Ionian Dolphin Project

Book an expedition!!

Ionian Dolphin Project

Book an expedition!!

Watch and study dolphins and monk seals in the wild to ensure their conservation

You will fuel science-based conservation action aimed towards a respectful management of local resources, for the benefit of both marine mammals and humans

By joining the Ionian Dolphin Project you can help ensure the long-term viability of dolphins species and monk seals living in the coastal waters of the eastern Ionian Sea.

In 30 years, 2,000 non-specialist participants from over 40 nations, encompassing the five continents, have joined the IDP. They have provided deeply needed support and helped obtain crucial data.

Book a IDP expedition

What you will do

During your stay, you will be part of a dedicated scientific team working on the study and conservation of marine mammals. You’ll conduct daily surveys at sea, observing dolphins and monk seals in their natural environment, collecting field data, and contributing to ongoing research. Once back at the field station, you’ll help process scientific data and photos through photo identification, gaining hands-on experience in research techniques and marine conservation.

Discover more on the life in Vonitsa

Where

You’ll be based at our field station in the peaceful village of Vonitsa, located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Ambracia, a pristine region in western Greece. This area is home to one of the highest densities of bottlenose dolphins in the Mediterranean. You’ll live and work alongside experienced researchers, sharing in daily experiences that immerse you in the life of a conservationist while gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.

Discover more about the field base

Info

  • Informative brochure

    Download the IDP Expedition Briefing, where you will find any information needed to join us in the field (and much more). Please read it carefully before proceeding with booking and payment

  • Booking forms

    When you place your order and pay for your cruise you will receive an email with the links needed for downloading the Booking Forms. The forms must be filled and signed and sent back to the Tethys office via email (istituto.tethys@gmail.com) or via fax (+39 02 39 29 05 25).

  • Participation of minors (<18 yrs)

    In general, cruises are intended for adults. Children between the ages of 13 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Children between the ages of 16 and 17 may travel unaccompanied, but parents must contact the office at istituto.tethys@gmail.com before booking for a specific assessment. Parents of unaccompanied minors must sign specific documents (co-responsibility agreement and a booking forms for minors) before booking.

  • Student discounts

    Student discounts (10% of the full fee) are available during specific periods. To apply for a university student discount (for under 26), a copy of a valid student ID must be submitted via fax or email along with the fully signed booking form.

Selling conditions

Refunding

In case of cancellation a written notification must be sent to Tethys  not less than 30 days in advance, in order to be entitled to a reimbursement of 80% of the entire participation fee.

Cancellation

1) for those expeditions not reaching the minimum number of 3 participants, the Tethys Research Institute will reserve the right to cancel that expedition team (at least 10 days before its scheduled start); in this event the applicants affected will be fully reimbursed;

2) in case of a cancellation originating from any technical/logistical problem attributed to the Tethys Research Institute, the organisation will reimburse the applicants with the full amount of the participation fee (no additional reimbursements are foreseen) or, upon request, will try to place applicants in other expedition teams, depending on availability.

Read all our Terms & Conditions