For those wanting to experience South Africa’s marine life up close while contributing to its protection, Raggy Charters is offering a unique international volunteering experience where marine conservation meets wildlife encounters, environmental education, eco-tourism and cultural exchange.
Marine Conservation in Algoa Bay
Based in Port Elizabeth, also known as Algoa Bay, Raggy Charters has been offering guided boat-based tours for over thirty years. Today, they are recognised as one of the region’s oldest eco-whale-watching companies and the only company to operate with all the permits required for responsible marine wildlife encounters.
Throughout the volunteer programme, participants will become part of a tight-knit team. Volunteers will participate in a wide range of activities, including environmental education, conservation initiatives, community outreach, marine wildlife monitoring and scientific projects. No previous experience is required, with the Raggy Charters team providing support and guidance throughout the programme.
Turning Wildlife Encounters into Conservation
Boat trips form an important part of the volunteering experience, providing opportunities to spend time at sea and observe whales and dolphins in their natural environment. During cruises, volunteers can assist with recording marine wildlife sightings, collecting field data and photographing wildlife. One of the key activities is photo-identification, with photographs and collected data contributing to longer-term studies of cetacean populations. This information can help researchers understand whale and dolphin populations, migration patterns, behaviour and conservation needs.
Life Beyond the Boat
Potential volunteers should remember that, like the sea, every day is different. The programme extends beyond boat trips with volunteers taking part in additional activities depending on the weather, wildlife sightings and ongoing projects. These can include:
- Environmental education
- Conservation initiatives
- Community outreach
- Planned events
- Logistical support
Participants may also assist with the daily running of the Raggy Charters base, including shared household tasks and caring for the company’s dogs. There may also be opportunities to visit nearby game reserves and national parks, adding a land-based wildlife experience to the programme.
Planning Your Volunteer Experience
The programme is available in one-, two- and three-month options, allowing volunteers to choose a stay that suits their schedule.
The one-month option provides an introduction to the programme for those who cannot remain for longer, while longer stays are recommended for volunteers wanting to become more immersed in the programme, develop their skills and make the most of what Raggy Charters has to offer.
Monthly fees cover several aspects of daily life during the programme, including:
- Shared accommodation
- Water and electricity
- Shared transport
- Fuel
- Vehicle maintenance and insurance
- Scheduled boat trips and marine excursions
- Volunteer training and guidance
- Conservation and educational activities
- Airport transfers
- Use of washing machine
Please note that fees do not cover international flights, medical insurance, food or personal groceries.
Get in Touch!
Those interested in joining the programme can apply by emailing addocanyonsresearch@gmail.com with the subject line ‘Volunteer application’. Applications should include an attached CV and details of availability.
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