our Programs



1 Day Sea Turtle Conservation Program

Our Sea Turtle Conservationist Snorkeling Program offers participants a unique chance to explore Hawai‘i’s vibrant coral reefs while directly contributing to turtle conservation. Guided by experienced marine biologists and conservation divers, participants learn how to identify individual turtles through photo-ID techniques, document key behaviors, and understand the ecological role of these endangered species. Help us in the long-term protection of our vulnerable honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles).

1 day Coral Reef Ecology and Monitoring

Our full-day scuba diving program combines education, conservation, and hands-on experience in marine research, offering a deep dive into coral ecosystems and their crucial role in marine biodiversity. During the scuba diving excursion, you’ll engage in sea turtle photo-ID, name any new turtles found, and assist in coral reef monitoring using advanced 3d modeling and reef mapping techniques (photogrammetry). This immersive experience equips you with valuable skills and knowledge, and is an exciting way to contribute directly to coral reef restoration and conservation.

4 day conservation diver Ecological monitoring program

This 4-day program combines theoretical knowledge, practical training, and hands-on ecological monitoring, empowering participants to become certified ecological divers capable of contributing to marine conservation efforts worldwide. This program empowers you to become a proficient scientific diver, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the oceans while actively engaging in meaningful efforts to protect and sustain marine biodiversity. (8 total dives)

6-8 week immersive Marine Research Internship

Our marine research internships offer aspiring marine scientists hands-on experience in sampling and design, project building, and real world restoration efforts. These internships incorporate daily fieldwork, advanced ecological monitoring, as well as conservation diver and PADI dive training. Interns will also develop and test their own research hypotheses, collect and analyze data, and report their findings, contributing to local marine conservation efforts, and gaining valuable skills for a career in marine science.

Reefs at Risk

In recent years, Hawaii’s coral reefs have faced a concerning trend of degradation, exacerbated by a surge in coastal development and heightened water activities for tourism and recreation.

The empirical data from the past decade underscores this alarming reality, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures in monitoring, maintenance, and restoration of various reef ecosystems.

As a response to these environmental challenges, our program aims to address the pressing issues faced by Hawaiian coral reefs, offering hands-on solutions to ensure their sustained health and biodiversity.

Through community engagement and innovative ecological monitoring, we strive to contribute to the revitalization and preservation of these vital marine ecosystems.

Our Approach

  1. Precision Monitoring: Utilizing our knowledge and state-of-the-art technologies, our team, including dedicated volunteers, conducts thorough ecological surveys. We specialize in photogrammetry as a compliment to coral restoration projects and monitoring substrate composition, invertebrate abundance, and fish diversity.
  2. Community-Driven Photogrammetry: Involving the community directly, our photogrammetry crowdsourcing project engages participants in creating 3D models of coral reefs using orthoimagery. Beyond raising awareness, this initiative provides crucial data for ongoing research.
  3. Empowering Regenerative Tourism: We’re reshaping tourism into a positive force. Programs like “Sea Turtle Conservationist” and “Coral Reef Ecology and Monitoring” empower participants to actively engage in marine conservation. By adopting Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, gaining insights into reef ecosystems, and supporting our initiatives, individuals become dedicated stewards of the ocean.

Services and monitoring solutions we provide for Partnerships

Monitoring our main restoration site

Sustainable Restoration Monitoring

consistent stewardship of restoration sites through our community based monitoring programs

Photogrammetry diving

Underwater Photogrammetry

Providing high definition orthoimagery of diverse and vulnerable coral reefs throguhout Hawai’i

Our volunteers in Maunalua Bay

Regenerative Tourism

Providing visitors a route of directly helping marine conservation efforts, fostering sustainable ocean stewardship

Ortho-mosaic database and regenerative tourism spotlights