Marine Conservation Program on Koh Tao
Become a Conservation Specialist Diver
Discover the world of marine conservation with our Conservation Specialist program, a 2-week course designed to broaden your understanding of marine ecosystems, build practical skills, and provide you with the opportunity to pursue your own research interests.
This program is an alternative to our Core Conservationist program, so there’s no need to complete both.
Simply choose the one that fits your schedule and goals – Conservation Specialist is perfect for those with two weeks available who want a more in-depth and research-focused experience.
Conservation Specialist Program Core Modules
- Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP): Comprehensive training in fish, invertebrate, and substrate monitoring.
- Coral Taxonomy & Identification I & II: Gain a deeper understanding of coral species, their taxonomy, and ecological significance.
- Black Turtle Dive Sea Slugs: Explore the fascinating diversity of sea slugs, their behavior, and their importance in marine ecosystems. As this is an in-house course, you’ll have the unique opportunity to participate in real research projects we are conducting, contributing directly to ongoing studies.
- Sea Turtles Ecology & Monitoring: Learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation of these iconic marine creatures.
Independent Project
One of the highlights of this program is the Independent Project, where you’ll have the chance to lead a conservation-focused initiative of your choice.
Whether it’s creating educational materials, developing conservation strategies, or exploring a specific research question, you’ll work closely with our team to design and implement a project that aligns with your interests and contributes to meaningful marine conservation efforts.
Additional Dives
- Coral Reef and Safari Dives: Apply what you’ve learned while observing marine life in its natural habitat.
- Assessment Dives: Refine your skills and receive feedback to ensure you’re confident and prepared.
This program is ideal for anyone interested in conservation, whether you’re taking your first steps into the field or looking to deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems. It’s also a great way to experience the camaraderie and support of a like-minded community.
Join us for two weeks of scuba diving, learning, and personal growth, and become an active contributor to marine conservation efforts.
Included in Our Conservation Specialist 14 Day Program
- 14 Conservation Dives
- 3 Conservation Diver Certification
- Ecological Monitoring Program
- Coral Taxonomy & Identification
- Sea Turtles Ecology & Monitoring
- 1 Black Turtle Dive Certification:
- Black Turtle Dive Sea Slugs Ecology & Monitoring
- Black Turtle Conservation Specialist certificate of completion
- Rental of full set of premium Aqualung scuba equipment
- FREE use of a Suunto dive computer
- Logbook
- Maximum 4 students per Conservation Diver Instructor
- Black Turtle Dive customer and environmental promise
Conservation Specialist Program: What You Will Learn
Are you a passionate scuba diver with a deep-rooted interest in marine conservation? Do you dream of contributing to research efforts, expanding your knowledge of marine ecosystems, and becoming a true advocate for our oceans?
If so, our 14-day Conservation Specialist program on Koh Tao is the perfect opportunity to turn your passion into action.
This comprehensive program combines intensive classroom learning, hands-on field experience, and specialized certifications, empowering you to become a confident and knowledgeable marine conservationist.
You’ll master survey techniques, refine identification skills, contribute to real-world research projects, and gain specialized knowledge in sea turtle ecology and nudibranch identification, all while exploring the breathtaking underwater world of Koh Tao.
Koh Tao: Your Tropical Research Haven
Koh Tao, aptly named “Turtle Island,” is a diver’s paradise renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and laid-back island vibes. With its warm, clear waters and abundant biodiversity, Koh Tao provides an ideal backdrop for your marine conservation journey.
How to Get to Koh Tao
Reaching Koh Tao from Bangkok is easy. You can choose from several convenient options:
Fly: Take a direct flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui (USM) and then hop on a ferry to Koh Tao.
Train: Travel overnight by train from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani and then connect to a ferry to Koh Tao.
Bus and Ferry: Combine a bus journey from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani with a ferry transfer to Koh Tao.
Koh Tao’s Weather
Koh Tao enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April.
However, diving is possible throughout the year, with water temperatures averaging a comfortable 26-29°C (79-84°F).
Your Conservation Specialist Journey
Our 14-day program is designed to immerse you in the world of marine conservation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what awaits you:
Week 1: Foundations in Marine Ecology and Survey Techniques
Day 1: Marine Ecology and Buoyancy Mastery
Begin your journey with an introduction to marine ecology, exploring the intricate relationships between different species and their roles in maintaining a healthy ocean.
Learn about the diverse marine ecosystems found around Koh Tao, from coral reefs to rocky shores and open ocean.
Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing marine environments and the importance of conservation efforts.
Afternoon: Fluid Mechanics Dive
Put your buoyancy skills to the test with a Fluid Mechanics dive, focusing on mastering precise control and minimizing your impact on the delicate coral reef environment.
Learn how to fin effectively, maintain neutral buoyancy, and navigate through the water with minimal disturbance to marine life.
This dive not only enhances your diving skills but also instills responsible diving practices, ensuring you can explore the underwater world without causing harm.
Reef Safari dive
Learn how to identify key fish families and invertebrate species, and identify substrate composition focusing on those commonly found on Koh Tao’s reefs.
Evening: Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s learning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Day 2:
Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP)
Morning: Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Afternoon: EMP Invertebrates Lecture
Dive into the fascinating world of marine invertebrates, learning about their diverse forms, functions, and ecological roles.
Discover the importance of invertebrates in marine ecosystems, from filter feeders that maintain water quality to predators that control populations of other species.
Learn how to identify key invertebrate groups, such as crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms.
Afternoon: EMP Fish Lecture
Explore the diverse world of reef fish, learning about their adaptations, behaviors, and ecological roles.
Discover the importance of fish in maintaining healthy coral reef ecosystems, from herbivores that control algae growth to predators that regulate populations of other fish species.
Learn how to identify key fish families and species, focusing on those commonly found on Koh Tao’s reefs.
Day 3:
EMP – Fish
Morning: Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Afternoon: EMP Fish Dive
Participate in an EMP Fish dive, applying your newfound knowledge to identify and document fish species, recording their abundance and behavior.
Contribute to ongoing research projects and gain valuable experience in underwater data collection.
Afternoon: EMP Invertebrates Dive
Put your knowledge into practice with an Ecological Monitoring Program Invertebrates dive, conducting surveys to identify and document invertebrate species in their natural habitat.
Learn how to use standardized survey methods and collect data on invertebrate abundance, diversity, and distribution.
Contribute to ongoing research projects and gain valuable experience in underwater data collection.
Evening: Debriefing and Data Review
Review the data collected during the EMP Fish dive, learning how to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss the importance of monitoring fish populations for understanding reef health and resilience.
Day 4:
EMP – Substrate
Morning: EMP Substrate Lecture
Delve into the importance of understanding the composition of the seabed, or substrate. Learn how it influences the types of corals and other organisms that can thrive in an area.
Learn how to identify different types of substrate, including sand, rubble, rock, and various growth forms of coral and their health status. Understand the role of substrate in reef health and how changes in its composition can indicate environmental stress.
Afternoon: Substrate Safari Dive
Embark on a Substrate Safari dive, putting your coral identification skills to the test.
Explore different reef habitats, identifying various coral species and documenting their abundance and health.
Gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of coral reef ecosystems.
EMP Substrate Dive
During the substrate dive, learn how to assess the composition of the seabed, identifying different types of coral growth forms and their health status (healthy, bleached, etc.), algae, and other substrate components.
Evening: Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s learning materials, including coral identification guides, substrate classification charts, and marine conservation concepts.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s challenges.
Day 5 OFF
Day 6:
Coral Taxonomy
Morning: Coral Taxonomy Lecture
Delve into the fascinating world of coral taxonomy, learning about the different types of corals, their growth forms, and their ecological roles.
Learn how to identify key coral families and species, focusing on those commonly found on Koh Tao’s reefs.
Afternoon: 2 Coral Taxonomy Safari Dives
Continue your exploration of coral biodiversity with two Coral Taxonomy Safari dives. During these dives, you’ll focus on identifying the coral genera we covered in the lecture, applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios.
You’ll use underwater identification guides to help you confidently identify various coral genera based on their colony formation. The goal here is to develop a strong understanding of coral classification and to be able to clearly identify different genera in the field.
Evening: Debriefing and Project Planning
Review the day’s findings, discuss challenges encountered during the dives, and share your observations with fellow conservationists.
Start developing your research question and methodology for your independent project.
Day 7
Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Begin brainstorming and planning for your independent research project, which you’ll conduct in Week 2.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Independent Project – Data Collection
Begin collecting data for your independent research project, applying the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the week.
Conduct surveys, observations, or experiments relevant to your research question.
Day 8:
Independent Project – Data Collection
Begin collecting data for your independent research project, applying the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the week.
Conduct surveys, observations, or experiments relevant to your research question.
Assessment Coral Tax Dive
Put your identification skills to the test with an Assessment Coral Tax Dive, demonstrating your ability to accurately identify key coral genera during a survey.
This dive brings together what you’ve learned in the EMP Substrate and Coral Taxonomy modules, allowing you to confidently identify coral genera based on their growth forms and other key characteristics.
Receive feedback from your instructors and refine your identification techniques.
Assessment EMP Dive
Participate in an Assessment EMP dive, demonstrating your ability to conduct fish and/or inverts surveys and collect data using scientific methods.
Evening: Debriefing and Discussion
Review the day’s findings, discuss challenges encountered during the dives, and share your observations with fellow conservationists.
Engage in discussions about the importance of accurate species identification for marine research and conservation.
Day 9
Black Turtle Dive – Sea Slugs Lecture
Attend a lecture delving deeper into sea slug biology, ecology, and their importance in marine ecosystems.
Black Turtle Dive Sea Slug Certification – Introduction & Dive
Embark on a unique journey into the world of sea slugs (nudibranchs) with the Black Turtle Dive Sea Slug Certification.
Learn about their fascinating biology, vibrant colors, and ecological roles in marine ecosystems.
Data Review and Analysis
Review and analyze the data collected throughout the week, learning how to interpret results and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss the implications of your findings for marine conservation and management.
Discuss the importance of monitoring fish populations, invertebrates, and substrate composition for understanding reef health and resilience.
Day 10
Sea Slugs and Data Analysis
2 Sea Slug Dives
Start your sea slug identification training with two dives, focusing on recognizing common species and their distinguishing features. During these dives, you’ll apply your knowledge from the class and actively contribute to our in-house research project. You’ll participate in real data collection, identifying sea slugs and recording important data for our research initiatives.
Deepen your sea slug expertise with another dive aimed at finding and identifying these fascinating creatures. This dive gives you the opportunity to practice one more time and directly contribute to our research by applying your skills to gather data for our internal research projects.
Afternoon: Independent Project – Data Collection
Continue collecting data for your independent research project, applying the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the week.
Conduct surveys, observations, or experiments relevant to your research question.
Share your progress on your independent research project and receive feedback from diving instructors and peers.
Day 12
Study Time and Reflection
Review the day’s elearning materials, including marine ecology concepts and dive safety guidelines.
Reflect on your experiences and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Afternoon: Independent Project – Data Collection
Continue collecting data for your independent research project, applying the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the week.
Conduct surveys, observations, or experiments relevant to your research question.
Afternoon: Sea Turtle Ecology & Monitoring Lecture
Transition into the fascinating world of sea turtles, learning about their biology, behavior, ecological importance, and the threats they face.
Discover the different sea turtle species found in Koh Tao waters and understand their nesting and migration patterns.
Learn about sea turtle monitoring techniques and how you can contribute to their conservation.
Afternoon: Sea Turtle Snorkel
Enjoy a relaxing snorkel trip to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat, applying your newfound knowledge of their behavior and ecology.
Day 13
Coral Taxonomy II Lecture
Expand your coral identification knowledge with a lecture focusing on more advanced taxonomy and identification techniques.
You’ll learn to identify additional coral genera that are crucial for surveys, including mushroom corals.
Afternoon: Tax Safari II Dives
Embark on a Coral Taxonomy Safari II dive, where you’ll apply your newly acquired coral identification skills to explore and identify a broader range of coral species for the first time.
On the second Coral Taxonomy Safari II dive, you’ll practice again to refine those skills, build confidence and ensure a solid grasp of the coral genera you’ve learned.
Evening: Debriefing and Discussion
Review the day’s findings, discuss challenges encountered during data collection, and share your progress with fellow conservationists.
Day 14
Sea Slugs Data Review
Debriefing and Sea Slug Identification
Review the day’s findings, discussing any challenges encountered during the data collection process. Together, we’ll ensure all identified sea slugs are accurately recorded in our internal research database. This is an essential step for utilizing the data in ongoing conservation and research projects.
Afternoon: Independent Project
Finalize your independent research project, ensuring all data is analyzed, conclusions are drawn, and the presentation is polished.
Independent Project Presentations
Present your independent research findings to your peers and instructors, showcasing your research skills and contributing to the collective knowledge of marine conservation.
Reflect on your experiences and the knowledge you’ve gained throughout the program.
Celebrate the completion of the program with your fellow conservationists and instructors, sharing stories and experiences from the past two weeks.
Final Exam and Q&A
Review key concepts and prepare for the final exam, covering all aspects of the program, including marine ecology, survey techniques, species identification, and conservation strategies.
Engage in a Q&A session with your instructors, clarifying any remaining questions and solidifying your knowledge.
Final Exams
Complete the final exam, demonstrating your comprehensive understanding of marine conservation principles and practices.
Discuss your future plans and how you can continue your involvement in marine conservation, whether through further education, volunteering, or pursuing a career in this rewarding field.
Beyond the Conservation Specialist Program
Our Conservation Specialist program is not just a 14-day experience; it’s a launching pad for a lifelong journey of learning, exploration, and conservation.
We’ll provide you with resources and guidance to continue your involvement in marine research and conservation efforts, connect with local and global organizations, and become a true advocate for our oceans.
Join the Conservation Specialist Movement
Are you ready to take your passion for marine conservation to the next level? Join the Black Turtle Dive 14-day Conservation Specialist program on Koh Tao and become a champion for our oceans.
CONSERVATION SPECIALIST: 33,000 THB
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Conservation Specialist 14 Day Conservation program?
Discover the world of marine conservation with our Conservation Specialist program, a 2-week course designed to broaden your understanding of marine ecosystems, build practical skills, and provide you with the opportunity to pursue your own research interests.
This program is an alternative to our Core Conservationist program, so there’s no need to complete both.
Simply choose the one that fits your schedule and goals—Conservation Specialist is perfect for those with two weeks available who want a more in-depth and research-focused experience
What is the cost of the Conservation Specialist 14 Day Conservation program?
The cost of our Conservation Specialist Conservation program is 33,000 THB.
The program is scheduled over 14 days and is an alternative to our Core Conservationist 7 day program.
Upon completion of the Conservation Specialist Conservation program, you will have completed 14 conservation training dives and earned 3 Conservation Diver certifications and a Black Turtle Dive certificate of completion.
How long does the Conservation Specialist program last for?
Our Conservation Specialist Conservation program is scheduled over 14 days and in addition to theoretical learning, this program includes an introduction to scientific diving, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
Conservation Specialist is perfect for those with two weeks available who want a more in-depth and research-focused conservation experience
What is the minimum age for the Conservation Specialist program?
The minimum age to enrol on our Conservation Specialist program is 12 years of age.
This program is ideal for anyone interested in conservation, whether you’re taking your first steps into the field or looking to deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems. It’s also a great way to experience the camaraderie and support of a like-minded community.
Do you get a certificate for the Conservation Specialist program ?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the Conservation Specialist 14 day program , you will receive 3 Conservation Diver certifications and a Black Turtle Dive Certificate of Completion.
Join us for two weeks of diving, learning, and personal growth, and become an active contributor to marine conservation efforts!
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