Placencia, Belize
Protect the Belize barrier Reef & dive into Island Life for Certified Divers Only
Escape to Tom Owens Caye, a remote tropical island off the coast of Belize, and live the adventure of marine conservation. Join ReefCI’s passionate team of scientists and divers as you help protect one of the world’s most vibrant marine ecosystems. Spend your days scuba diving in turquoise waters, removing invasive lionfish, monitoring sea turtles, and exploring coral reefs teeming with life. At night, unwind under the stars with beach bonfires and island-style dinners. This is more than just a trip—it’s your chance to live sustainably, learn deeply, and connect with nature in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Please note that this specific experience is exclusively for certified divers. You must hold a valid Open Water certification (or higher) prior to arrival to participate in this program.
- Anthony Saner
- Host Worldpackers dal Apr/2025
Date disponibili
27/12/2027 01/01/2028
- Prossimamente
More dates available soon
Dates to book this experience for 2026 and 2027 will be available soon, stay tuned!
Mostra di piùA partire da
US$ 1.212
Requisiti
- Intermedio Inglese
- Open Water Certificate
- You need to have a valid Open Water License. To engage in snorkeling activities, swimming skills must be from intermediate to advanced.
- Open Water Certificate
- Più di 18 anni
Itinerario
Giorno 1
Mattina
Arrival
The host will meet you and the group at Placencia, and you'll take the boat together to the project.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – Orientation
Kick off your island escape with a warm welcome! Meet your hosts, settle into your curated room, and dive into an exciting program intro. We’ll wrap up with a breathtaking overview of the island’s hidden gems.
Pomeriggio
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch
Enjoy your first lunch with the team.
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Presentation
Dive into the world of the lionfish, learn the traditional craft of coconut spear sharpening, and gear up with a professional dive orientation.
3:00 PM – 05:00 PM – Dive 1 (Shore Dive)
Dive into crystal-clear waters to perfect your form! This essential buoyancy and skills check ensures you’re balanced and comfortable before the real adventure begins.
Sera
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Free Time
After an epic day underwater, it’s time to kick back. Swap stories and share laughs with your new dive buddies as the sun sets. Whether you’re looking to find a quiet corner to unwind or bond over the day’s best sightings.
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Dinner
Group dinner to wrap up your first full day.
Giorno 2
Mattina
6:30 AM – 7:00 AM – Morning Coffee
Wake up with a coffee and an island sunrise.
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Dive 2
Gear up for your first official lionfish dive and play a vital role in protecting the reef.
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM – Lionfish Fillet & Dissection
Go beyond the dive and become a citizen scientist! Learn the expert techniques to clean lionfish safely and dive into their fascinating biology.
9:00 AM – 09:45 AM – Breakfast
Fuel your body for the day ahead! Savor a delicious, hearty breakfast designed to recharge your energy after the morning's excitement.
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Presentation
Dive into the captivating history of the lionfish invasion, exploring how they arrived and their impact on the blue wild. It’s a powerful story of ecology and resilience that will change the way you see the ocean forever.
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM – Dive 3
Return to the reef for another thrilling round of lionfish hunting. With your skills sharpened, descend into the blue to track more targets and protect the coral ecosystem.
Pomeriggio
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM – Fillet Lionfish
Join forces with your fellow divers to clean and prep the day’s catch.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch
After a morning of action, sit back and refuel with a delicious, well-earned lunch.
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Presentation
Dive deep into the fascinating history of how the lionfish arrived and why they’ve taken over.
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM – Dive 4
Submerge for another thrilling hunt, tracking the invasive lionfish through vibrant coral landscapes.
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Clean Lionfish
A bigger catch means more hands-on practice in the art of lionfish cleaning. Sharpen your techniques, refine your precision, and become an expert at preparing this invasive species.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Free Time
Hit the pause button and soak up the tropical bliss! Whether you’re lounging under a tree or exploring the island’s hidden corners, this is your time to recharge.
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM – Dinner
Fuel up before heading out.
Sera
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM – Night Dive
Gear up for an exclusive night dive as the reef’s nocturnal world awakens. For our advanced divers, this is a rare chance to witness the hunt under the stars and see the ocean in a whole new light.
Giorno 3
Mattina
6:30 AM – 7:00 AM – Morning Coffee
Start your morning with pure island vibes and coffe.
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Dive 6
Join the hunt as the reef wakes up, tracking invasive lionfish through the crystal-clear morning tide.
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM – Fillet Lionfish
Head to the cleaning station to prep your fresh catch, refining your skills in safely handling and filleting lionfish.
9:45 AM – 10:15 AM – Plastic Pollution Presentation
Through this powerful presentation, explore the staggering impact of plastic pollution on our marine world.
9:00 AM – 9:45 AM – Breakfast
Savor fresh flavors and local favorites while the ocean breeze sets the mood, it’s the perfect time to refue
10:15 AM – 11:45 PM – Dive 7
Back into the ocean for a mission with meaning! Every descent is an opportunity to protect the reef's delicate balance and give native species a fighting chance.
11:45 PM – 1:00 PM – Beach Clean-Up
Join the team for a rewarding beach clean-up to remove debris and protect the island's natural beauty.
Pomeriggio
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch
After an active morning, it’s time to sit back and refuel with a hearty, delicious lunch designed to recharge your battery.
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Turtle Talk
Dive into the fascinating world of sea turtles and learn why these graceful creatures are vital to the Caribbean's health.
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM – Dive 8
Make your final descent as the afternoon light softens across the reef! This is your last chance of the day to sharpen your aim and protect the coral's inhabitants.
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Fillet Lionfish
Master the art of the perfect cut! Now is the time to refine your technique and handle your catch like a pro.
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Free Time
Unwind and embrace the best of island life! Whether you’re cooling off with a refreshing swim, lounging in the sun, or sharing stories with fellow adventurers, this is your time to connect and recharge.
Sera
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Dinner
Gather 'round for a spectacular meal, sharing the highlights of your dives and discoveries.
Giorno 4
Mattina
6:00 AM – 6:30 AM – Morning Coffee
Start your day with a moment of pure serenity and coffe.
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Dive 9
Dive into the crystal-clear morning tide for another mission with meaning! Track the invasive lionfish as the reef comes alive, using your skills to protect the delicate balance of the ocean.
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM – Clean Lionfish
Take this time to sharpen your prep skills, focusing on the careful removal of spines and the art of the perfect fillet.
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Breakfast
Savor every bite of a fresh tropical breakfast!
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Lionfish Presentation
Dive deep into the biology of the ocean’s most beautiful invader!
10:45 AM – 12:30 PM – Dive 10
Experience the ultimate underwater double-feature! Descend into the blue to glide alongside graceful sea turtles before switching gears for the hunt.
Pomeriggio
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM – Fillet Lionfish
Join the crew to process the day’s catch, sharing tips and techniques as you turn a successful hunt into high-quality fillets.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Lunch
Recharge your spirit with a vibrant, flavorful lunch! Dive into a spread of fresh local ingredients and perfectly prepared dishes that celebrate the spirit of the island.
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Learn about Belize
From the lush rainforests to the colorful streets, learn how this nation’s deep connection to the land and sea shapes its identity and its world-leading conservation efforts.
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Dive 11
Use this last dive of the day to scan the coral crevices for any remaining lionfish, ensuring the reef is left a little safer than you found it.
Giorno 5
Mattina
6:00 AM – 6:30 AM – Morning Coffee
Savor the stillness of your final morning in paradise!
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Dive 12
For one last time, descend into the blue to clear the reef and protect the native fish you’ve spent the week guarding.
9:00 AM – 09:45 AM – Breakfast
Enjoy your final island feast! Gather with the group to savor tropical flavors one last time. It’s the perfect moment to celebrate new friendships and the real difference you made for the ocean. Say goodbye to paradise with a full heart and great memories!
09:45 AM – 10:30 AM – Checkout & Departure Prep
Time to wrap things up! Settle your tabs, share your traveler info for the journey, and get your gear packed for the boat ride back.
Cosa è incluso
Cosa non è incluso
Requisiti
- Intermedio Inglese
- Open Water Certificate
- Più di 18 anni
Attività
Scopri le attività che trasformeranno il tuo viaggio in un'avventura epica.
Opportunità di apprendimento
Contribuisci al tuo progetto e crea un impatto positivo mentre sviluppi nuove competenze.
Marine Conservation Education
Learn about coral reefs and marine animals and discover how we can protect our reefs
Sea Turtle Conservation
Protect endangered sea turtles through nest preparation & monitoring
Snorkeling
Explore vibrant coral reefs and spot tropical fish up close, even on your surface intervals
Attività di immersione
Conosci la cultura locale e vivi un'autentica Esperienza di viaggio con attività incluse nel tuo itinerario.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Glide over crystal-clear Caribbean waters and enjoy stunning views of the reef and the horizon.
Beach Clean-ups
Weekly beach and island trash/plastic removal on islands of the Belize Barrier Reef
Kayaking
Paddle around the island solo or with a buddy. Peaceful, energizing, and completely free
Video
Opzioni di alloggio
Cabins & Shared House
Travelers will stay in shared, rustic beachfront cabanas or in a shared house on Tom Owens Island, a pristine sanctuary surrounded by the breathtaking turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Just steps from the shore, you’ll fall asleep to the soothing sound of gentle waves and wake up to stunning ocean views each morning. The cabanas are simple yet comfortable, featuring single beds with mosquito nets, fresh linens, and ocean breezes that keep the atmosphere cool.
There is no Wi-Fi or cell signal on the island—this is a perfect opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and yourself. Shared composting toilets and rainwater showers provide an eco-friendly, sustainable setup, allowing you to live in harmony with the island's natural environment. This minimalist accommodation offers a unique opportunity to embrace the island's raw beauty while minimizing your environmental footprint. It’s an experience that invites you to immerse fully in the island's tranquility and simplicity.
- Nessuna lavatrice, ma c'è uno spazio gratuito per il bucato
Pasti
All meals are freshly prepared on the island by a chef! Our local cooks prepare three hearty meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), blending Caribbean flavors with international favorites. Meals are served buffet-style and are designed to fuel your days of diving and conservation work.
🍳 Breakfasts may include scrambled eggs, pancakes, fresh tropical fruits (like pineapple, watermelon, or papaya), oatmeal, and toast with spreads.
🥗 Lunches are light and energizing, often featuring dishes like veggie stir-fry with rice, pasta salads, burritos, or fresh sandwiches with sides.
🍛 Dinners are more filling and usually include a protein (like chicken, fish, or beans), rice or potatoes, cooked vegetables, and a salad. You might enjoy local specialties such as coconut rice and stew chicken, or grilled fish with plantains.
🧁 Occasional desserts and snacks (like banana bread or cookies) appear too, especially after a long dive day!
🥦 Vegetarian and vegan options are available at every meal, and we’re happy to accommodate most dietary restrictions. Just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly!
Orientamento all'arrivo
As the project is on an island, your host won’t be able to offer airport pickups or drop-offs, but getting to them is super easy!
Once you land at Placencia Airport (PLJ), you’re just a 10-minute taxi ride away from town, where all the recommended hotels and guesthouses are located. Taxis are usually waiting right outside the airport, but if you don’t see one, the front desk can call one for you—it’ll arrive in minutes.
The ride costs around $10 USD and takes you straight to your hotel. After booking your trip, you'll receive access to the Program Guide with your host’s personal recommendations for where to stay.
Your host recommends arriving in Placencia the day before the boat transfer to the island so everything runs smoothly. Exactly meeting times and boat departure info will be shared in the Program Guide after booking.
Informazioni sul progetto
- Ospitato da Anthony Saner
Located on the pristine Tom Owens Island in Belize, Reef Conservation International (ReefCI) is dedicated to protecting one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders: the Belize Barrier Reef. Since 2006, ReefCI has been at the forefront of marine conservation, engaging passionate volunteers in hands-on work that directly impacts the health of our oceans. From sea turtle conservation to invasive species management, ReefCI’s work is vital to the preservation of marine biodiversity and the longevity of the reef.
Through research, education, and practical conservation efforts, ReefCI aims to inspire and equip future environmental stewards. Volunteers at ReefCI not only help preserve this beautiful ecosystem but also gain invaluable experience in marine biology, scuba diving, and conservation practices.
Anthony is the heart and soul of ReefCI. A wildlife biologist and educator with nearly 20 years of experience in Belize, Anthony has dedicated his life to the protection of the Belize Barrier Reef and its incredible marine life. He is a passionate conservationist with a deep understanding of the region’s delicate ecosystem, and his expertise makes him an invaluable guide to all volunteers who join the project.
Informazioni sulla destinazione
Placencia is a charming coastal village located in the southern part of Belize, known for its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and proximity to both the Belize Barrier Reef and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the country, Placencia offers visitors the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural authenticity.
This vibrant village is home to a small but welcoming community, where local restaurants serve up delicious Belizean cuisine and the friendly residents make everyone feel like family. The streets are lined with colorful shops, art galleries, and places to relax, making it a great spot for those who want to unwind after a day of exploration.
Impatto e scopo
ReefCI is on the frontlines of marine conservation, fighting to protect the Belize Barrier Reef—one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. Through hands-on initiatives, we tackle critical environmental challenges such as overfishing, invasive species, plastic pollution, and coral bleaching.
Our private island research base is powered by passionate travelers who support our mission both in and out of the water.
In 2024 alone, we:
• Removed 6,477 invasive lionfish from protected waters
• Collected 14,200 pounds of plastic and trash from beaches and reefs
• Released over 1,000 baby sea turtles into the wild
• Logged 77,608 hours of data-driven conservation dives
• Delivered 354 educational presentations on marine ecology
Questo host contribuisce agli Obiettivi di Sviluppo Sostenibile
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I Viaggi di Gruppo di Worldpackers offrono un'opportunità unica di partecipare a progetti significativi come eco-agricoltura, conservazione della fauna selvatica e attività sociali, il tutto mentre si esplorano nuove culture. Dopo l'iscrizione, i viaggiatori assicurano il loro posto istantaneamente — senza dover attendere approvazioni per vivere la loro esperienza da sogno. Per mantenere tutto fluido, ottengono una linea diretta con un Coordinatore dei Viaggi di Gruppo di Worldpackers e con l'host, e una guida completa del programma, tutto pronto per permettere ai viaggiatori di immergersi in progetti di servizio mentre si godono il miglior tempo per l'esplorazione personale e culturale con viaggiatori che condividono gli stessi interessi.
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