What’s the booking procedure?
Firstly, we ask you to fill in an application form so that we have your details – this does not commit you to anything, it is simply to help us to help you in addition to reserving you a place on your chosen trip. The application form link is available on all of our trip information pages and here. After we have received this, we will invite you to come in for one of our open afternoons or if you live too far away, we will book you in for an informal phone interview or online presentation. This is so that we can get to know a little about you, be sure you have chosen the best trip for you and so that you know what to expect from your time overseas. The final stage is to complete a health form, sign our terms & conditions and send these in to us with a non-refundable (but exchangeable) deposit of £250 to guarantee your place.
Do I need to be able to dive?
No. All your training can be done in the UK or in our host countries. Elements of the project do not even require you to dive at all; snorkelling, community work and many other elements can be enjoyed. For questions call 01444 474744 and speak to Chris.
Who else will be going?
Divers, students, gap-year travellers, marine enthusiasts, conservationists, shark-lovers and anyone who wants to try something new, exciting and make a difference. The age range could be between 18-55 but the avergae for groups is around 28 years old. Groups are mixed and from a huge variety of countries including the UK, Argentina, Venezuela and Denmark to date...
Do I get equipment included?
All the equipment you need to dive is included, a dive computer of your own is very useful and a good investment for the future if you are going to continue diving. If you already have your own equipment, including BCDs and REGs, then you will get some free dives depending on the length of your stay; generally around four free dives for a one month project.
How many dives will I do?
24-28 dives per month - depending on project site (additional snorkels, surfing, and working on school workshops are included).
What will I see?
A huge variety of marine life; from the smallest nudibranch (tiny colourful worms) to the enormous whale shark (the biggest fish in the sea) and migrating humpback whales. You will get a really fantastic view of the marine environment, its diversity, beauty and dependence upon our actions to survive.
What will I do when i'm not diving?
From snorkelling to working in the local schools and communties you will be involved in every aspect of our work. The range of additional work aside from diving is huge and changes depending on the project site. For more information call Chris on 01444 474744.
How well are trip Leaders qualified?
Quest Leaders have extensive experience of the region and the demands of the country. In addition they have be rigorously selected and trained by our experienced Operations Managers. All Leaders are Wilderness First Aid qualified and have had experience of working with teams of young people. Enthusiasm and an energetic nature are also essential qualities. All staff have an experience of working on and running marine projects, are professional divers with experience of marine conservation field work and have been trained in Emergency First Aid.
Are there any conditions that would stop diving taking place?
Our leaders and in-country partners have been running dive operations for years. Weather permitting, only factors deemed unsafe or local emergencies would stop any dive taking place.
Am I likely to encounter any dangerous wildlife?
None of the wildlife we focus our research and conservation efforts on are harmful. Once trained by our leaders, our volunteers should be conducting their work in an exemplary fashion which reduces the likelihood of any such events. Of course, you will be amongst nature which is somewhat unpredictable, but all precautions are taken.
Do I need to be fit?
Expeditions and project work can be demanding and can involve long hours. To make sure you get the most out of your trip try and do some mild exercise two to three times a week before you leave.