ORCA Foundation

Over the past 2 years the O.R.C.A. team have strived to turn Plettenberg Bay into a protected Ocean Marine Park. During your 4 week stay at the foundation you will become part of the O.R.C.A. family and help and assist in their long term projects and goals.

Southern Right whale breaching the waters surface only meters from the research boat you stand on? Or kayak across the calm waters of the Indian Ocean with hundreds of common dolphins swimming and playing along side your every paddle. Either way, it will be an experience you will never forget!

The O.R.C.A. Foundation in conjunction with Ocean Blue Adventures is based in Plettenberg Bay and is located on the world famous Garden Route. It is home to some of the worlds most fascinating marine species, including Southern Right whales, Humpback whales, Bryde's whales, Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, O.R.C.A.'s or Killer Whales, Great White Sharks to name but a few.

Gap year travel placements here give you a unique once in life time chance to work with these magnificent marine species in exciting and groundbreaking marine conservation volunteer work.

The experienced O.R.C.A. team will help settle you in over your stay and give you the opportunity to take on your own individual projects where your best interests lie. O.R.C.A. offers ocean research volunteers personal diversity in the programme, from assisting the dive research teams to helping with the community outreach programme, you will find your own way to contribute.

Volunteers will be working under the supervision of two Masters student's from Rhodes University and also have the chance to integrate with the rest of the team at O.R.C.A. and OCEAN BLUE ADVENTURES.

In your stay in Plettenberg Bay, (one of the most breathtaking and serene outdoor classrooms in Southern Africa), you should be lucky enough to witness the power and grace of whales, the exuberance of dolphins and killer whales, see playful seals and the majestic of mountains and forests scenery. Above all, being an ocean research volunteer will allow you to actively and meaningfully participate in ensuring that things stay this way for future generations.

Through the O.R.C.A. marine conservation project, you can join the drive to manage this marine and coastal zone in a sustainable manner and in the process experience the community, culture and environment in a way more intimate than most visitors.

Duration / Dates

1-2 weeks and 2-4 weeks

All Year

Costs / Pay

Various