More photos from this internship can be found here.
Located in the seaside village of Waterville, this informative and interactive marine interpretive center promotes better overall understanding of Ireland’s marine biodiversity through engaging exhibits, fun workshops, and activities. A local marine biologist launched our partner organization in 2014 to provide marine research and education on the lovely Irish coast.
The center collaborates with and promotes local marine activity providers such as sea sports centers, wildlife watching trips, boat tours, and fishing trips. The center also supports wildlife charities such as Birdwatch Ireland and the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group.
Late May, early June
Awareness Center
The interpretive center holds some very rare whale and dolphin skulls and bones, models of fish, live animals in the tanks, a touch pool, an Irish marine life audio visual, exhibits on Irish whales and dolphins and lots more interactive displays for everyone to enjoy discovering Ireland’s fantastic marine life! A marine biologist is available to explain the amazing sea life found in the center and in Irish waters.
Center Activities
Our partner provides fun and interesting activities for both kids and adults to discover Ireland’s marine life and the importance of the sea in our daily lives. Nature connection is a key part of learning in all workshops. In support of local “clean coast” initiatives, each workshop includes a 5-minute beach clean to raise awareness of marine litter and help clear the beach of litter.
Sample Activities and Workshops:
Research at the Center
Research began in 2015 with a volunteer crew completing seal surveys in the Bay. Later, forty marine mammal surveys documented over 300 animals, including porpoises, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, rissos dolphins, minke whales, and humpback whales. Flora and fauna surveys of a local lake and wetland area provided the basis for the creation of a nature trail.
Education and Outreach Option
Research Development Option
Additional Skills Developed
*Fee amounts are calculated with an exchange rate from European Euro at the time of posting.
Interns arrange their own housing.
Learn more about the programs this partner offers here.
Summer: January 25
- Background in marine biology/environmental science or similar
- Keen interest in marine conservation and education