Aquatic Conservation Internships: Intern abroad in Athens, Greece
Located in the heart of Greece’s stunning Amvrakikos Wetland National Park, this immersive internship offers an opportunity to actively contribute to vital research. Aquatic Conservation interns play a role in protecting vulnerable marine and wetland species. Gain insight into the impact of local conservation policies and strategies, helping to ensure the long-term preservation of aquatic health and biodiversity.
What to expect from your Aquatic Conservation internship:
- Collaborate in one of Greece’s most important protected areas.
- Support the survival of critically endangered species.
- Enjoy the beauty of Amvrakikos Wetland National Park.
Your internship abroad host organization:
- Environmental organization for the preservation of aquatic ecosystems
Internship details
Nestled in the heart of Greece’s breathtaking Amvrakikos Wetland National Park, this internship offers a unique opportunity to become an integral part of crucial marine conservation efforts. Surrounded by one of the most ecologically rich areas in the Mediterranean, you will be involved in protecting and preserving the delicate balance of aquatic flora and fauna.
This is an in-country internship, with accommodation included. You can explore remote internships, if you are looking for an internship program that you can undertake at home.
Aquatic Conservation internships are hosted through an NGO environmental organization, dedicated to the preservation of aquatic ecosystems. The internship itself takes place in the city of Menidi, West Attica, approximately 4 hours from Athens. Menidi is a popular site for tourists, providing rich insights into traditional Greek culture and lifestyles.
From this location, interns can easily access the Amvrakikos Wetland National Park. As one of the country’s most significant natural reserves, the site provides Aquatic Conservation interns with a wealth of insight and experience.
The protected wetlands span a large area between the Ionian Sea and the Pindus mountain range. The park encompasses sixteen natural habitats, including salt water marshes, lagoons, river deltas, and freshwater wetlands - all of which provide vital habitats for a wide array of species. Included within the Amvrakikos Wetlands National Park, the Amvrakikos Gulf is a critical nursery for shark and ray species. This site serves as a unique research zone, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore elasmobranch biodiversity and more.
As an Aquatic Conservation intern, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with experts from a leading marine conservation organization focused on safeguarding important marine and wetland biodiversity. Interns support local researchers with vital conservation efforts for some of the region’s most endangered species, such as the Critically Endangered Spiny Butterfly Ray and Duck Bill Eagle Ray.
Come with an adaptable and proactive mentality, to develop key skills in research techniques, data collection, analysis, scientific communication, and teamwork. You’ll gain hands-on experience in aquatic conservation, participating in activities ranging from snorkeling in the Gulf’s waters to conducting drone surveys.
All interns must be prepared to assist with office/admin based activities, in addition to hands-on fieldwork. Weekly tasks can include field activities, as well as office and lab. However, there is no fixed schedule for outdoor activities, since these are planned according to weather conditions, seasonality, and various research priorities. All tasks related to data collection and data analysis in the field require follow up work on a computer - all interns should bring their own laptop.
Tasks can include (but may not be limited to):
- Collecting and analyzing data on shark and ray populations to support long-term marine biodiversity conservation.
- Visiting local ports to gather data on bycatch and fishing practices, aiding sustainable marine resource management.
- Conducting underwater surveys using snorkeling and BRUVs to monitor species presence and behavior.
- Participating in aerial drone surveys to track fishing activities and assess coastal ecosystems.
- Assisting with laboratory research, including bioanalysis and data interpretation, to understand species’ diets and roles in the ecosystem.
- Supporting public awareness campaigns and engaging with local fishing communities to encourage sustainable practices.
If you have specific objectives in mind for research or data collection, please communicate in advance. Preferences are subject to availability, as conservation and research priorities vary throughout the year.
Typical Schedule
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Internship activities take place Monday through Friday, approximately 8 hours per day. Aquatic Conservation internships are available from the first week of April until the last week of October. Activity schedules can vary based on weather conditions and seasonal projects. Conditions are hot in the summer months, especially during July and August. Outdoor activities can be physically demanding and a reasonable level of fitness is required. Come prepared to be flexible and adaptable to conditions and site priorities.
What are the career benefits of interning abroad as a Aquatic Conservation Intern?
Aquatic Conservation interns learn from a qualified and experienced supervisor, and can be involved in:
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Collecting and analyzing data.
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Aiding sustainable marine resource management.
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Conducting underwater surveys.
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Participating in aerial drone surveys.
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Assisting with laboratory research.
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Supporting public awareness campaigns.
Professional development opportunities:
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Work closely with experts from a leading marine conservation organization.
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Gain hands-on experience in marine conservation.
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Develop key research, data collection, analysis, communication, and teamwork skills.
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Learn about diverse conservation priorities and the initiatives or policies that address them.
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Obtain insight into the unique biodiversity found in the Amvrakikos Wetlands.
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Gain practical skills and boost your employability, with guidance from Intern Abroad HQ’s Experiential Learning Curriculum to support your learning and cultural intelligence.
Are you eligible for this internship?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
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Academic credit available for all internships
Get course credit from your college or university while completing your internship abroad or a remote internship program. It's a great way to meet your academic requirements and gain valuable experience at the same time.
Learn about course creditProgram fees
Applying for our Aquatic Conservation Internship is completely free! The support package covers the assistance we provide in finding your internship and arranging your living accommodations in your host country, ensuring you thrive during your program.
Please note that a deposit of US$499 is required to confirm your place. The remaining balance (minus your initial US$499 deposit) is due at least 60 days before your internship start date.
Duration |
Program Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| 4 weeks | $2,964 Equivalent to $105 /day |
| 5 weeks | $3,364 Equivalent to $96 /day |
| 6 weeks | $3,779 Equivalent to $89 /day |
| 8 weeks | $4,569 Equivalent to $81 /day |
| 10 weeks | $5,334 Equivalent to $76 /day |
| 12 weeks | $6,054 Equivalent to $72 /day |
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- Program orientation
- Dedicated support before, during, and after your internship
- In-country guidance for social and tourist activities
- Sourcing and securing your internship placement
- Personalization of your internship plan
- Coaching from your supervisor
- Documented portfolio of your experiential learnings
- Academic credit facilitation
- International reference letter
- Certificate of Internship Completion
- All meals
- All in-country transportation
- Transfer back to the airport at the end of your internship program
- Visa (if required), flights, travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check
- Personal spending money for snacks, drinks, public transport, laundry, and leisure activities during your free time.
Free-time experiences & tours in Athens
Take your internship to the next level with Intern Abroad HQ's affordable activity and tour add-ons in Athens! Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto an internship program.
Sail into the Saronic Gulf, stopping at three of the most picturesque islands - Hydra, Poros & Aegina.
Activities and tourism
Menidi offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture. Interns can relax at nearby beaches, enjoying swimming, sunbathing, or water sports like windsurfing and snorkeling.
The region also boasts fascinating archaeological sites, providing a glimpse into Greece’s rich history. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding hills and nature reserves, while local markets offer fresh produce and handmade crafts.
For a spiritual experience, the Menidi Monastery and nearby monasteries offer beautiful views and historical insights.
Boat trips along the coast allow for scenic views of the Mediterranean, and local tavernas serve up delicious Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
Arrival and Orientation
Aquatic Conservation internships begin every Monday from the first week of April until the last week of October. Exceptions may be made to this when start dates are shifted to avoid public holiday disruptions or closed when the program has already reached capacity. Interns may choose to spend a minimum of 4 weeks, up to a maximum of 12 weeks.
Accommodation is included in the Program Fee. The accommodation is covered from the Sunday night before the Monday start date - interns are required to arrive no later than the Sunday before their Monday start date, as all orientations are held on Mondays.
The typical port of entry is the Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH). After arriving at the airport, interns will be met and transported to the Athens regional bus station. From here, transportation via bus will be arranged to the town of Arta. The bus fare for this trip will be pre-paid, as included in the internship Program Fee. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Buses depart daily from Athens Regional Bus station at 07:30am, 11:00am, 15:30pm, 20:00pm. Interns will need to ensure their flight into the Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos airport arrives in time for them to make their way through customs and to the bus station, in order to make one of these departures.
Upon arrival at Menidi, interns will depart the bus and be met by an internship host representative, who will escort them to their accommodation for check in.
The last night of the accommodation is the Friday night of the final week, leaving interns free to depart on Saturday. Return bus tickets to the Athens regional bus station are also included in the Program Fee.
Extra nights of accommodation can be arranged in advance, if requested, and are subject to availability.
Please note that all participants are advised not to book flights until they have first registered to confirm their internship placement.
Check what's required to visit Greece
Check out the widget below to learn about the visa requirements for the Aquatic Conservation internship in Greece, based on your country of residence.
Accommodation and WiFi
Aquatic Conservation interns are accommodated onsite, in shared program accommodation. No commute to and from the internship site is required, as office-based activities can take place in the dedicated spaces. Any required transportation for outdoor fieldwork activities will be arranged via the Environmental Organization and its local staff.
Interns should be prepared to share living arrangements. Participation numbers vary throughout the year, so the number of guests within shared accommodation varies. However, each guest will have a single or double bed. Rooming arrangements are same-sex, however the accommodation itself may be mixed gender.
Bedding and furnishings are provided, as well as common areas such as lounge, kitchen and laundry facilities. Standard amenities include whiteware (i.e. washing machine, stovetop, fridge, microwave) and clean linen (i.e. bed sheets, pillows, towels). Accommodation includes 24Mbps internet / WiFi access.
Cleaning is provided ahead of a new occupants arrival. Outside of this, occupants are responsible for respecting common areas, keeping them clean, tidy and comfortable for all guests. Laundry facilities are also available within the accommodation.
It is important to note that an accommodation bond will be requested from the accommodation provider. The cost of the bond is US$400, so you must budget for this. However, this bond is fully refundable to you, upon your departure, provided that inspection has been completed to confirm that you have not caused damage to the property.
Meals
Aquatic Conservation internships do not include meals, as affordable supermarkets are easily accessible and accommodation has kitchen facilities. Greece has a thriving coffee culture which is delightful to partake in (there is also WiFi in almost all coffee shops and restaurants). Try Ellinikos (a favorite style of coffee) along with Freddo Espresso / Cappucino and Frappe.
For eating out, interns may budget approximately 3 - 5 Euro for a light breakfast (about US$5 - 7) and 5 - 10 Euro for a simple lunch (about US$5 - 12). There are ample dining options ranging from budget to high end. Greek cuisine offers a range of incredible dishes to experience, including well known classics such as Moussaka and Souvlaki. The Mediterranean diet features meat (cow, chicken, lamb), pasta, rice, pulses, vegetables, and a variety of fish and seafood. When in doubt, skip straight to dessert and order Galaktoboureko (with ice cream)!
Keep in mind that personal budgets for food and meals can vary enormously, according to individual spending habits and lifestyle choices.
Essential country information
| Capital | Athens |
| Population | 10.75 million |
| Languages | Greek |
| Currency | Euro (€ - EUR) |
| Time zone | UTC+02:00 |
Weather and climate:
With its Mediterranean climate, Athens is one of the warmest capital cities in Europe. The summers are long, hot and dry and the winters are mild. The best time to visit Athens for the hot weather is from mid June to mid September. The hottest month is July, in which the temperature may peak around 92°F / 33°C. Heatwaves in Greece may occur but they are usually not prolonged (that coast moderates temperatures with coastal breezes). The cooler months are November through March. During this period, it rarely gets any colder than 42°F / 5°C in Athens (February is the coldest month). Rainfall in Greece varies throughout the year, although the summer months are drier in comparison. December is usually the wettest month of the year. Outside of Athens, the climate of Greece remains primarily Mediterranean. However, due to its mountainous regions, there is a range of microclimates and local variations. Snow regularly falls in the high mountains.
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