Join us
We expect to encounter a diversity of marine life and explore a variety of habitats. From baby sharks in the mangroves to pelagic predators in the tongue of the ocean.
Research Expeditions
Our main research location is Andros, which is the largest island within The Bahamas. Andros offers an impressive array of diverse and dense habitats, and is home to a broad assortment of life. Andros is largely unexplored, with limited scientific surveys having been conducted there, particularly in regard to its elasmobranch fauna. Each year, our science team will run week-long research intensive expeditions to the east side of Andros with the aim of contributing critical data to our hammerhead, sawfish, silky shark, Caribbean reef shark and sharks of Andros projects.
Each expedition will be led by one of our resident scientists, an experienced field technician, and seven research assistants (you). Research assistants will be immersed all week in mini classes, such as knot tying and equipment preparation, followed by in-field experience, and for some, actively participating in research activities.
We will conduct a variety of science-based activities, which will include some of the following: baited remote underwater video surveillance deployments (BRUVs), drum line surveys, poly ball captures and more. We are truly excited to learn more about the sharks and rays of Andros, and we thank you in advance for your support.
Support Conservation
Your participation will not only contribute to funding our work, your physical presence in assisting us will directly support our research efforts.
experiences to remember
We pride ourselves on creating a great atmosphere on our trips, forming amazing memories that we hope will last a lifetime.
Learn on the job
You will observe, be trained on, and participate in hands-on research. You will view how research methods are established and how how data is collected.
What to expect
As a research assistant, you will be a fully integrated member of our team. Be assured that you will be trained for every activity, so no previous experience is necessary. You will receive lessons on basic boating, knots, and essential shark anatomy, among other fascinating topics. Throughout the week, you will also be given relevant lectures and presentations by our expedition leaders. You will be taught theory on how to process and ‘work up’ a shark for research, including taking DNA samples and tagging where appropriate. Depending on your experience level and education you will also take part in these activities. Expect some long days, hard work, and some challenging situations such as night time activities. These expeditions are not for people seeking a holiday, they are working trips where you will be directly contributing to our research efforts. Please take a moment to read our June 2023 Blog which provides a detailed day-by-day insight into a Saving the Blue research expedition.
Where does your money go?
Research assistants’ trip fees will go immediately into our nonprofit and will fund the trip entirely, contributing towards flights, accommodation, equipment, fuel, boat hire, and bait, to name a few. PLEASE NOTE: Saving the Blue is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations, including research expeditions, are tax deductible.
Who can join?
Anyone! This research trip is open to everyone. All participants are required to be able to swim, and have some experience with snorkeling and outdoor adventure, with a keen interest in sharks and marine life. We do prefer some previous shark experience, however we pride ourselves on helping guests learn to overcome fears and enhance their confidence in and on the water during interactions with wildlife. If this interests you, don’t hesitate just because you don’t have former experience. We understand and encourage dream chasers, and would like to give everyone an opportunity to be part of our journey in making a difference.
***** TO NOTE: As per the Bahamas Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP), participation in all or some of the activities will be dependent on your experience and education level. Those with a marine biology degree (or similar) will participate in all tasks, those without this level of relevant education will take part in all activities that do not involve the handling of an animal e.g. a shark or ray. All assistants regardless of experience and education will participate in equipment creation and deployment, data collection, they will also attend lectures and presentations****
Costs
$3000 for 6 nights, 7 days
We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the $3000 cost is a donation which funds the trip.
Includes:
Return flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Andros, The Bahamas;. on island lodging, food, drink, all boating activities, lectures, and training are also included.
Does not include:
Flight to and from your location to Fort Lauderdale Airport in Florida. Does not include any required COVID tests, a VISA if one is required or insurance. You are also expected to bring your own snorkeling gear, such a mask, fins, snorkel, and booties.
Secure your spot:
You can secure your spot on a trip by paying a deposit HERE or clicking the button below. Alternatively, email us at contact@savingtheblue.org to confirm availability and pay the nonrefundable 20% deposit ($600) to hold your spot! Full balance due 90 days before departure.
Dates
2025
February16-22nd - SOLD OUT
March 23-29th - SOLD OUT
June 15-21st - SOLD OUT
June 21-27th - SOLD OUT
June 27th-3rd July - SOLD OUT
November 30-6th - SOLD OUT
+ Jupiter Expeditions
2026
February 15-21st - 7 positions
March14-20th - 7 positions
June 14-20th - 7 positions
November 28-4th Dec - 7 positions
+ Jupiter Expeditions
