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CONGRATULATIONS!
Congratulations! We are pleased to accept your application to join the research team at our Bira Project in Southern Sulawesi! Thank you for supporting us with your time and effort. Project's like this are possible because of the hard work and dedication of people like you, so thank you for making all of this possible.
In this welcome package you will find useful tips for planning your trip and for your stay with us at our research station. We are here to help you in any way so if you have any further questions please don't hesitate to ask!
Lauren Sparks Founding Director Indo Ocean Project
MEET THE TEAM RAJA AMPAT GROUND TEAM
GREGOIRE BOUILLON
DIVE INSTRUCTOR & PROJECT MANAGER
Greg Bouillon, a Fisheries and Marine Biology Engineer from Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, joined Indo Ocean Project as a Divemaster and Research Intern in 2021 at Nusa Penida, specializing in species ecology and coral monitoring techniques like BRUV and CoralWatch. With over 300 dives and PADI Instructor certification, Greg has since worked as a freelance dive instructor in Thailand and as a project manager for COREPEM, focusing on ecosystem modeling and data analysis His expertise in marine ecosystems and hands-on conservation make him a valuable asset to the team
SUDARYANTO (SUDAR)
PROJECT MARINE BIOLOGIST & CO-ORDINATOR
Sudar, originally from Makassar, South Sulawesi's capital, discovered his passion for marine conservation while earning his Marine Science degree As chairman of his university’s Triangle Diving Club, he led initiatives to promote marine awareness His studies culminated in a thesis on coral reef diversity, using remote sensing and GIS technology to better understand coral ecosystems Certified as a divemaster and scientific diver in Penida, Sudar now leads coral reef health assessments. With experience as a Marine Conservation Scientist in Lombok, he currently works as a Marine Biology and Project Coordinator, focusing on conservation and community engagement.
KERT-KASPAR KAREMA
DIVE INSTRUCTOR & CO-ORDINATOR
Kert-Kaspar, originally from Estonia, holds a degree in Biology and Environmental Protection from the University of Tartu He joined Indo an Project in 2023 at the Penida Project as a Divemaster and earch Diver intern through the ERASMUS grant, where he quickly od out for his enthusiasm and dedication. Now the Program rdinator at the Bira Project, Kert-Kaspar brings a love for the doors, a strong science background, and a passion for conservation. speaks English, Estonian, French, and Russian, and is always up for a e, a swim, or a good conversation about nature
YULY VERNILIANTY
RESEARCH ASSISTANT & DIVE GUIDE
, our Research Assistant at the Bira Project, is originally from the ghboring island of Selayar. She holds a BSc in Marine Science from a versity in South Sulawesi and is currently completing her Divemaster ification alongside her role. Known for her quick support and warm e, Yuly plays a key role in managing our community outreach and ine debris programs, helping bridge science and local engagement he region
MEET THE TEAM HEAD OFFICE
LAUREN SPARKS FOUNDING DIRECTOR
Lauren founded Indo Ocean Project in 2017 to bring together her passion for marine research and dive training. Originally from Canada, she’s spent over 10 years living in Indonesia and working across the Caribbean, Australia, South Pacific, and Southeast Asia. A dive pro since 2007, Lauren’s background is in biology and theatre, and she’s published several papers in marine science and conservation policy. When she’s not managing the project, you’ll likely find her freediving, behind a camera, or planning the next adventure underwater
PASCAL SEBASTIAN
SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR & CO FOUNDER
Pascal comes from Jakarta and earned his master’s degree at James Cook University in Australia, specializing in coral and bryozoan taxonomy. Before joining Indo Ocean Project, he published two scientific papers and discovered six new species of bryozoans A certified PADI and SSI instructor, he has nearly a decade of dive experience across Indonesia Pascal is passionate about marine ecology and the social dynamics of coastal communities, and works to connect international and Indonesian scientists for more grounded, collaborative research
MICHAELA DUDASOVA
FINANCIAL & ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR
Originally from Slovakia, Michaela spent 14 years in the corporate world in Ireland before shifting to a life of diving and conservation She joined Indo Ocean Project as one of our first divemaster interns and has since become a PADI and SSI instructor, managed the Penida Project, and now serves as our Chief Financial and Administration Officer After seven years on the team, she still doesn’t sit still, regularly jumping between locations as lead support staff to help keep operations running smoothly.
SELENE GAIANI
PROGRAM & EXPEDITION MANAGER
ginally from Italy, Selene’s connection to the water began as a mpetitive synchronized swimmer and evolved into a career in arine biology She joined Indo Ocean Project in 2021 as a divemaster d research intern, completing her master’s thesis on reef structure d fish abundance in Nusa Penida. After a year teaching diving in Koh o, she returned to manage both our Raja Ampat and Penida projects. w based at head office as Program and Expedition Manager, Selene ersees operations across all sites and leads the development of IOP’s owing expedition program
MEET THE TEAM SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
CUT AJA GITA
SR
MARINE BIOLOGIST & DATA ANALYST
Gita is a coral restoration specialist and marine scientist with a Master’s degree in Marine Science from IPB University. She is the winner of the Daughters of the Deep scholarship and completed her Divemaster and Research Diver internship with Indo Ocean Project in Bira in March 2024. With multiple peer-reviewed publications and extensive field experience, Gita brings scientific depth to the team As Senior Marine Biologist and Research Associate, she supports Indo Ocean Project’s Science Head Office with ecology workshop development, research fellow mentorship, and scientific writing
QINTHAN AULIA
SR
MARINE BIOLGIST & COMMUNITY MANAGER
Qinthan, a marine biologist and coral expert from Java, graduated in 2021 from Diponegoro University, where she researched whale shark emergence in Saleh Bay She received a coral restoration scholarship in the Gili Islands and led conservation efforts at the UNDIP Seagrass Conservation Center Starting with Indo Ocean Project as a research assistant in May 2022, over the last few years she has advanced to Senior Marine Biologist and Community Manager, bringing her expertise in coral restoration and community engagement.
DATA ANALYST & RESEARCH DIVER
Ilham, originally from Bekasi, West Java, is an oceanography graduate passionate about marine conservation With a background in coastal inundation research from Bandung Institute of Technology, he joined Indo Ocean Foundation as a data analyst and research assistant. He brings a strong interest in remote sensing to the team and, as an Advanced Open Water diver, is working toward his Divemaster certification to spend even more time in the field.
ALIVIANNISHA WINDA ZACHRANY (ICHA) ADMINISTRATION & COMMUNICATION ASSISTANT
Icha just graduated in October 2024 and dove right into her new role as Communications and Administrative Assistant at Indo Ocean Foundation. With a knack for ocean data and a flair for PR, she’s not only skilled in tools like MATLAB and ArcGIS but also loves getting the word out on marine conservation From her research internship on water mass characteristics to leading campus marine events, Icha brings a dynamic mix of science smarts and communication savvy to the team
AHMAD ILHAM RABBANI ERAWAN
JOIN OUR FACEBOOK COMMUNITIES
Past, present, and future interns as well as staff meet and discuss the project and current related events
Feel free to post any questions you may have to your peers and follow along with the project updates!
ELEARNING ACCESS & PRE-ARRIVAL COURSES
Two months before your arrival, you’ll receive login details for two platforms These platforms are an integral part of both your pre-arrival preparation and your time on program You’ll use them to complete required coursework, track your progress, stay informed, and access important materials before and throughout your internship
1) ELEARNING
1 Pre-Arrival Identification Course
Learn the key fish species you’ll survey using the provided manuals, quizzes, and exams On-site, you’ll complete a workshop and final test before your data is included in research. This ensures data quality and consistent surveyor knowledge.
On Arrival
2 Intern Onboarding Course
An overview of our research methods, monitoring techniques, and conservation goals. Understand what you’ll be doing, why it matters, and how it supports our mission.
You will gain access to 2 additional eCourses designed to pair with your inprogram workshops. This includes both Diver Development and Marine Ecology. It is also your main portal for submitting your assignments for review.
INTERN PORTAL INDO OCEAN WEB APP
Your Intern Portal is your program in your pocket Use it to complete pre-arrival forms, submit arrival details, and request rental gear Once on-site, it tracks your daily schedule, assignment deadlines, and training progress, all in one place!
2) IOP APP
Complete Your Profile
Check your photo and upload a new one. This photo will be used for your diving and ecology certifications, so choose wisely! Input your flight and arrival details Input your emergency contact info Update your dive history and rental equipment requests
On Arrival
Dashboard > Paperwork
Download, review, sign, and upload the following required documents: Indo Ocean Project Intern Contract Code of Ethics and Disciplinary Procedures
Diver Check-In Forms
Note: No need to complete the DM paperwork until after your arrival
Once you arrive, your Intern Portal becomes your daily guide Use it to check your schedule, track your training record and course progress, view assignment due dates, and stay updated on the team’s scientific goals.
VISA & IMMIGRATION
Updated: May 2025 (subject to change without notice)
Indonesian immigration can feel overwhelming, but we ’ re here to help Indo Ocean Project partners with agents and legal experts to ensure everything runs smoothly About 6 weeks before your arrival, we’ll help you start the visa process
You are responsible for all visa costs We recommend using our trusted agent, eVISA Bali for reliable processing and fewer headaches �� info@evisabali com | �� www evisabali com
Mention “Indo Ocean Project” when contacting them. There are 3 visa options, depending on your travel plans:
Option 1 – eVOA (Electronic Visa on Arrival)
�� IDR 650,000 + optional 30-day extension (IDR 650,000)
�� Stay up to 60 days total
✅ Easy to arrange through eVISA Bali
�� Must leave Indonesia after 60 days
Recommended for 6–8 week programs with no post-program travel
Option 2 – C9 Short Course Visa
�� IDR 3,250,000 + optional 60-day extensions (IDR 2,750,000 each)
�� Stay up to 180 days (must extend every 60 days)
✅ Extension support through eVISA Bali
�� Requires in-person immigration visits for each extension
Good for longer stays or if you plan to travel after the program
Option 3 – C22B Company Internship Visa
�� IDR 6,750,000 (all-inclusive)
�� Valid for 180 days, no extension needed
⏱ Fast processing: 7 working days (2 with express service)
�� No immigration visits required
Best option for those who want a one-time, hassle-free visa solution.
*VERY IMPORTANT*
Indonesia has strict laws against foreigners working without the correct visa. When applying or entering the country, do not mention “work”.
You’re here for scuba and scientific diver training.
While we’ll help guide you, visas are a legal agreement between you and the state and remain your responsibility.
Ultimately, a visa is a legal agreement between you and the Indonesian government. Indo Ocean Project only provides sponsorship letters through our recommended visa partner. If you choose this option, your visa is sponsored by us and you must follow Indonesian law and our Code of Ethics. Any breach may result in the cancellation of your sponsorship and visa. If you choose not to use our VISA partner, you are fully responsible for managing your visa independently.
We highly recommend using our trusted partner, eVISA Bali, to avoid complications and ensure a smooth visa process.
PAYMENT STRUCTURE
To help manage your commitment and allow us to prepare for your arrival, the program fee is divided into three payments This structure ensures transparency and helps us plan logistics, reserve your place, and provide access to essential pre-arrival materials
By submitting your deposit, you are agreeing to the Terms and Conditions outlined in the document sent to you along with your Welcome Guide and first invoice Please read this carefully before making your deposit
Here’s how the payment breakdown works:
1. 20% Deposit
Due upon acceptance to secure your spot in the program
2. 40% Second Payment
Due three months before your start date. This confirms your attendance and allows us to prepare your access to the IOP Web App and pre-arrival learning materials.
3. 40% Final Payment
Due on arrival at the project.
All payments are processed through our secure payment gateway, Flywire, which offers various payment options, low transfer fees, and international security. Please follow the unique payment link provided to you via email.
If you encounter any issues with Flywire, contact michaela@indooceanproject org for assistance
ARRIVAL PROCEDURES
MAKASSAR - SULAWESI SULTAN HASANUDDIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (UPG)
Two months before your start date, you’ll gain access to the IOP Web App Once your flights are booked, please submit your Arrival Details through your Profile in the app so we can arrange your airport pickup and transfer. We recommend flying internationally into Jakarta or Bali, then booking a separate domestic flight to Makassar (UPG), which has frequent connections but limited international service.
You must land in Makassar before 14:00 to reach Bira the same day. We recommend arriving at least one day before your program starts to avoid delays.
Our driver, Rahim, will meet you at the arrival gate after baggage claim wearing a blue IOP shirt and holding a sign with your name He drives a private, air-conditioned car and will stay in contact with our team during your transfer Travel time to Bira is 4 to 6 hours, depending on traffic, and you may share the ride with another intern or staff member Bathroom and food stops can be arranged along the way
The drive follows scenic coastal roads through traditional villages. Once you arrive at Blue Planet Dive Resort, a team member will be there to welcome you.
For any questions, contact us at bira@indooceanproject.org.
EXTRA COSTS
PLEASE NOTE THAT INDO OCEAN PROJECT IS NOT RESPONISBLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGES DUE TO CAUSES OUTSIDE OF OUR CONTROL WE RECOMMEND INVESTING IN TRAVEL AND TRIP INSURANCE TO COVER ANY UNFORESEEN COSTS
Flights
International and domestic flights. Typically a domestic flight from Jakarta or Bali to Makassar is around 2,000,000 - 3,000,000 IDR return
VISA
B211A VISA costs vary depending on how long you will stay in the country Please see the Indonesia Visa Procedures page for details
Equipment
Equipment can be rented from the dive centre for 1,500,000 IDR/month paid directly to them This covers your BCD, regulator, wetsuit, and fins You will need to purchase some of your own equipment (see equipment page)
Insurance
Dive, health, and travel insurance are all required to make sure you are covered. These plans vary depending on your length of travel and terms and requirements. Plans can start for as little as $65/year.
Divemaster Training Materials and Processing Fees
The price varies depending on which ageny you choose PADI costs a total of around 7,350,000 IDR (depending on exchange rate) and SSI costs 3,950,000 IDR This is paid on your arrival either to the agency or through IOP
Spending money
You will want to buy a few things from the local shops (soda, snacks, souvenirs) Things are cheap in Indonesia, and there are several stores and local market to purchase whatever you need - however more Western food items need to come from Makassar and the Blue Planet / IOP team have ways to make this happen.
THE ULTIMATE
TRAVEL CHECKLIST
Before getting on the plan here are some useful things to pack!
THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL CHECKLIST
Divemaster
Diver Internship
Mandatory Equipment
The following equipment items are mandatory as part of your Divemaster and you should try arrive with them (or pre-order them for your arrival date from us):
Dive Computers
With all dive gear there’s an enormous variety to choose from. Entry level computers are absolutely fine, such as Cressi Leonardo, Suunto Zoop, and Mares Puck Pro. However for many people the preference is generally for wrist style watch computers such as Mares Smart, Suunto D4i Novo, and Aqualung i200
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) / Reel / Noisemaker
Due to the conditions in Indonesia we encourage everyone to have a self-sealing 1 8m/6ft DSMB with oral inflation (pictured above) For the reel we recommend a basic finger reel with minimum 30m line Noisemakers can be in the form of a pointer stick, double ended clip or something you can tap against your tank to get the attention of those around you These items are all available for purchase on arrival
Mask and Snorkel
The most important part of a mask is that it fits your face properly! You should be able to hold the mask to your face without the strap over your head by just inhaling through your nose.
Other equipment items: BCD, Wetsuit, Fins and Regulator can be rented from Blue Planet for 1,500,000 IDR Per Month.
Note: If you bring your own DIN regulators you will also need to bring a yoke adaptor.
Other Useful Items
Laptops
As we are doing a lot of theory and research work during your internship we strongly advise that you bring your own laptop with you We have a lot of resources that we can share with you during your stay that are just too big to upload online. If you are a researcher intern only it is MANDATORY for you to bring a laptop.
Diving Bits and Bobs
GoPros / Underwater Camera
Whilst we are able to provide cameras necessary for BRUV and Benthic Surveys, we are unable to lend them out for personal useif you would like to get involved in our photo ID projects or document your experience we recommend bringing a GoPro or if you are looking to try UW photography - the Olympus TG6 is the recommended starting compact camera.
We highly recommend bringing a dive torch and a reef hook. Torches are limited at Scuba Republic, and having your own is important as you progress as a dive pro. Reef hooks are useful in strong currents and can be purchased from IOP on arrival
These small tools make a big difference in your training and overall dive experience.
Diver Safety
It is mandatory that you have active dive specific insurance to take part in your program. You will be asked to present these documents on your arrival.
We STRONGLY recommend DAN (Diver's Alert Network) for the duration of your stay which provides an extra level of cover for your diving activities Visit the DAN Insurance website for further details - for DAN you are looking at the Sport packages If you choose any other dive insurance we will need to check with our local healthcare providers that they can coordinate your evacuation directly with the insurer.
We also implement the following rules during your program to minimise the risk even further:
Refresher Workshop - All interns (regardless of certification level) take part in a confined refresher session on their first day to acclimatise you to the new equipment and refresh your memory of the basic dive skills you may have forgotten
Check Out Dive - All interns undergo a check out dive on their second day to review your diving skills in the open water and help you adjust your weighting before any dive courses begin
Dive Briefings & Buddy Checks – Plan your Dive and Dive Your Plan Full dive briefings and buddy checks will be completed before every dive
No Decompression Diving Only – We do not push the limits, we will check you know how to use your dive computer and know how to avoid exceeding these limits that keep you safe
No Touching – Don’t touch, don’t take, don’t break – you are becoming role model professionals. Take only pictures, leave only bubbles.
No Sleep / Too Much Drinking the Night Before = No Diving for You! Any of the IOP or Blue Planet team reserve the right to remove you from activities if they do not think you are physically fit to dive.
All project staff are trained emergency first responders and certified dive professionals with up to date first aid training. All necessary emergency equipment is located on the dive boat or at project headquarters including first aid kits, and oxygen.
DIVERS ALERT NETWORK INSURANCE
THE WORLDS LEADING DIVE INSURANCE PROVIDER
Indo Ocean Project is a proud partner of DAN World All of our staff are DAN members and we have an excellent corridor of communication. DAN has consulted on all of our remote Accident Management Plans
Although it is not the only global dive insurance provider it is one of the most popular Plans are affordable (starting from $65/year) and available worldwide
SCAN ME TO REGISTER WITH INDO OCEAN PROJECT’S DAN ACCOUNT
SOME USEFUL LINKS:
Review the 2022/2023 DAN insurance packages here. Considering the medical evacuation route for serious injuries is to Bali, Manado or Jakarta, We recommend the Master Worldwide plan ($100 USD/year).
Know before you go: how to plan your dive trip. Plus, how to return to diving safely, DAN's Diving Accident Action Plan, and more...
This guide is a resource for travelers, divers, paramedics, first aid providers, physicians, and others to help prevent, recognize and manage travelrelated illnesses and injuries.
Research Activities
Workshops
Species Identification I & II
Manta Conservation
Shark Conservation
Turtle Conservation
Mola Conservation
Mangrove Conservation
Coral Ecology
Coral Identification
Coral Restoration
Nudibranch & Macro Life
Citizen Science
BRUV & BRUV Viewing
Species Sizing
Field Work
Roving Survey Dives & Species
Identification
Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUVs) - Deployments & Viewings
Benthic Survey Dives
Dive Against Debris & Community / Beach Cleanups
CoralWatch & Coral Health Surveys
Coral Restoration
Water Quality Analysis
Citizen Science Identification ProjectsManta ID, Turtle ID, Elasmobranch ID, and Macro ID
If you are using this program for university credit please contact lauren@indooceanproject org to assist with any pre-arrival administration
Divemaster & Development
Not applicable if you are registered for Package #5 Researcher
Divemaster
Briefings & Assisting Workshop
Leading Dives & Tides Workshop
Practical
SMB Training & Practice
PPB & Fin Kicks Dive
Search & Recovery / Lift Bag Dive
Skills Development Pool / Confined
Course Assists with Students
Mapping Dives
Deep Scenario
Rescue Scenario
Night Dives
Watermanship Assessment (Stamina Test)
Equipment Exchange (Stress Test)
Leading Dives
Knots / Search & Recovery Workshop
PPB / Fin Kicks & Lift Bag Workshop
Mapping Workshop
Gas Planning & Communication
Workshop
Rescue & O2 Workshop
Science of Diving / Dive Tables
Workshop
What Next Workshop
Additional courses available upon request You can book these directly through our partnering dive shop on your arrival
Certifications
During your internship you will receive the following certifications:
Species Identification Specialty
Manta Conservation Specialty
Shark Conservation Specialty
Turtle Conservation Specialty
Mola Conservation Specialty
Mangrove Conservation Specialty
Nudibranch & Macro Specialty
Ocean Gardener Coral Diver Specialty
Depending on your program you may also receive:
SSI / PADI Divemaster
SSI React Right Course
SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Course
SSI Advanced Adventurer Course
SSI Open Water Course
Certifications will be processed when performance requirements are met at the end of your program You will be responsible for managing your time to make sure all knowledge development is completed before you leave and will be scheduled independent study time to do so Each course has knowledge development plus practical skill evaluations, as well as a huge resource list that will boost your reference and knowledge library.
Additional Courses (Optional Extras)
If you want to do even more diving on your days off our partnering dive centre offer additional specialty courses such as:
SSI Deep Diving Specialty
SSI Enriched Air Nitrox Specialty
SSI Night Diving Specialty
SSI Navigation Specialty
SSI Perfect Buoyancy Specialty
The cost of these courses will be sent to you when you arrive and you can decide to complete them over your days off or at the end of your internship.
These courses are arranged directly through our partnering dive centre and Indo Ocean Project does not take an responsibility for the planning of cost.
For dive professionals who are wanting to work in the industry we strongly advise you get your deep and nitrox specialties as well (plus they are a LOT of fun), however these are completely optional.
Divemaster
Diver
BLUE PLAN
Tanjung Bira - South T H E D I V E S H O P
Blue Planet Dive Resort is a n that opened in June 2019 off dives and dive training aroun beachside on the western coa peninsula. It is surrounded by only 5 minute bike ride from village.
The facilities consist of a dive centre and Indo Ocean Project research centre and intern dorms, resort private accommodation, and restaurant/yoga chalet
They offer a variety of adventure sports including paddles boarding, tubbing, and local tours
Visit Blue Planet’s Website
Follow their journey... facebook.com/BluePlanetDiveResort instagram com/blueplanetdiveresort /
ACCOMMODATION
On site accommodation @ Blue Planet Dive Resort
Home Sweet Home!
The Intern house and project headquarters are located on site at Blue Planet Dive Resort in Tanjung Bira. 4 bed shared dorms with shared toilets and showers and living/kitchen area. Each bed comes with clean sheets, European power outlet, private reading light and fan.
WiFi is not accessible within Blue Planet at this time and the best solution is to get a personal local SIM card on arrival and top up your data The cost is around 100,000/month for data and calling There is access to the project television in the evenings capable for reading USB and HDMI.
Blue Planet is our host, but we are also their guests You will be responsible for cleaning up after yourself and taking part in monthly cleaning events of communal areas
Communal beachside living at it’s very best!
Food
Indonesian food is based around rice and noodles with many vegetarian options. Fish, chicken, eggs, tempe, and tofu are the main sources of protein with coconut based curries and stir-fried vegetables.
Favourite local restaurants - Cosmos, Harbour Warungs
There are also several western restaurants that serves burgers, fries, pizza and tacos daily when you need a little bit of comfort food
Favourite western restaurantsAkasha, Tevana (Curry Friday), Seascapes (Taco Tuesday)
Shared Kitchen
There is a basic kitchen shared among the project interns equipped with a stove top, fridge, and cooking supplies. It is the responsibility of the interns to keep this space clear and stocked with food.
Meals can be prepared here with local markets open every 2 days with fresh fruit and vegetables and protein for sale There is also a convenience store open every day with pasta, rice, and other spices and herbs
There are many local warungs (restaurants) within a 5 minute drive from the project headquarters
** Average local meal costs around $3.50 USD- $10 USD for western-style meal.
** Drinking water is provided at the project headquarters
** Bintang (beer) and soft drinks are available for purchase
** Local warungs and shops are located 15 minute walk from project headquarters
Transportation
On your first day, a car will bring you to the project headquarters in Bira Bira is a peninsula and accessible directly by car.
Downloads apps like GoJek and Grab and get the best deal on transportation in Indonesian cities. These apps are not available in Bira
The primary mode of transportation in Bira is motorbike Motorbikes are available for hire for around 1,300,000 IDR/month or 75,000 IDR/day. Petrol costs around 20,000 IDR to fill up your bike and can last for several days Although motorbike hire is optional, it is recommended Often interns will split the cost and share a bike.
Nothing is more than a 30 minute walk away in Bira
Our Local Partners
Collaboration is at the heart of our mission. At each project location, we work closely with local organizations to support community-driven conservation, education, and sustainability efforts. In Nusa Penida, we’re proud to partner with the following initiatives:
Kawasan Wisata Mangrove Luppung
This youth-led mangrove sanctuary is one of the largest in the region. We work together to collect propagules for our nursery and take part in planting events that restore and protect Bira’s vital mangrove ecosystems.
Taman Kanak-kanak Desa Tanjung Bira
A local elementary school with around 60 students. Every Friday morning, our team visits to lead fun, engaging sessions focused on English, cultural exchange, and ocean-themed games and activities
Hasanuddin University, Makassar
A key academic partner for research collaboration and student development. We host several of their marine science students through scholarships, welcoming them into our Divemaster and Research Internship and Fellowship programs.
Dego Dego
A scenic hotel and restaurant that serves as a community hub. We co-host public lectures, educational events, and tourism engagement sessions here to connect our science with the broader public.
Bulukumba Women’s and People with Disabilities Association
We collaborate with this local group to promote inclusive community engagement and integrate traditional ecological knowledge into local marine policy development efforts.
ExploreBira
Paddleboarding Viewpoints
KambingIsland
Beers with Friends
Sunsets!!
Phinisi Boat Building
Divemaster & Research
Diver Internship
LEARN SOME BAHASA INDONESIAN!
Welcome
Hello (general greeting)
How are you?
Reply to 'How are you?'
Selamat datang
Hi / Halo
Apa kabar?
Baik (fine)
Baik baik saja (all fine)
Sehat (Healthy)
Bagus (good)
Anda? (And you?)
What's your name?
Siapa nama anda?
Anda namanya siapa?
My name is....
Nama saya....
Saya bernama....
Where are you from?
Anda berasal dari mana?
Saya dari....
Selamat Pagi
Selamat Siang
Selamat Sore
Selamat Malam
LEARN SOME MORE!
Selamat tinggal (when leaving)
Selamat jalan (when staying)
Sampai jumpa lagi
Selamat makan
Saya mengerti
Saya tidak mengerti
Do you speak english?
Anda bisa bicara bahasa inggris?
Permisi
Terima kasih (Thank you)
Terima kasih banyak (thank you very much)
Makasih (thanks)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How long does it take to get from the airport to the project headquarters?
Makassar is the second largest city in Indonesia and is located 200 km away from the peninsula of Bira It takes around 4-5 hours (depending on arrival time and traffic) to get to the project headquarters at Blue Planet Dive Resort.
Q: How big is Bira?
Bira is a small peninsula approx 1km wide and 2km long with a local population of around 2,000.
Q: Is there a hospital/clinic/doctor on Bira?
There is a small clinic and pharmacy open from 6pm - 9pm on weekdays. Most of your basic medication can be purchased at the convenience store The closest hospital is around 1 hour dive away in the town of Bulukumba and a large western hospital in Makassar.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q What activities can I do on my days off?
Bira has many activities and places to explore on you down time. The dive shop has paddle boards and kayaks that can be used just off the beach
Bira is famous for having incredible white powder sand beaches and the project is located right in the middle of one of the largest ones
Explore the small chain of islands off of Bira on day trips There are also many jungle treks, look out points, fresh water caves, cliff jumping and much more.
Renting a motorbike and exploring the surrounding countryside is a must.
Q: Should I be concerned about Malaria in Bira?
Although there is malaria throughout Indonesia, the risk to travellers staying in tourist destinations and the surrounding areas is quite small and prevention by malaria tablets is usually not prescribed Check with your local health authority for the latest recommendations.
Some basic prevention recommendation include using repellents and covering your body around sunrise and sunset
Q: What is the weather like in Indonesia?
Rainy season is from November - March, but don't let this hold you back! It does not rain everyday, all day In fact it's mostly light rain in the afternoons every few days It is also the time of the year when the jungle comes alive with colour And to share a little secret, there is no better feeling than a natural shower after a long hot day on the water!
The average temperature is between 27 C and 32 C and the average humidity is 80% all year round.
Q: Are there ATM machines on the island?
Yes, there are several ATM machines in the village centre that accept all major credit cards They are refilled every few days and sometimes run out of money. It's best to keep a small stash of cash in your locker or project safe.
Q: Is there internet access at the project?
Wifi is available around Blue Planet Dive Resort, there is also good connection via mobile devices and hotspotting. Project staff will assist you to purchase your own local SIM card (100,000 IDR) and then it's an average of 100,000 IDR/month to top up your credit or "pulsa"
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is the local currency?
The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Keep in mind that there are a lot of zeros in the currency and it can be confusing. 1,000,000 (yes, a million!) is roughly equal to USD$70, EURO € 60, GPB £ 45, AUS$ 100
Q: How is the electricity?
This is a remote area and electricity is an expensive resource However power is accessable throughout the day at most places There are occasion rolling black outs but that is what keeps things interesting!
Bring your headlamp or torch!
Q: What kind of food is available on the island?
A shared kitchen for the interns is provided including a stove top and fridge. There is a local market opened every 2 days that sells fresh fruit and vegetables, chicken, fish, and more There is also a convenience store to get snacks and other cooking supplies.
The restaurants serve primarily Indonesian food including rice, noodle, and protein based delicious dishes
You can not drink the water from the tap. Water jugs and refill stations are available throughout the area and drinking water dispensers are available at the project Where do I get drinking water?
Q: Can I buy toiletries and feminine products close to the project?
Yes, in the main village (around 1km away form the Project headquarters) there are several shops to purchase toiletries
Ladies, tampons are not a common item here in Indonesia as most women use maxi-pads. We recommend for you to bring a few boxes with you or invest in the the moon/diva cup to be super eco friendly!
Q: What transportation is included in my internship?
Your transfer from Makassar to base camp is included in your package and is organised by Indo Ocean Project for you when you confirm your travel details.
Please be aware your return journey when you leave is not included Additional journeys for recreational or medical reasons are not included You are responsible for organising any transportation or trips other than your arrival. Cost 850,000 IDR one way to Makassar
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Is hot water / AC available at the project?
At Blue Planet Dive Resort we use cold water showers in order to conserve electricity and power. Hot water is available for making drinks via the water dispenser. Air conditioning is not needed due to the location of the resort on top of the cliff - you will feel the breeze each day In the dorms a personal fan is provided for each bed.
Q: What are the diving seasons in Bira?
“Rainy season ” in Bira is technically from November - March, however not much rain is experienced in November and December in Bira. Rainy season also does not mean rain all day, it is usually sharp refreshing bursts that are welcomed by all followed by clear skies.
The wind direction shifts in January slightly changing our dive site availability. The best diving around Kambing island is accessible all year as is our House Reef in front of Blue Planet
From January - April our science targets are focused on Bira East when the water is warmer (28-30 degrees) and from MayDecember our science targets shift to Bira West when the water is cooler (25-28 degrees)
Q: What dive insurance do I need?
Regular travel insurance is not sufficient for the amount of diving you will be doing, or the remote nature of the Bira Project. Therefore it is mandatory that all interns purchase additional dive-specific insurance to protect yourself in case of emergency. Please see the Dive Safety page for details.
If you choose any insurer other than DAN please email the project team first to check it provides the cover needed - as we need to check the local healthcare providers are able to co-ordinate directly with the insurer.
