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10-Day Marine Conservation Program Costa Rica
Our 10-Day Marine Conservation Program is an immersive educational experience designed for divers who want to understand, protect, and actively contribute to ocean conservation. Throughout the program, you will complete SSI specialties in Fish Identification, Marine Ecology, Sea Turtle Ecology, and Shark Ecology, gaining a comprehensive understanding of reef ecosystems and the species that shape them. Beyond the classroom, you’ll participate in survey dives and two dedicated days of citizen science field work alongside a marine biologist, applying your knowledge in real-world research settings. The program also includes a direct donation to CREMA, supporting ongoing marine conservation efforts in Costa Rica. This is more than a course, it’s a hands-on journey into marine science, sustainability, and meaningful ocean impact.
What You Will Do
Learn - Survey - Contribute
In addition to fish monitoring, this program includes:
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Shark monitoring
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Ray monitoring
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Sea turtle monitoring
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Two dedicated citizen science fieldwork days
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Direct donation to CREMA conservation initiatives
This is where diving meets real marine science.
Citizen Science Field Days
Learn - Survey - Contribute
During two dedicated fieldwork days, you will:
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Participate in structured marine monitoring
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Assist marine biologists during research dives
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Support shark, ray and sea turtle data collection
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Contribute to photo-ID and population tracking projects
You observe. You assist. You document. You see marine conservation in action.
Why Costa Rica?
A Global Biodiversity Hotspot
The Pacific coast of Costa Rica is one of the richest marine ecosystems in Central America.
In the waters around Playas del Coco and the Gulf of Papagayo, you may encounter:
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White tip reef sharks
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Eagle and golden cow-nose rays rays
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Mobulas
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Sea turtles (4 species)
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Large schools of fish
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Macro life
Seasonal access to:
• Catalinas Islands (manta season)
• Bat Islands (bull shark season)
Few places allow divers to combine biodiversity with structured scientific monitoring like this.
Who This Program Is For
Ready to Dive With Purpose ?
Ideal for:
• Divers wanting purpose-driven travel
• Future Divemasters and Instructors
• Gap year students
• Marine biology students
• Divers curious about conservation
Prerequisites:
• 18+ years
• Advanced Open Water (or upgrade before program)
• Minimum 15 logged dives
Why Train with
Rich Coast Diving
At Rich Coast Diving, marine conservation is embedded in our operations.
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Small personalized groups
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Professional SSI training standards
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Strong partnerships with conservation initiatives
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Ethical, non-invasive research methods
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Multilingual instructors
We bridge the gap between recreational diving and real marine science.
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