Intro and Application Guide

TRAINING & INTERNSHIP

ABOUT US Conserving the marine environment through research, education, and collaboration

Founded in 2017, Indo Ocean Project is a marine research

Mission

and conservation program in the heart of the coral

Conserving Indonesia’s marine environment through

triangle,

ocean

research and education whilst training the highest quality

professionals through our award-winning divemaster and

dive professionals through our conservation divemaster

research diver internship program.

internship program.

Our field expeditions in Indonesia hosts international and

Vision

local research projects on a variety of marine conservation

At Indo Ocean Project we envision a healthy and

issues and research techniques.

profitable marine ecosystem throughout Indonesia to

training

the

next

generation

of

benefit multiple industries and stakeholders to help We are constantly seeking hardworking and enthusiastic

protect the livelihoods of local coastal communities for

people to take part in our research diver-training program

generations to come.

and join the research team.

Publication You don’t need to be a diver or a scientist to take part!

At Indo Ocean Project we use our data to produce peerreviewed scientific journal publications, which in turn is used to help enforce policy change in our regions of study.

THE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Divemaster and Research Diver Training In partnership with award-winning dive centers in Indonesia’s top diving destinations, we offer an innovative conservation focused divemaster and research diver training program.

Assume the role of research diver at one of our project locations and complete your divemaster and multiple ecology and scientific specialty courses related to our in-house research projects.

Take the next step towards a career in marine conservation or diving with our team of experienced dive professionals and marine educators to guide you along the way.

WHY US?

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

Indonesia is at the forefront for some of the oceans most important conservation issues including elasmobranch conservation, plastic pollution, coral and coastal ecosystem restorations, and overfishing. High demand on endangered species products globally combined with IUU and bycatch fishing has forced populations of key marine species to the brink.

The Divemaster course teaches you to be a leader and take charge of dive activities. Through workshops, watermanship exercises, and hands on practical assessment, you develop the skills to organize and direct a variety of scuba and marine research activities.

Divemaster and research interns with Indo Ocean Project are crucial to successfully conducting our long term ecological monitoring and restoration projects such as BRUV (baited remote underwater video), benthic surveys, underwater visual census surveys, coral restoration, mangrove restoration and more.

It takes a team to get everything done with our limited time and resources. As a member of the research team you must be ready to work together efficiently in a fast-paced environment to help us reach our scientific goals.

Divemaster and research internship

Conservation Workshops: Species identification I & II, surveying & sizing, shark conservation, manta conservation, turtle conservation, coral ecology, taxonomy and restoration, mola conservation, nudibranchs, mangrove conservation, marine debris and ocean plastics, BRUV deployment, BRUV viewing, citizen science, what next (CV & careers).

Divemaster Workshops: Lift bag, knots & search and recovery, fin kicks and peak performance buoyancy, skill demonstrations, assisting divers & briefings, gas planning, rescue & O2, leading dive & tides, mapping, recreational dive planner & science of diving, basic equipment maintenance*, instructor development course intro**, introduction to free diving** Practical Assessments & Scenarios: Deep dive, search and recovery, watermanship skills, equipment exchange, rescue assessment, skill circuits, exams, professionalism. *Bira only. **Penida only.

TYPICAL DAY The project runs 6 days a week and all interns are entitled to 1 day off per week / 4 days off per month.

Your first few weeks are dedicated to dive, methodology, and fish ID training and workshops. Each practical task is paired with a workshop where you will receive in depth training with an instructor before applying this knowledge in the field.

The days are flexible according to weather and tides, scheduling, and course work. The typical day begins at 7:30am and finishes around 4:30pm with an average of 6-8 hours of work per day.

With a goal of 6-8 dives per week, you will be in the water most days – whether on the boat, shore diving, confined training, or all! You will assist staff members and each other throughout the day with tasks changing daily on demand.

You will alternate between staff so you can see different diving and teaching styles and begin to develop your own.

Your time will be split between the following tasks: GOING DIVING! – A lot of the divemaster is just going on dives, this is the longest training course you will ever do in diving and the one that contains the most in-water time. We do a mixture of scientific and fun diving to keep it fresh!

Divemaster and Dive Guides – Learning how to assist and guide certified divers (under supervision).

Instructors – Assisting courses from Discover Scuba Diving to Rescue Diver in the pool, classroom, and open water.

Research Team – Take an active role in the research team as a research diver and field scientist contributing to many data sets including; collecting abundance data on dives, placing and retrieving the BRUV’s, Dive Against Debris surveys, CoralWatch surveys, and helping with our coral restoration efforts.

Data Entry / Workshops – Help the dive team in the office with scientific equipment maintenance / repair / preparation, data entry and analysis, project development, and enhancing your knowledge in the various workshops.

Independent Study Time – Use this time to complete theoretical or independent projects including the knowledge reviews for your certification courses, study for exams, or work on independent research projects.

Independent Projects – If you would like even more there is the opportunity to take on an Independent Project, such as being responsible for uploading our data to the relevant citizen science databases, or using your creative skills to create our amazing bimonthly video logs. At Indo Ocean Project – there is always more to do!

RESEARCH Wondering what kind of field work you will be involved in?

01

We focus on three categories of activities 1.Ecological monitoring 2.Direct conservation efforts 3.Marine education and awareness

Conservation Management Plan 2023

All of our locations take part in our standardised research projects.

Interns undergo workshops, testing, and training dives before taking on a leadership position in our field research activities.

BRUV (Baited Remote Underwater Video)

Using a GoPro mounted to a baited structure, 1 hour of video survey is collected throughout the marine protected area to assess indicator species abundance and population dynamics

02

Roving Survey Dives

Group of 4 or more certified surveyors conducting a roving survey dive over a 30 minute period at predetermined locations to contribute to our overall ecological monitoring

03

Benthic Survey

Using a modified quadrat, a time lapse photo is taken across a transect line to survey sessile creatures including coral and invertebrates

04

Coral Restoration & Monitoring

Adopting the Ocean Gardener methodology, interns take part in a 3 day Coral Diver course complete with a planting and maintenance of our coral nursery sites. Combined with CoralWatch reef assessment technique to track disease and coral bleaching events

05

Lots more....

Citizen science, water quality assessments, photographic identification of marine megafauna,, education programme in local schools, mangrove restoration and optimal growth assessment, marine debris assessment, and developmental and experimental research. We also host independent research projects for post graduate level who run short term projects with varied field work assisted by interns.

Become a Research Diver and Divemaster at one of our three projects in Indonesia.

Nusa Penida Bali Raja Ampat West Papua Bira Southern Sulawesi Although the foundation of our training program is the same across our different locations each project has something special!

Locations were chosen based on varying degrees of MPA status, from no marine park in Bira to well established and managed marine park in Raja Ampat.

PENIDA PROJECT Bali Established in 2017

From 6,000,000 IDR / week

The project headquarters is located on the island of Nusa

Project highlights

Penida in the Penida Marine Park. Penida is a diver, surfer,

BRUV, the most developed coral nursery and restoration

and yogi paradise only a 30-minute boat ride from

site, mangrove restoration, the science hub of IOP.

southeast Bali and ideally located only 1 hour away from the Denpasar International Airport.

Diving highlights Reef manta rays, seasonal mola (ocean sunfish) &

Located at Indo Ocean’s own Dive Hub, this diving

wobbegongs, bamboo sharks, sea turtles, thriving coral

destination boasts multiple manta ray, mola, and turtle

reefs, occasional pelagics such as hammerhead and

interactions with research focused on manta and turtle

thresher sharks,

conservation and the care and development of our coral nursery.

Diving conditions High currents year round bring a constant flow of nutrient

This is the first project and the home of all our head office

rich waters.

team. You will get to contribute to baseline data running

July - October (dry season) bring in colder thermoclines

since 2017 with more established research projects.

with water temperatures from 13 °C to 28°C. November June (rainy and shoulder seasons) water temperatures are 25 °C to 30 °C

Number of Interns 10 - 12

Number of Staff 4

Life at the Penida Project Due to its proximity to main land Bali, Nusa Penida is often a bustle of tourism and activity. The Project Headquarters are located in Indo Ocean’s own Dive Hub, around 5 minute drive from the main harbor in Toya Pakeh and located on the northern coast of Nusa Penida. This is the tourist center of the island so close to amenities with lively nightlife and post diving activities.

Accommodation The Penida Project boasts the most comfortable living conditions as it is the most developed area. The accommodation is a mixed dorm at Wehus Homestay, around 5 minute walk to the Dive Hub. The room has air conditioning and a shared bathroom with hot water. The facilities also include a mini kitchen, and restaurant in Penida’s central area.

Who should choose the Penida Project This is a great destination for novice travellers who want to keep their creature comforts and not venture too far into Indonesia's wilder destinations. For those who prefer a larger social scene and more varied organised activities on days off.

BIRA PROJECT

The Bira Project welcomed it's first interns in 2019 and after a short closure due to the pandemic was reopened in early 2022. Bira is located on a peninsula in Southern Sulawesi around 200km away

Southern Sulawesi

from Makasar. It is has some of Indonesia’s most stunning beaches and

Established in 2019

untouched reefs. Far away from the hustle and bustle of cities, this sleepy ship building village has only just started to attract the travellers eye.

From 6,000,000 IDR / week

The project is located on the main beach, Bira Pantai Pasir Putih, which translates to White Sand Beach, and it could not have a more appropriate name! This beautiful beach stretching over 2 km along Sulawesi’s southern peninsular and home to the Bira Project headquarters.

Project highlights BRUV, shark identification, coral restoration and nursery development, marine projected area development, community outreach and education.

Diving highlights Whitetip, blacktip, and grey reef sharks, sea turtles, beautiful coral reefs, occasional pelagics like hammerhead, thresher, and whale sharks.

Diving conditions Predominantly wall and drift diving or sandy sloping bottoms. There isn't a defined dry or rainy season in this region and rain fall can happen sporadically.

Average water temperature is 23°C to 30°C

Number of Interns 10 - 12

Number of Staff 4

Life at the Bira Project Communal beach side living in this remote but developing region in Indonesia. The local village of Bira has a population of 4,000 and is famous for its traditional boat building yards found on several near by beaches. Travelling to Bira can be long, with a 4-5 hour drive from the capitol city (and nearest airport) Makasar. Local weekly events are a real highlight here, don't miss out on Taco Tuesday's at Sea Scapes or Banana Leaf Friday's at Teevanah.

Accommodation Everything is centralised at the project headquarters at Blue Planet Dive Resort. The rooms are wooden bungalows with 4 bed mixed fan dorms, shared with your fellow interns. The area also features a communal kitchen and living space, yoga chalet/extra classroom, and shared cold water showers and toilets. The beach is around 50 steps down, which means 50 steps back up, and although there is an equipment elevator to assist in bringing up gear be prepared for a workout!

Who should choose the Bira Project This is the most economic way to complete an IOP program. It is also a dream spot for adventure travellers, with the beach beach access facilities. Grab a paddle board, explore the areas caves and beaches, cliff jumping, or grab the climbing gear.

You will get the most local Indonesian culture immersion at the Bira Project with our education programme at the local kindergarten and small community who always know when the "Blue Shirts" are coming.

RAJA AMPAT PROJECT West Papua Established in 2022

From 7,000,000 IDR / week

The Raja Ampat Project is the newest addition to our

Project highlights

research locations. Known as the world's most biodiverse

BRUV, project development, coral restoration site, shark

marine ecosystem it is our most remote project. It is

and manta identification.

located in the north of the marine park on the infamous Dampier Strait.

Diving highlights Reef sharks, reef and oceanic manta rays, biodiverse coral

Raja Ampat is comprised of over 1500 small islands

reefs, macro critters, occasional dugongs, whale sharks

surrounding 4 main islands of Misool. Salawati, Batanta,

and marine mammals.

and Waigeo. These large islands is where Raja Ampat get’s it’s name from, which means The Four Kings.

Diving conditions Drift, wall, and coral diving. Raja Ampat has it all. Healthy

The project headquarters are located at Scuba Republic's

shark populations, reef and oceanic manta ray cleaning

Raja Ampat Base Camp, a beachside resort on the island

and feeding grounds, and is the birthplace of muck diving

of Waigeo around 20 minute’s drive from the regions

(critter hunting). Currents can be strong and prevailing

capital, Waisai.

south winds from July - September makes parts of the southern park unreachable.. Water temperatures are

*Due to it's remoteness the Raja Ampat Project packages are higher and includes full room and board.

between 27°C and 30°C year round.

Number of Interns 12 - 16

Number of Staff 4-5

Life at the Raja Ampat Project Welcome to the jungle! Raja Ampat is the "Last Paradise" and it lives up to its name in every way. Life at the project is focused around around the ocean and the jungle. The headquarters are located around 20 minute drive to the nearest town where you can find all your basic needs met (toiletries, snacks, etc.). All staff from the project and resort live together and interns will experience an authentic remote dive resort working environment. Everything is more expensive in Raja.

Expect to pay 30%-50% more for items then on main land Indonesia. But everything is provided for you, 3 local meals per day, drinking water, coffee and tea.

Accommodation Your home away from home is 6-bed traditional wooden bungalows with fans and bug nets. The outdoor classroom converts into our main social area in the evenings. The ocean is at your doorstep and the jetty extends to the reef crest, which is where you will typically spend your sunsets.

Who should choose the Raja Ampat Project This is our most remote location and is not recommended for new travellers or those who expect a 'Bali Instagram' experience. Life can be challenging but also the most rewarding. This is the most biodiverse region in the world, above and below. A true naturalist's playground. Be ready to encounter incredible creatures on the daily.

PACKAGES Packages depend on your current diving experience....

Projects like this rely on the generosity of our partners and volunteers to develop and grow. In order for us to create an awesome adventure for you we do require a tuition to cover your expenses. The price of each package depends on the location you choose.

ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE: ACCOMMODATION, LOCAL AIRPORT PICKUP, TWO PROGRAM SHIRTS, VISA ASSISTANCE, PRE-ARRIVAL TRAINING MATERIALS AND SUPPORT, & EIGHT CONSERVATION AND RESEARCH SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS. THE RAJA PROJECT

01

PACKAGES ALSO INCLUDE THREE MEALS A DAY.

DIVEMASTER

PROGRAM LENGTH: 8 WEEKS

For applicants who have completed their Rescue Diver certification Courses Included: PADI/SSI Divemaster, Species Identification, Shark Conservation, Manta Conservation, Turtle Conservation, Mola Conservation, Mangrove Conservation, Nudibranch & Macro Specialty and, Ocean Gardener Coral Diver certification.

02

Rescuer

PROGRAM LENGTH: 10 WEEKS

For applicants who have completed their Advanced Diver certification Courses Included: All from 01 DIVEMASTER plus Rescue Diver, EFR CPR/First Aid & Oxygen Provider

03

advanced

PROGRAM LENGTH: 12 WEEKS

For applicants who have completed their Open Water Diver certification Courses Included: All from 02 RESCUER plus Advanced Open Water Diver.

04

zero to hero

PROGRAM LENGTH: 14 WEEKS

For applicants with no diving certification Courses Included: All from 03 ADVANCED plus Open Water Diver.

05

Researcher

PROGRAM LENGTH: 6 WEEKS

For applicants who are certified Dive Professionals Courses Included: Species Identification, Shark Conservation, Manta Conservation, Turtle Conservation, Mola Conservation, Mangrove Conservation, Nudibranch & Macro Specialty and, Ocean Gardener Coral Diver certification.

Diversity makes us strong!

WHO ARE OUR INTERNS?

Our interns come from every corner of the world. Everyone has a different background but we share one thing in common, our love for the ocean!

Our community is made up of ocean enthusiasts, gap year travellers, career changers, and university students from ages 20 - 60.

You don't need to be a diver or a scientist to get involved. Around 60% of our applicants join us from a formal scientific background and 40% just want to get involved and learn more.

Some are preparing to land a job in the marine sectors or using IOP as part of their academic journey, others just need a well deserved break.

We pride ourselves on being a career stepping stone and CV builder. You will gain lots of hands-on experience and internationally recognised courses and certifications.

HOW TO APPLY Start your application online

First step is to apply online!

Complete the online application, our admissions officer will contact you within 48 hours to confirm your start date and location and will send over your application package.

Application package Complete a short interview questionnaire and submit your CV, copies of your diving certifications, and medical questionnaire within 2 weeks.

We will review your application and send you a response within 5 days.

Accepted!

If you are accepted the next step is to review your Welcome Guide with all the information about planning your arrival. At this time a 50% deposit is required to secure your start date.

Availability There is limited availability and our projects tend to fill up around 6-8 months in advance. We work on rolling start dates, that means when one intern leaves another one will come to take their place. We offer around 2-3 starting dates per month so having more flexibility with program dates means you have a better chance of getting what you want.

Contact info@indooceanproject.org for questions and find out our next availability.

PAYMENT STRUCTURE To secure your place in the program, payments are made in three installments across your admissions timeline.

This allows flexibility while helping us prepare for your arrival.

Here’s how it works:

01

Payment

20% of your total program fees

Due: within 2 weeks of receiving your acceptance

02

Payment

40% of your total program fees

Due: 3 months before your scheduled start date

03

Payment

40% of your total program fees

Due: due on your arrival (scheduled start date)

WHAT OUR GRADS ARE SAYING...

Find our what our interns think about us....

Aayush India - Graduated July 2022

Tia USA - Graduated June 2022

Natalia UK - Graduated July 2023

Shannen Australia - Graduated July 2023

Helen Hong Kong - Graduated Feb 2022

Mario Italy - Graduated Dec 2021

The training staff are true educators. They are patient, kind and enthusiastic about diving and conservation. They instill their passion and love for the ocean into their interns. They are always available for any issue and are truly compassionate people that I am humbled to have known.

My experience with Indo Ocean Project was absolutely magical. This program taught me not only how to be a dive professional but how to care for our ocean on a extremely deeper level. I was always supported and encouraged. There was never a time where I felt I was alone. IOP is a family full of amazing people that look out for each other. They cheer for you and hope for your success!

I have spent the last year taking part in various marine conservation internships, I can honestly say my time with Indo Ocean was unlike anything else- in the best possible way!

I can't even begin to express how good this internship was, I went to the Nusa Penida for the Zero to Hero program (14 weeks), and if I could do it all again I would without question. I have made lifelong friendships with people all across the globe and will always have a little dive family in Penida.

The way that Indo Ocean Project combine divemaster training and conservation work gives meaning and purpose to your dives here. You are not trained to just be a dive professional, you are trained to be a conservationist with impeccable diving skills.

The program is very complete and detailed, doesn't.matter what is your starting point, they build you up to be a confident and competent diver while enhancing your knowledge about conservation and ecology.

Interested in coral reef restoration? Indo Ocean Project is partnered with Ocean Gardener, an Indonesian NGO offering intensive coral reef ecology. and restoration internships and courses.

Join a course: Coral Diver Advanced Coral Diver Specialty Course Or sign up for their 2 or 5

week internship program.

Dedicated to teaching people about corals