Earthwatch Australia

Earthwatch needs qualified SCUBA divers to join their seven-day research expedition: Project Manta.

Based at Queensland`s Lady Elliot Island, participants will be working with marine researcher Dr Kathy Townsend, University of Queensland.

Each manta ray has a unique underbelly spot pattern, so your task will be to identify individual manta rays off the coast using photo-identification techniques.

Data collected will help determine the biology and conservation status of these little-understood, yet majestic creatures.

No scientific skills required, just a sense of adventure and intrigue!

Weeklong teams run: 8 – 15 February, 2014 14 - 21 June, 2014 6 –13, September 2014

Costs $3,595 per person (must be over 18 years) to join Project Manta SCUBA experience is necessary.

This financial contribution helps fund the research and covers the cost of all food, accommodation, equipment and flights to and from Hervey Bay.

Boat Description:

Sites Visited:

• open water
• surrounding an atoll
• rough seas with big swells
• good clarity
• likely to see manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, tropical fish and coral

Facilities:

• Scuba hire
• Own accommodation
• Own pool

• Showers
• Own Boat(s)