3 days, Age 13+
What is the ReefCheck EcoDiver course?

The ReefCheck EcoDiver Course is a 3-day introductory course in Reef Monitoring and Surveying techniques. This course is aimed at certified divers who want to contribute to ReefCheck’s Worldwide survey of reef condition.

You will be certified to conduct your own Reef Check surveys and take an active role in conserving your favourite coral reefs around the world. Your data can be submitted to ReefCheck’s global database.

If you’re not a diver yet, but you’re interested in reef conservation and want to participate in one of our programs - no problem! Arrive a few days early and you can be certified as a Open Water Diver in just 3-4 days.

What can a Certified EcoDiver do?

By joining our Reef Check monitoring team, you can help monitor and track the world’s reefs. As you know, our reefs, both tropical and temperate, are in a state of crisis.

Reefs today look vastly different than they did only 30 years ago.

* Big fish are scarce.
* Some marine creatures have disappeared completely.
* Over 45% of the world’s reefs are severely threatened by human activities including over-fishing, destructive fishing, pollution and global warming.

People have caused these problems. We can provide the solutions. By becoming a certified Reef Check diver, you can help nurse our reefs back to health by participating in monitoring surveys and conservation worldwide.

ReefCheck’s surveys have shown that with proper monitoring, management and protection, coral reefs can recover. It is up to us.

What will I learn?

This course is designed to teach you everything you need to know to conduct full scale Reef Check surveys.
In this program you’ll learn about the globally standardised Reef Check methodology as well as how to identify key indicator fish, invertebrates and substrates selected by Reef Check for global monitoring and conservation of coral reefs!
Sounds like a lot? It is! But all those who have taken the course have fully enjoyed every last bit. This course will allow you to join the Reef Check monitoring team and assist in underwater surveys around the world.

The EcoDiver Course provides training in globally standardised Reef Check methodology.

You’ll learn how to identify different types of coral formation and to access whether they are healthy or damaged.

You’ll identify key indicator fish and invertebrates selected by Reef Check for global monitoring and find out how to collect data that can be submitted to ReefCheck’s global reef-monitoring database.

The course includes a Buoyancy Check-Dive to refresh your buoyancy skills, a dive on our house reef and 2 dives to some of the most interesting and diverse dive sites of Thailand.

Who can participate?

You should be eligible to become a certified ReefCheck EcoDiver if you meet the following criteria:

* Aged 13+
* Certified Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
* Interested in Reef Conservation
* In general good health and fitness
* Not suffering from cold or ear infection
* Have successfully completed the Aqualogy Buoyance Check Dive

If you have any concerns about your buoyancy skills, please consider participating in a Peak Performance Buoyancy clinic before you start the course.

How often do the courses run?

Courses start twice a month. To find the exact dates - have a look on the course schedule. You can book now, or come in to see us while you’re here.

Course Duration is 3 days.
Approximate timings for each day are either;

* 9:00am - 4:30pm, or
* 8:00am - 3:00pm

How much does it cost?

The course is 12,800 THB. This includes, all your training, manuals, slates, dive equipment rental and transfers to and from your resort. It also includes lunch, tea, coffee and water throughout the course.

On the boat, we supply breakfast, lunch, drinking water, soft drinks and fruit. We also provide a selection of fruit juices, chocolate milkshake and towels on each trip.

We keep group sizes small to ensure you receive maximum benefit from your tuition. This also minimises negative impact on the reefs. Our emphasis is on safety, fun and personal service within a relaxed and stress-free environment.