The Project
The Ocean Stewardship Program is a well-established marine conservation initiative based in the picturesque Koh Rong Archipelago of southwest Cambodia. Nestled within a carefully managed conservation area, the program focuses on empowering local coastal communities while preserving one of the region’s most pristine marine ecosystems. This remarkable setting offers the perfect blend of relaxation, skill-building, and meaningful impact—making it an ideal project for individuals seeking a rewarding break from their career or a fulfilling way to spend their time post-retirement.
Since its inception, the program has been at the forefront of marine conservation in Cambodia. Early milestones include establishing the country’s first officially recognized marine reserve, implementing an artificial reef initiative, launching an environmental education program for youth, and pioneering solid waste management systems across the archipelago.
By joining the Ocean Stewardship Program, you’ll have the rare opportunity to collaborate with experienced professionals and directly contribute to conservation efforts that shape the future of Cambodia’s marine ecosystems. Your work will support the management of the country’s first Marine National Park, an internationally recognized marine reserve. You’ll be among a select group actively collecting and analyzing critical marine survey data—an effort that is vital for ensuring the sustainable future of this extraordinary region.
Beyond the technical work, your involvement promotes long-term environmental preservation and empowers local communities to thrive alongside their natural resources. For those looking to combine purpose with adventure, this program offers an unparalleled chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the lower Mekong region while leaving a meaningful legacy in marine conservation.
The Experience
The Ocean Stewardship Program offers an immersive blend of training, conservation, and community engagement, tailored to inspire and equip participants for meaningful impact. Here’s a breakdown of the enriching activities awaiting you:
Week 1: Dive Into Adventure
The first week is dedicated to completing your PADI Advanced Open Water Certification, guided by a qualified instructor who ensures every step is engaging and accessible. Already certified? Use this week to refresh your dive skills, maintain our coral nurseries, or contribute to impactful community projects. These might include environmental education workshops or beach clean-ups, perfect for easing into your new environment while making a difference.
Weeks 2-3: Explore Coral Reef and Seagrass Ecology
With your certification in hand, you’ll embark on a Coral Reef Ecology course, featuring lectures, workshops, and hands-on in-water training. Depending on the season, you may also have the chance to participate in a Seagrass Ecology course, a fascinating introduction to monitoring these vital underwater habitats.
Weeks 3-4: Contributing to Marine Research
As you progress, the program reaches its highlight: marine survey data collection. Two dives or snorkels per day (weather permitting) will focus on gathering data essential for the sustainable management of Cambodia’s Marine National Park. Surveys target coral, fish, and invertebrate populations, substrate assessment, and seagrass monitoring (seasonal). On non-diving days, you can engage in community initiatives like assisting with English lessons for local children or supporting livelihood projects.
Survey Details
Each survey dive lasts about an hour, with observations recorded for species diversity, population density, and environmental conditions. Data is meticulously entered into a shared database for analysis, contributing directly to conservation efforts in the region.
Shorter Programs for Busy Volunteers
If you’re short on time, a two-week option during the Seagrass Monitoring season allows non-divers to complete the Seagrass Ecology course and assist with data collection. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute meaningfully without requiring a diving qualification.
Evenings and Leisure
After a rewarding day, evenings are yours to relax and unwind. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet read in a beachfront cabana, playing pool or darts, or soaking up the lively atmosphere at a beach bar, you’ll find plenty of ways to recharge.
Seasonal Opportunities
Certain activities and surveys are seasonal, so you may wish to plan your participation based on specific interests. No matter the time of year, the Ocean Stewardship Program offers a rich and rewarding experience for anyone looking to make a lasting impact on marine conservation while embracing the adventure of a lifetime.
Join us in Cambodia and become a steward of the ocean, creating a legacy of preservation and sustainability!
|
Time of year
|
Surveys/Activities |
| Reef Biodiversity Data Collection | March – May |
| Seagrass Surveys | October – November |
| Artificial Coral Reef & Coral Nursery | All year round |
| Coral Bleaching Monitoring | All year round |
| Coral Spawning Surveys | Daytime Spawning Species: October – November; Nighttime Spawning Species: February – April |
| Beach Cleans | All year round |
| Community Projects & Education Outreach | All year round |
| International Medical Relief Mission (1-week dedicated mission) | Varies every year – please contact directly if this is of interest (please note no other activities are available during this week) |
Logistics
During the expedition you will be living in our dedicated sustainability centre, located in a small village on the north side of Koh Rong Island. It is a traditional Cambodian-style building nestled within the local community. Each secure room is shared between a maximum of two volunteers, and is furnished with a fan, shelves, pillows, mattresses, and mosquito nets. You will need to provide your own bed linen and towels. Electricity is available in the village 24 hours a day.
Training will be delivered at an air-conditioned building in a nearby facility which has 24-hour electricity, fast free WiFi, and hot water shower facilities, as well as a gym available for use during your time off.
You will be served three meals per day, cooked by trained Khmer chefs with a balanced and diverse array of choices (vegetarian, vegan and dietary requirements can easily be accommodated). Unlimited drinking water will be provided during your stay.. We have a fully trained doctor on hand 24/7, in case of any illness. You may wish to purchase additional snacks, drinks, and personal items during your stay, for which a weekly budget of $60 USD is recommended. There are several restaurants in the local village and a newly built road allowing access to explore the rest of the island of Koh Rong in your free time. Please note there are no ATMs on the island, thus you should budget accordingly.
Upon arrival in Cambodia, you will need to make your own accommodation and internal travel arrangements prior to the expedition start. On the first day of your expedition, you will be met by project representatives in Sihanoukville town (approximately 2 and a half – 3 hours by bus from Phnom Penh) and guided to the field site by speedboat. Recommendations for internal travel arrangements and suggested accommodation for your pre-arrival time in Cambodia can be provided upon request.
Requirements
- Minimum age – 18 years
- Minimum 4-week commitment.
- Interest in marine conservation and sustainable development
- Healthy level of general fitness and stamina
- Ability to swim 200 m unaided
- PADI Advanced Open Water certified (we can teach you this course on-site! But you must be PADI Open Water certified as a minimum)
- Travel & medical insurance (to include unlimited diving up to 30 m depth)
- Necessary vaccinations as advised by your local travel nurse or GP
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months until expiry from date of entry in Cambodia)
- N.B. Visas for Cambodia are very easy to get, and are obtained at the airport on arrival
- N.B. You will need to provide your own scuba mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit (3-5 mm recommended) and booties. All other dive equipment will be provided for you on-site.
Costs
- First 4 weeks = US$2550
- Additional 1-week blocks (after the initial 4 weeks) = US$250 per week
- PADI Advanced Open Water course (as required) = US$350 (includes all manuals, learning materials and activities – no hidden costs!)
* Places are confirmed with a $500 deposit.
What’s Included:
Your Project Fee includes;
- All program activities, including scuba diving and field trips
- PADI scuba diving course fees and learning manuals (if applicable)
- Accommodation & food (3 hot meals per day)
- In-country support from experienced program staff
- WiFi
- Access to a gym
- Hot water showers
- Return speedboat from the mainland to island-site
What’s Not Included:
Flights, visas, vaccinations, insurance, local land transfers, scuba mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, water clothes, and booties are not included.
Book a Call
Schedule a free call with us to discuss your exact interests and requirements to help us match you with the perfect project for you.