Volunteer expeditions in Madagascar
Introduction
Madagascar is the 4th largest island in the world, and has been termed a "biodiversity hotspot" by ecologists, as 80% of the plant and animal species are unique to the island - a consequence of its 80 million year isolation.
In the tropical seas off the southwest coast of Madagascar lies one of these largest coral reef in the world. The Blue Ventures marine expedition site is located next to it, on the most westerly point of the island.
Blue Ventures do magnificent work, helping local communities and offering extraordinary volunteering opportunities that you'll remember for the rest of your life. |
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Blue Ventures' research and conservation projects are carried out by our volunteers, who work closely with our research scientists and Expedition staff.
Every 6 weeks a new team of volunteers arrives at the field site, ensuring year-round sustainability of our research in the region. We have, on average, 12 volunteers working at the camp, and we never have more than 3 volunteers working with each staff member.
In addition to volunteers, the camp comprises of Malagasy and international research scientists, as well as local and international Blue Ventures staff.
Our research in Madagascar aims to identify ways in which coastal communities can live sustainably within their environment. Through a combination of conservation and livelihood programmes, from marine reserves to sea cucumber farming to English teaching, we work to find ways in which the environment, biodiversity and life of the coastal communities in Madagascar can be safeguarded for the future.
The threats to the people and natural environment of southwest Madagascar are huge, ranging from climate change to overfishing, from deforestation to a lack of safe water to drink. Through a number of integrated programmes Blue Ventures seeks to address these threats not only to the environment, but also its population and their health.
Download our volunteer guide
- Download our Volunteer Guide brochure for more information
- Check out the Gallery to see photo graphs of day-to-day life, diving and pictures from the surrounding communities and Madagascar.
Past Volunteers - How do they describe their Blue Ventures Experience?
" I want to thank Blue Ventures for the most spectacular experience of a lifetime. Getting back home was the single most difficult thing to do and adjusting has been tough. You guys do a fantastic thing and it was such a pleasure to be part of it" - Courtney Pike, South African volunteer, March 2011
“As I am coming to expect, BV is a very thoughtful organization with a primary mission to be effective (rather than place volunteers). I am impressed-- again.” - Dr Tracy Ware, American volunteer, 2010
"I was part of a Blue Ventures expedition for my honeymoon back in 2008. Blue Ventures are an inspiration, and it is my hope that someday I can find the time to volunteer again, and go back and visit the wonderful people of Andavadoaka. But in the meantime my experience in Madagascar has led me to challenge what I need from life, and I have now successfully switched careers, leaving London and joining the renewable energy industry (BV's solar stoves were just the start!). Keep up the good work, BV deserve every award coming their way." - Will Turner, British volunteer, 2010
“For a previous non-diver it opened up a whole new world to me where I was getting excited and searching under rocks like a child! As a future Marine Biologist it just increased my passion for what I am about to study. The staff’s enthusiasm and the sea’s wonders was a real motivator and I will remember it forever.” - Cara Daneel, South African volunteer, 2008
If you wish to find out more about our previous volunteers (such as gap year students, university students, career breakers, families, couples & Indian Ocean scholars), please visit Day in the Life.
Where we work
In Spring 2003, Blue Ventures established its permanent field research in the village of Andavadoaka, 200km North of Toliara and 45km South of Morombe in Southwest Madagascar.
The small fishing village of Andavadoaka lies on the edge of a shallow lagoon, protected from the open ocean by a series of fringing coral reefs. In addition to the extensive fringing reefs, several banks rise up in the lagoon, and a series of uninhabited offshore islets and submerged barrier reefs also support substantial coral growth, providing a vital resource base for local traditional and artisanal fisheries.
The research team is based in a group of comfortable self-contained wooden eco-cabins situated on a coral outcrop overlooking white sandy beaches and the blue lagoon beyond.
View Madagascar in a larger map / View larger itinerary map
The project was launched as a collaborative venture between Blue Ventures Conservation and the Institut Halieutique et des Sciences Marines (IHSM) in response to the need to develop a better understanding of the area's unique marine and coastal habitats.
The reef systems of Andavadoaka are thought to possess a significantly higher abundance and diversity of marine life than any other reef in Madagascar. This is due partly to their remoteness and isolation, as well as the large distance to the nearest scientifically-studied reef habitats in SW Madagascar - in the Ranobe region some 200km to the south.
Despite the uniqueness of this marine habitat, no data on the status of the reefs existed prior to the establishment of our research site in the area.
The main objective of the Blue Ventures research programme in the area is to survey and chart the un-explored coral reefs of the region, studying their biodiversity and health, and assessing the potential threats to these unknown ecosystems.
Expedition team
Our staff are there to help you, train you and advise you. Our in-field staff comprises up to twenty full-time Blue Ventures representatives.
Click here to see our current team.
Heading our in-field team is the Expedition Manager, responsible for the day-to-day running of our field site. The Expedition Manager is in charge of all personnel on site, and is assisted by the other staff members.
All diving activities and training are co-ordinated and supervised by our Diving Manager, a qualified PADI Open Water SCUBA / Emergency First Response Instructor. On arrival at our site, the Diving Manager will brief you fully on all relevant aspects of expedition health and safety.
The day to day research you will be undertaking will be managed and supervised by our two Field Scientists, who work closely with the Diving Manager to plan each day’s activities. Our Field Scientists, experienced tropical marine biologists, are also responsible for volunteer science training at the beginning of each project.
In addition, our Science Coordinator is in Maagascar directing and supervising Blue Ventures’ overall research programme in the region and is assisted by our team of researchers and field scientists.
All of the science staff work closely with local biologists from Madagascar’s principal marine institute, the Institut Haliéutique et des Sciences Marines (IHSM), based at the Université de Toliara. Staff and students from the IHSM regularly visit the site, providing a wealth of local taxonomic, marine biological and logistical knowledge.
Whilst on site, your general health and well-being are looked after by the Expedition Medic or designated staff member, who will be available at all times in case of accident or emergency.
Who volunteers
We welcome applications from volunteers of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities.
We have, on average, 12 volunteers on site at any one time, and never have more than 3 volunteers per staff member.
In our experience these numbers allow us to maximise research, as well as ensuring that the team gets the utmost enjoyment from the research and allowing all of our volunteers close involvement in all of the projects and diving programmes. Larger groups would mean that volunteers would dive less and feel less involved in the projects.
Since 2003 we have worked with more than 1000 volunteers from all over the world, many of whom have no scientific or biological background or training. Our expeditions provide a challenging, educational life experience that is hugely enjoyable, gives all volunteers a comprehensive understanding of marine environments and coral reef ecosystems and can assist in advancing volunteers' careers or studies.
We are able to assist student volunteers wishing to carry out undergraduate and postgraduate research projects during their time with Blue Ventures.
For more information, or ideas on potential research topics, please see our Independent Research page.
Science training
Soon after arrival and acclimatisation at the Blue Ventures field site, volunteers begin an intensive and hugely enjoyable scientific training programme, working closely with the marine researchers based at the camp.
Training is largely field based, involving numerous snorkelling and diving excursions as well as informal lectures, small group discussions, and practice exercises of the various research methodologies that you are likely to use during your work with BV.
For more information, please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
The length of the Blue Ventures training period is dependent on a number of factors but will take a minimum of one week, but typically lasts 10 to 15 days, at the end of this period volunteers will be tested on the scientific material covered and are then ready to begin survey dives.
Testing ensures that our research team know that volunteers’ knowledge is of a sufficient standard to carry out underwater surveys with our marine biologists coordinating the research.
The Blue Ventures 6-week expedition cycle is tailored to ensure that volunteers are given suitable time to receive scientific training, as well as sufficient time to have a rewarding experience playing an effective role in the research team. We do offer shorter expeditions of 3,4 and 5 weeks and your training will be tailored to fit in with the duration of your stay.
SCUBA training
Both qualified and non-qualified divers can join our expeditions. All volunteers are required to be trained up to PADI Advanced Open Water standard or equivalent before they can participate in underwater surveys. Dive training is carried out in the first two weeks of expeditions.
Due to the nature of the research that you will be carrying out, it is essential that all divers are confident and well trained. For this reason Blue Ventures insists on all experienced divers taking refresher courses, if they have not dived in the six months prior to their expedition, before diving on Andavadoaka's reefs and our Advanced Open Water course includes the 'Peak Performance Buoyancy' Adventure Dive.
We are also able to offer extra courses for those volunteers who want to advance their diving qualifications. The Emergency First Response (EFR) course, Rescue Diver course and Divemaster course are all available to take on site. Please see the Expedition costs page for more information.
Costs
Our prices have remained the same for more than 3 years, but in response to inflation in Madagascar and Belize and in order to maintain our high standards on expeditions we have been forced to increase our prices as of 1st June 2013. The price increase will apply to all bookings taken after this date. We are keeping these increases as low as possible.
- Prices vary according to your current diving qualification (the more experienced you are, the cheaper your expedition. However, please don't let this put you off, as half of our volunteers have never dived before!)
- Prices listed are per person and are for shared accommodation of four volunteers per eco-cabin. If you would like your own eco-cabin, please add a supplement of 10% (for singles) and 5% each for couples/two people sharing (depending on availability). We can also accommodate families and groups.
- Discounts are given for trained medical personnel fulfilling the role of expedition medic. Please click here for details.
Pre-June 2013 prices
*Additional costs apply for dive courses (Open Water - £100, Advanced Open Water - £50)Expedition length (weeks) You are PADI Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) diver You are a PADI Open water (or equivalent) diver You have no diving certification Volunteer (not diving) Under 18s (not diving) Exped. Medic 3 wks £1,500 £1,600 £1,700 £700 £600 4 wks £1,700 £1,800 £1,900 £900 £750 5 wks £1,900 £2,000 £2,100 £1,100 £900 6 wks £2,000 £2,100 £2,200 £1,300 £1,000 £1,350* 7 wks £2,250 £2,350 £2,450 £1,500 £1,100 8 wks £2,500 £2,600 £2,700 £1,700 £1,200 9 wks £2,750 £2,850 £2,950 £1,900 £1,300 10 wks £3,000 £3,100 £3,200 £2,100 £1,400 11 wks £3,250 £3,350 £3,450 £2,300 £1,500 12 wks £3,500 £3,600 £3,700 £2,500 £1,600 £2,250* 12+ wks £200 per additional week £200 per additional week £200 per additional week £150 per additional week £100 per additional week £2,900* (18 weeks)
Post-June 2013 prices
| Expedition length (weeks) | You are PADI Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) diver | You are a PADI Open water (or equivalent) diver | You have no diving certification | Volunteer (not diving) | Under 18s (not diving) | Exped. Medic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 wks | £1,600 | £1,700 | £1,800 | £800 | £750 | |
| 4 wks | £1,795 | £1,895 | £1,995 | £1,000 | £800 | |
| 5 wks | £1,995 | £2,095 | £2,195 | £1,200 | £1,000 | |
| 6 wks | £2,125 | £2,225 | £2,325 | £1,400 | £1,200 | £1,450* |
| 7 wks | £2,400 | £2,500 | £2,600 | £1,600 | £1,400 | |
| 8 wks | £2,675 | £2,775 | £2,875 | £1,800 | £1,600 | |
| 9 wks | £2,950 | £3,050 | £3,150 | £2,000 | £1,800 | |
| 10 wks | £3,225 | £3,325 | £3,425 | £2,200 | £2,000 | |
| 11 wks | £3,500 | £3,600 | £3,700 | £2,400 | £2,200 | |
| 12 wks | £3,775 | £3,875 | £3,975 | £2,600 | £2,400 | £2,350* |
| 12+ wks | £225 per additional week | £225 per additional week | £225 per additional week | £150 per additional week | £150 per additional week | £3,000* (18 weeks) |
*Additional costs apply for dive courses (Open Water - £100, Advanced Open Water - £100)
Other costs
At Blue Ventures we strive to keep prices low on our expeditions to make our projects accessible to as many volunteers as possible. However, marine expeditions and research are more expensive to run than terrestrial programmes due to the high cost of boats, outboard motors, breathing air compressors and Scuba equipment.
Further information about costs:
What is included and what isn't
Your expedition cost includes:
- Return transfers from Tulear to Andavadoaka (for all volunteers completing full 6 week expeditions and multiples of 6 weeks)
- Expedition accommodation for the duration of your stay
- Three meals per day, including tea and coffee at breakfast and lunch
- Science Training with our team of Field scientists and researchers
- SCUBA Diving and SCUBA certification to PADI Advanced Open Water (depending on existing certification level)
- SCUBA Diving equipment: Buoyancy Control Device (BCD); Regulators; weight belt; weights and cylinder
- Comprehensive logistical support and pastoral care from our large team of permanent staff
- Health and safety provision from our Expedition Medic and SCUBA Diving Manager
Your expedition cost does NOT include:
- Flights
- Internal travel to the meeting point in Toliara
- Personal diving equipment: wetsuit, mask, snorkel, fins, watch or dive computer, dive torch and underwater slate
- Personal field equipment: e.g. sleeping bag; torch and mosquito net
- Malaria prophylaxis and vaccinations
- Entry visa for Madagascar
- Insurance
- SCUBA diving training manuals
- Carbon offset payment
- Spending money for drinks, snacks and souvenirs
- Hotel accommodation before or after your expedition dates
- More information about all these purchases can be found in the Volunteer Guide.
Additional dive training
PADI Scuba Tune-Up - £49 (including manual and decal)
- This is compulsory for all divers who have not dived within six months of their expedition start date.
- You may chose to participate in a Scuba tune-up before you arrive in Madagascar and we can help you choose a suitable dive centre or Instructors.
- This course is designed for divers to tune-up their diving skills and safety knowledge before diving again. A PADI decal (sticker), attached to your certification card, denotes successful completion of the course.
PADI Emergency First Response - £95
- It is a requirement for all PADI courses that you have your own copy of the relevant course manual. We can provide this manual for £14 including delivery costs but you may wish to purchase it from a local supplier.
PADI Rescue Diver - £245
- It is a requirement for all PADI courses that you have your own copy of the relevant course manual. We can provide this manual for £24 including delivery costs but you may wish to purchase it from a local supplier.
PADI Divemaster - £395
- It is a requirement for all PADI courses that you have your own copy of the relevant course manual and required materials. We can provide these, please contact us for latest prices.
Volunteers wishing to undertake dive courses whilst on an expedition should inform Blue Ventures prior to the start of your expedition. It is possible to decide to take a dive course whilst on your expedition subject to a price supplement of 15% for the course manual and materials.
If you book a course in advance and decide during your expedition that you do not wish to take the course, the course fees will be refunded but not the cost of the course manual. Please note that it is a requirement for every student to have their own copy of the relevant PADI manual.
Payment protection
Blue Ventures (Expeditions) Limited is a company committed to customer satisfaction and consumer financial protection. We are therefore pleased to announce that, at no extra cost to you, and in accordance with ''The Package Travel, Package Tours Regulations 1992'' all passengers booking with Blue Ventures (Expeditions) Limited are fully insured for the initial deposit, and subsequently the balance of monies paid as detailed in your booking confirmation form. The policy will also include repatriation if required, arising from the cancellation or curtailment of your travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Blue Ventures (Expeditions) Limited. This insurance has been arranged by Towergate Chapman Stevens through HCCI International Insurance Company PLC.
In the unlikely event of Insolvency you must Inform Towergate Chapman Stevens immediately on 01932 334140 or alternatively in writing to Towergate Chapman Stevens, Towergate House, 22 Wintersells Road, Byfleet , Surrey KT14 7LF. Please ensure you retain this booking confirmation form as evidence of cover and value.
Policy exclusions: This policy will not cover any monies paid for Travel Insurance or any claim relating to Air Flights. Please ensure the Company you have booked with has the appropriate CAA / ATOL Bonds in place.
Dates
We recommend that you join at one of our Expedition start dates (first table). There are also mid-expedition start dates available (please see the second table), and further flexibility for start and end dates can be offered.
If you do decide to join or leave an expedition midway, please note that you are responsible for arranging your own transport from Antananarivo ('Tana') to Toliara (Tulear) or Morombe. We can arrange your transport for you from Toliara or Morombe, options include a 4x4 with driver for approximately £240 per transfer from Toliara (split amongst the number of passengers), or public bus and boat transfer for £40 per person from Toliara, or 4x4 with driver from Morombe for approximately £40 per person.
We also run very popular overland expeditions from Antananarivo (the capital) to Toliara. This trip departs at 06:30am, so we advise volunteers to arrange their flights to arrive in Antananarivo at least the evening before the departure date. The trip covers 1,000km, through some of the most famous national parks in Africa. The cost for this 4-day trip is £185, and includes minibus hire, driver, accommodation, national park entry and park guides. We also offer a 3-day return overland trip (from Toliara to Antananarivo) at the end of expeditions for £160. Please let us know if you're interested.
We currently have volunteer vacancies for our Andavadoaka project starting and finishing on the following dates:
Expedition start dates (transfers to and from our expedition site and Toliara are included in expedition cost)
| Overland tour (Tana - Toliara) | Project start date | Project end date | Overland tour (Toliara - Tana) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28-Mar-13 to 31-Mar-13 | 2-Apr-13 | 13-May-13 | 16-May-13 to 18-May-13 | current expedition |
| 12-May-13 to 15-May-13 | 17-May-13 | 27-Jun-13 | 29-Jun-13 to 1-Jul-13 | spaces |
| 25-Jun-13 to 28-Jun-13 | 30-Jun-13 | 10-Aug-13 | 12-Aug-13 to 14-Aug-13 | few spaces remaining |
| 9-Aug-13 to 12-Aug-13 | 14-Aug-13 | 24-Sep-13 | 26-Sep-13 to 28-Sep-13 | spaces |
| 22-Sep-13 to 25-Sep-13 | 27-Sep-13 | 7-Nov-13 | 10-Nov-13 to 12-Nov-13 | spaces |
| 6-Nov-13 to 9-Nov-13 | 11-Nov-13 | 22-Dec-13 | by arrangement | spaces |
| 30-Dec-13 to 2-Jan-14 | 4-Jan-14 | 14-Feb-14 | 16-Feb-14 to 18-Feb-14 | spaces |
| 12-Feb-14 to 15-Feb-14 | 17-Feb-14 | 30-Mar-14 | 1-Apr-14 to 3-Apr-14 | spaces |
Mid-expedition start dates (Blue Ventures can arrange transport but you are responsible for your own transfer costs)
| Project start date | Project end date | Status |
| 22-Apr-13 | 5-Jun-13 | spaces |
| 6-June-13 | 19-Jul-13 | spaces |
| 20-Jul-13 | 2-Sep-13 | spaces |
| 3-Sep-13 | 15-Oct-13 | spaces |
| 17-Oct-13 | 28-Nov-13 | spaces |
Frequently Asked Questions
Expeditions and Money
How do I join an Expedition?
Simply complete our online application and a member of the team in London will contact you in response to your application.
Can anyone go on Expedition?
Typically our volunteers are between the ages of 18 – 60 but anyone can join a Blue Ventures Expedition providing they are in a reasonable state of fitness; we demand that volunteers are checked physically by a Doctor prior to departure, to ensure a good level of health and you will need to complete medical forms that your Doctor must sign. Volunteers must also be comfortable in the water and able to swim 400m confidently and tread water for 2 minutes unaided.
I am an international citizen - can I go on a Blue Ventures Expedition?
Blue Ventures has alumni from all around the world, from India to Alaska, and all are welcome on our projects. However applicants must be able to speak and read English, as all literature and lectures are in English.
What is the average age of a Blue Ventures volunteer?
Blue Ventures has had volunteers of all ages from 18 – 70. Often the best friendships are formed over the most unlikely of age ranges. We do however insist that all volunteers who wish to SCUBA dive are at least 18. We accept volunteers under 18 to participate on non-diving projects and families are welcome to join.The average age of our volunteers is 28.
When do the expedition dates start throughout the year?
Please check out the dates of our expeditions.
How long can I stay?
Generally volunteers stay from 6 weeks to 12 weeks, but if you are enjoying yourself, and we are enjoying having you, essentially the stay can be as long as you wish. The longer a volunteer stays, the lower the price of the additional weeks.
If I can't go for the whole 6 weeks, can I still go?
The projects rely on some continuity evolving within groups of volunteers. Science and SCUBA training (if you are not already a diver) can take up to 3 weeks. This may mean that if you attend for a 3-week duration you might not get the opportunity to become so involved with the research surveying work. However, there are terrestrial-based projects that you can also contribute to, so it is worth phoning us to discuss how we can tailor your time on site.
Will I meet my fellow volunteers before the expedition starts?
Volunteers are put in contact with the entire expedition 6 weeks before the expedition. This helps to break down some barriers before volunteers even meet each other. It also allows volunteers to co-ordinate their travel movements if someone is unsure of travelling. We also offer an overland trip from Antananarivo to Tulear that departs four days before the start of each expedition. Most volunteers join this trip and get to know each other on the journey.
What’s included in my expeditions fees?
This price includes all aspects of the expedition on site, from science training, to board and lodging and includes all diving kit (apart from mask, snorkel, wetsuit, fins, dive knife, slate and watch).
Who do I make cheques payable to?
Please make all cheques payable to Blue Ventures Expeditions.
How much money do I need to take with me?
Whilst onsite there will be little or no opportunity to spend money - this is one of the benefits of running a remote site. Your main expenditure may be a well deserved Coke after a long hard day in the sun. Time in Madagascar itself will never be too expensive and monies can be tailored to suit the most lavish or the most thrifty traveller. We find a good rule of thumb is £20 per day when travelling and £5 per day when on site. Additional charges that you may need to budget for include sending/receiving emails and phone calls via our satellite system.
If I pull out will I lose all my money?
Blue Ventures asks for an up front £100 deposit which is non-refundable in all circumstances. It is also very important that you sign the Booking Conditions when you pay your deposit. This will guarantee you a place on your chosen expedition. Volunteers who pull out 4 weeks or less before the start of the project will not be refunded at all. Volunteers who pull out before this date will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. In the unlikely event that you are not able to attend an expedition and you have already paid your balance, your travel insurance company will be able to offer you a refund. Please check your policy for more details.
Do I need insurance?
To go on a Blue Ventures Expedition we require you to have two forms of insurance, basic travel insurance and specific diving insurance provided by Divers Alert Network. They are our chosen partner for our SCUBA emergency evacuation plan and we insist all BV Volunteers have a DAN insurance policy.
Do I need a Visa?
Most nationalities will need a Visa when entering Madagascar. Please note in most cases this can be obtained at the airport, or can be purchased before departure. For further details please read the Volunteer Guide.
Diving
Do I need any diving experience?
No – dive courses are conducted in the first week of a scheduled 6 week expedition period. You can also take additional PADI dive courses whilst on site.
Do I need my own diving equipment?
We provide Buoyancy Control Devices (BCDs), scuba tanks, regulators, weights and most other gear you will need on site. What you will need is a wet suit. You will be wearing this daily for 6 weeks, so it's imperative it fits and is comfortable. A mask, snorkel and fins are essential - these are the most important pieces of kit which need to fit the individual. Dive slates and pencils are also essential for our research work underwater as you record survey data. Other items you will need include a dive watch or, preferably, a dive computer, a dive knife and a dive torch (if you wish to snorkel or dive at night time - perhaps one of the most exciting dives we do).
What if I have diving accreditation through BSAC, NAUI or another Organisation?
All Volunteers must be trained up to Advanced Open Water (PADI) or equivalent, please contact Blue Ventures London office to check your qualification level if you have trained with a different SCUBA training agency.
How much diving will I do in a week?
We dive 5 days out of every 6. You will normally dive an average of once per day, and occasionally twice per day. The majority of our dives are science related - for example, dives might include training sessions, recording fish and benthic transect data or searching for new reef sites. Diving is strictly weather dependent due to safety and subject to logistical restrictions.
What dive courses are offered while on expedition?
All expedition members are trained up to PADI Advanced Open Water, although there are the opportunities to reach Rescue Diver and Dive Master.
N.B. Please note that volunteers must be onsite for a minimum of 2 expeditions to complete their Dive Master and must complete in this order: Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Emergency First Response, Rescue Diver and finally Dive Master.
Other
What do we have to learn?
BV will take each and every volunteer through a detailed teaching scheme to learn species that are being researched. A high proportion of the material is self-taught, by completing snorkels and dives doing fish, coral and invertebrate “spotting sessions” with other team members and Blue Ventures research personnel.
What are the tests like?
The tests are there to ensure that the data collected is scientifically viable and that the research we are carrying out is the best available. The tests are designed to make sure that you know the different species that you will be researching. We have some practice tests so you'll be familiar with all the different species before you get out to Madagascar.
How do I get there?
Flying to Madagascar isn't as difficult as it may seem. There are regular flights from Paris, Milan, Bangkok, Johannesburg, Nairobi and Mauritius to Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, and we have links with travel agents to ensure the best possible prices and in order to ensure availability. We recommend checking prices from Air France, Air Madagascar and Corsair.
When I get there how do I get to Andavadoaka?
Blue Ventures representatives will meet you in Tulear, the regional capital for the south west of Madagascar, the evening before the start of the expedition. To get there is either a simple plane journey from the capital Antananarivo, or we offer a popular overland minibus tour. The tour last 3 days, travels 1,000 kilometres, and stops at some of the most spectacular national parks in Africa. If you're interested in this tour, please let us know at the time of your application, as the trip fills up fast.
What will the weather be like in Madagascar?
Madagascar is a huge island that spans several latitudes and as such, weather and temperatures vary across the island. There are two main seasonal variations, the Hot / Wet season (November to March) where the temperatures soars, making diving very pleasant due to the water temperature. The Dry season (April to October) where it is slightly cooler, making a wetsuit a necessity.
How safe is travelling in Madagascar?
Madagascar is a safe country to travel in provided the same laws of common sense are obeyed as should be observed when travelling in any developing country.
Will my previous degree be of use to me during my Expedition?
The chances are that you will find aspects of a wide range of environmental courses in the Marine Science Training Programme that is taught out on site, and so any previous experience can be beneficial, however a degree is not a pre-requisite.
How can I be contacted whilst in Madagascar?
Owing to the remoteness of our field sites, communications in the field are not as straightforward as at home. However, we have mobile phone reception in the village as well as mobile internet for sending and receiving e mails. We also have a 24-hour telephone messaging service in case of emergency.
Can I use the data I collect on a BV expedition to write my dissertation?
Absolutely. Please have a look at our independent research page for suggested dissertation projects and feel free to contact us to discuss your dissertation with a member of our research team.
Do I need previous experience to go on a Blue Ventures Expedition?
No. With an extremely high staff-to-volunteer ratio, Blue Ventures employs fully qualified staff to tutor you in dive training and aspects of marine ecology in which you will be working on a daily basis.
How does Blue Ventures ensure the safety of its volunteers?
Due to the remoteness of Andavadoaka, we must have rigourous safety procedures in place. We employ only professional staff with the training required to ensure safe expeditions. On site, the Expedition Manager is in charge of safety for all the expedition volunteers and staff. The expedition Dive Manager is a fully qualified professional capable of dealing with onsite diving emergencies until outside help is reached. The Expedition Medic is well qualified for Expedition conditions and has access to a comprehensive medical station and 24 hour support whilst onsite.
What happens in an emergency?
In the event of an emergency, Blue Ventures has prearranged emergency procedures such as evacuation plans. These emergency action & evacuation plans can be put into action at a moment's notice. The Expedition Manager is in 24 hour contact with the London office, allowing the staff to liaise directly with their base. If you would like to see any of our Health and Safety protocols or evacuation plan please contact us.
What inoculations will I need when visiting Madagascar?
Before you go on a Blue Ventures expedition you should see your doctor or an accredited Travel Clinic who will advise you on the relevant inoculations necessary for Madagascar. As a guide the standard inoculations are:
- Polio, tetanus and BCG (Tuberculosis)
- Yellow fever (only necessary if staying in sub-Saharan Africa en route to Madagascar)
- Diphtheria
- Meningitis (A & C)
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
Gallery
Please click on the image below to view our Madagascar gallery:
