Scuba Programs Abroad

Spend 28 days exploring the underwater world through photography on South Africa’s vibrant KwaZulu-Natal coast. This hands-on program is designed for students and emerging photographers who want to build their skills in a real-world setting. With guidance from professional underwater photographers, you'll learn how to shoot in challenging marine environments—focusing on lighting, composition, and camera settings. Daily SCUBA dives give you the chance to put new techniques into practice, with regular feedback sessions to help you improve. You’ll also learn about safe and responsible diving practices while working in one of the most biodiverse reef systems in the region. Whether you're aiming to boost your creative portfolio or gain practical experience, this course offers a unique opportunity to grow your skills and connect with other aspiring photographers in a dynamic, supportive environment.

Lying in the crystal-clear tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao’s abundant and diverse coral reefs offer some of the finest scuba diving found anywhere on the planet! The perfect location to maximize your diving and reef ecology experience, this exciting and in-depth program has been specifically designed for volunteers wishing to engage in marine conservation activities that protect, restore, and conserve Koh Tao’s coral reefs. With both 4 and 8-week programs available, get ready for a comprehensive marine conservation experience! If you're looking for a little more, join us for a full 12 weeks and complete an award-winning Divemaster training course, which is perfect if you wish to achieve a professional diving qualification that allows you to transform your passion into a paid job!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Join Maximo Nivel work-study-travel programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. We have been a leading educational travel and study abroad provider since 2003. - Volunteer Abroad - International Internships - TEFL Certification & Paid Teaching work - Native Spanish Program - and more... Volunteer abroad and get involved! Volunteer projects include Working with Kids, Construction, Animal Care, Conservation, Eco-Agriculture, Teaching English, and Medical and Healthcare placements. International internships provide excellent work experience abroad. Internship placements are available in Education, Special Education, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Rights, Micro-Business, and Medicine. TEFL Certification is your ticket to traveling and teaching anywhere in the world, and getting paid for it! Intensive teaching certification programs are available on-site in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru or via our online TEFL program. Native Spanish Programs immerse you in the language and takes your skills to the next level. All Maximo Nivel Spanish programs emphasize oral communication and integrated skills development to truly help build your Spanish language proficiency.

It's the kind of ocean expedition that aspiring marine biologists dream of—17 days on a live-aboard floating classroom: sailing, diving, and exploring the fascinating waters of the Caribbean. Set sail for a one-of-a-kind adventure with a small group of marine science enthusiasts just like you. You'll be part of a crew of seafarers whose curiosity about the ocean, marine species, and the role of marine parks will lead the team deep into the Caribbean's underwater realm. Chart a course for St. Bart's where you'll earn your PADI Open Water or Advanced Open Water certification. After studying and refining your skills, it's time to hit the water and observe the underwater species and phenomena the Caribbean is known for. Lessons aboard the yacht truly come to life when you dive below the surface and witness what you've just learned. In Saba, marvel at pinnacles rising 100 feet from the ocean floor and dive among groupers, jacks, sea turtles, and alien-like corals. In just 17 days, you'll see and do more than you ever thought possible and leave with lasting friendships, incredible memories, and a desire to build upon all that you've accomplished.

Travel to a country known for its equatorial climate and enter a year-round summer in Seychelles. Spend your days diving in the supreme clear waters of Mahe visiting different dive sites and islands. On your expeditions, you could see an array of marine life, such as dolphins, manta rays, octopus, whale sharks, varying fish species, coral reefs, and the endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. In collaboration with local partners and GVI staff, you’ll collect data, develop marine and environmental education programs, and survey for critical local governmental marine efforts. This is an opportunity to contribute to sustainable conservation efforts and level up your marine conservation knowledge and practical skills. GVI works alongside local partner organizations to ensure the successful outcome and longevity of all our programs. Use weekend trips to visit other islands and cities, explore botanical gardens and add recreational diving to your list. Start to better understand local traditional culture and meet fellow volunteers with varying national backgrounds.

We will explore the historical city of Chiang Mai, basking in the down-to-earth charm of this northern gem, shopping at local markets, enjoying a traditional Thai massage, and seeing lavish historic temples. Get ready to spend a day white water rafting down the mighty Pai River, taking in the scenic mountain surroundings and enjoying each other's company on the quiet river banks. Next, get ready for the Southern islands as we swap the jungle for the beach! We will swim, snorkel, scuba dive (optional), trek, and relax through this idyllic part of the world on the tropical island paradise of Koh Phi Phi and Krabi. Finally, jump into the bustling hub of Southeast Asia, Bangkok. Explore culturally historic icons, including the Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha, and Ayutthaya, before immersing yourself in the fast-paced street food scene, savoring pad Thai, and hunting for a bargain on Khao San Rd.

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

Join us for a transformative 21-day cultural immersion in Australia and Fiji. We start in Fiji with a warm welcome ceremony, engaging in hands-on cooking classes to explore the diverse flavors of Fijian cuisine. Our community service focuses on a meaningful meal program that empowers Fijian women and fosters connections through shared meals. Traveling to Viti Levu's scenic highlands, we immerse ourselves in traditional island life by participating in bamboo raft building and local farming activities. On Taveuni, we embrace “island time” with snorkeling, kayaking, and preparing traditional meals while learning local customs. Next, we head to Australia, beginning in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Here, we earn our SCUBA certification and experience breathtaking underwater biodiversity while staying on a liveaboard boat. Our adventure includes community service at a wildlife refuge, where we care for iconic Australian animals. We’ll also delve into Aboriginal culture in the Daintree Rainforest, learning traditional practices and the connection between the land and its people.

Discover Australia, one of the most environmentally and socially diverse places on earth. Beginning with a thrilling surf session in Sydney, you’ll be riding a wave of excitement until the very last minute. Whether you’re living aboard a yacht sailing the magnificent Whitsunday Islands, visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House, or cuddling a koala at the Billabong Wildlife Sanctuary, you won’t have time to digest one amazing moment before another sneaks up on you. While you explore, pick up some community service hours aiding the Daintree Observatory in re-building the rainforest, one plant at a time.

Explore the best of Australia with a 12-month visa. You'll have the ability to choose where you live, travel, and work; receiving support in the background during your adventure! Earn money to fund your travels, make a million friends and memories, and maybe take a side trip or two (Fiji anyone?). This program is geared towards travelers who want to do their own thing, but with a leg up in the job search. There are many seasonal jobs throughout Australia for proactive and independent travelers. Qualifications U.S. Citizen, 18-30 years old.

Journey to Vietnam this summer with Westcoast Connection and discover an ancient culture filled with unique and elegant beauty. As you discover this amazing country for yourself, you will be treated to spectacular views, flavorful foods, and exhilarating adventure. Engage in rewarding community service projects from the North to the South with children and an organic farming community. By the end of the program, you will be won over by the hearts of the Vietnamese. Westcoast Connection is a qualified Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

This exciting adventure will take our students to some of the best destinations on the Greek islands and mainland Greece, introducing them to one of the oldest, richest, and most awe-inspiring cultures of the world. Our students will marvel at the natural beauty of Crete and the Cycladic islands, washed by the turquoise waters of the Aegean sea, the colorful seaside villages, and some of Europe’s most spectacular beaches. They will learn about Greek history, mythology, and culture in a fun and engaging way, based on our Experiential Learning Method. The students will also participate in community service projects with our Greek partners, protecting animal habitat and fighting deforestation, sea pollution, and climate change. Key Details: Dates: July 10 - July 24 Locations visited: Crete, Santorini, Naxos, and Athens Housing: Hotels and student apartments

Discover the wonders of marine life in the Philippines while helping to save its oceans with Marine Conservation Philippines (MCP). As a volunteer, you'll get hands-on experience in protecting coral reefs, from building artificial reefs to surveying underwater ecosystems. These surveys help scientists understand the health of coral reefs and guide conservation efforts. But it's not just about diving. You'll also join MCP's efforts on land, teaching local schools and communities about ocean conservation. By spreading awareness and empowering others to take action, you'll be making a real difference in protecting marine life. From teaching first aid to organizing fun activities for kids, MCP volunteers are ambassadors for change, working together to preserve our oceans for the future.

From conducting wildlife and marine research and conservation to trekking through lush rainforests to analyzing blood test results, GoEco has you covered for your biological research volunteer opportunity or internship abroad! Join us in any destination to be a part of the solution. Adding photo identifications of whale sharks to international databases, observing Africa's Big Five species and gaining experience analyzing medical test results are just a few examples of the opportunities that we offer.

This program aims to bring a lasting, positive impact on the lives of some of Cape Town’s most impoverished children and youth ages 6 - 13. Volunteers are placed in a physical education program that runs in conjunction with the local public primary school curriculum. They help deliver a sports program and assist local teachers with classroom lessons. Days vary depending on the activities planned and each volunteer's creativity! The assistance of international volunteers is essential to the program's success in increasing the chances for local children to achieve their goals and ultimately improve their lives. Volunteers also spend two afternoons per week learning how to surf with a professional instructor at Muizenberg Beach, the most popular surfing beach in Cape Town, about a 20-minute drive from the volunteer accommodation.

Looking for a progressive gap year experience that blends travel, adventure, and skill-building? Our six-week Rock Climbing Program in Thailand is designed for those who want more than sightseeing. It's about pushing boundaries, learning leadership, and gaining certifications that set you up for future outdoor careers. • Climb epic crags in Railay, Chiang Mai & Tonsai • Earn internationally recognized climbing & first aid certifications • Immerse yourself in Thai culture & adventure travel • Turn your passion into skills that last a lifetime If you are looking for an experience that will have you meeting new people from all over the world while trying new food and experiencing a new culture, this program is the perfect choice.