Fundraising: Help in raising awareness and funds for the protection of sea turtles.

5. Develop Practical Solutions: Collaborate in devising and implementing practical solutions that align with the realities of life on Crete, ensuring the conservation of sea turtles.

During your assignment on Crete, you can typically expect to work around six hours a day. The exact tasks and working hours will be discussed with your local coordinator. As the work involves different shifts, there might be occasions when you’re busy at night or on weekends. However, rest assured that you will have ample free time to explore the island and enjoy your volunteering experience.

No previous experience or specialized knowledge is required to participate in the sea turtle project. Nonetheless, being a team player and approaching your tasks with enthusiasm and dedication are essential. Friendliness and a deep love for animals will also be advantageous while working on this meaningful project.

 

Volunteer Camp in Crete

Your accommodation in Crete is a welcoming volunteer camp, designed to accommodate up to 20 volunteers in their own tents. The camp provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for all participants. You will have access to a WiFi connection throughout the camp, allowing you to stay connected with ease. Additionally, phones, coin-operated washing machines, and free lockers are available to safeguard your valuables.

The sanitary facilities at the camp are well-maintained and equipped, and the showers provide hot water for your convenience. Rest assured that your basic needs will be taken care of during your time at the volunteer camp.

The location of the camp is favorable, with your assignment site just a short 5 to 10-minute walk away. Within walking distance, you’ll find various shops, restaurants, bars, and the beautiful beach. If you wish to explore the next town, which is approximately three kilometers away, you can easily take a bus.

The surrounding area is generally considered safe, providing you with the freedom to move around independently and confidently on foot. Your volunteer camp serves as a comfortable and convenient base for your meaningful experiences in sea turtle conservation on the beautiful island of Crete.

Central Crete

Crete, situated in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, proudly stands as the largest and most captivating Greek island. Its natural beauty is awe-inspiring, with towering mountains and untamed gorges that create a mesmerizing landscape. The island is a microcosm of the mainland, showcasing a harmonious blend of quaint traditional villages, bustling cities, and majestic peaks. With such diverse offerings, Crete has become a favored destination, drawing travelers from all over Europe.

As you explore the island, the air is infused with the enchanting scents of thyme, sage, and oregano, a result of the thriving cultivation of aromatic herbs. Crete’s agriculture primarily centers around vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards, adorning the countryside with lush grapevines and ancient olive trees. Remarkably, Crete is a prominent exporter of olive oil within the European Union, and near Kavousi in the northeast, you can encounter one of the world’s oldest olive trees.

Administratively, Crete is divided into four prefectures: Heraklion, Chania, Rethymnon, and Lassithi. The vibrant city of Heraklion serves as the island’s capital and largest city, teeming with energy from its youthful population and student community. It is also the base for our organization, making it an ideal location for combining work with vacation and leisure.

Whether you choose to embark on an internship or volunteer work, your experience in Crete will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint in your heart and memory. Embrace the magic of this enchanting island, where your journey of work and adventure will be etched forever in the tapestry of your life.

 

  • Day and night shift surveillance of beaches and hatcheries
  • Research support: collect and log data
  • Dialogue with residents and tourists
  • Awareness raising and fundraising
  • Development and implementation of practical solutions to protect the turtles, which are compatible with the reality of life of the people on Crete

Fill in the below form and we will email you a brochure.

included Services

Before departure

  • Individual advice and support from our trained RGV team in Munich
  • Organization including placement in the project and coordination of your stay on site
  • Assistance with preparation: visa, health care, travel insurance, etc.
  • Non-binding flight advice
  • Travel ABC with packing list for your travel preparation
  • RGV t-shirt

On site

  • Orientation program with the team on site
  • Support and guidance from the on-site team
  • RGV 24h emergency number
  • Airport transfer on the agreed arrival and departure days
  • Accommodation in the volunteer camp

After return

  • Participation confirmation of your voluntary commitment
  • Reflection course on your experiences abroad
  • Evaluation sheet and optional feedback discussion

not included Services

  • Round trip
  • Private expenses on site
  • Travel and cancellation insurance
  • Visa and Vaccinations
  • All nights outside your agreed accommodation
  • Public transport and extra transfers

  • Starts Sundays and Wednesdays
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Accommodation in volunteer camp
  • Runs from May til mid-October

From$1,557 / Per Person

Connected Trips

Not a member?

Sign up now and save up to 30% on trips, tours, activities and accommodation.

DISCOVER THE LIMITLESS HORIZONS – EMBARK ON YOUR JOURNEY AS A TRINUS EXPLORER!

Ask about customised groups

If you are a group of 4 or more people, we can help you tailor your trip. We’ll take care of all the practicalities and make sure all the details are taken care of. 

All groups have a personal travel consultant with a 24/7 emergency phone.

Specialists in study tours, families, school groups and large friend groups.

Ask Us Anything

Fill in your details below with your queries and one of the
Trinus Team will come back to you asap.

Free Membership

Sign up for free and save on your dream journey today.Get exclusive discounts
and limited time offers on tours, activities, accommodation and flights.

[wppb-register]

Member login

Members save from 5% to 30% on trips, tours, activities, flights and accommodation.