Need to Know
Age & Required Experiences
- At least 18 years of age
- Keen interest in marine conservation & a desire to learn
- Good for students studying or interested in studying Marine biology
- PADI Open Water Diving Certificate. *Those who do not have their diving certificate will be required to do upon arrival. Diving certificate not included.
Accommodation & Meals
All volunteers stay at the project site located on Koh Seh Island. Accommodation is based in shared bamboo bungalows. Due to the island’s remote location amenities are basic but clean and comfortable. The project site has a large common area for socializing, eating, working & relaxing. The rest of the island is yours to explore. Only those apart of the conservation team are permitted to stay on the island.
Volunteers are provided three meals a day at the project. Meals are freshly prepared by the staff at the project site and are usually a mixture of western & local delicacies. Special considerations can be made for those with strict dietary requirements. Water, Tea & Coffee is provided whilst other beverages are available at your own expense.
Opportunities to return to the mainland during the weekend for recreational time are available at your interest.
PADI Open Water Dive Certificate
Roughly 50% of the work done at the Marine Conservation Project is done whilst scuba diving, including research done on the reef & seahorse survey projects. Thus we require all volunteers to have their PADI Advanced Open Water Diving Certificate. Volunteers who are not yet certified can undertake the appropriate course operated by PADI Instructors whilst at the Marine Program.

Orientation & Support
MyGapYear offers unlimited support prior to departure. Upon receipt of your deposit you will receive your MGY Handbook, which includes comprehensive information on Cambodian customs, culture, what to wear, traditional Khmer meals and important words in the Khmer language.
Project leaders from the Marine Conservation are present to help guide & manage your day-to-day activities and address any concerns you may have. Additionally, MyGapYear offers 24/7 on-call support during your stay to ensure your trip runs smoothly and assistance is available in the event that any issues should arise.
Arrival
All volunteers must arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport at least the day before the project begins. You will be greeted by a MyGapYear Staff Member at the airport & taken to your accommodation for the first night. The following morning you will be transported to the Marine Conservation office located in Kep. From there you will catch a boat to the island of Koh Seh, where the project is located.