Join our Marine Conservation in the Bahamas Program. Students in our programs will study the environmental features of Andros Island including coral reefs, off-shore cays, seagrass beds, sandbars, blue holes, subtropical terrestrial habitats, Bahamian settlements, and more.

Students getting ready to SCUBA dive on Andros Island

Students getting ready to dive on Andros island

Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Learning and Certifications

Engage in a variety of amazing experiences on the Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Program, including:

  • Field Trips

  • Labs

  • Bahamian Culture

  • Ecotourism

  • Boat trips to the surrounding coral reefs or land excursions to various sites for biological, geological, or cultural significance. 

  • Earn 5 certifications

Students will gain hands-on experience studying marine conservation in The Bahamas and understanding how to properly research, measure and evaluate marine ecosystems in order to understand how to harness and protect these resources. Watch our Forfar Field Station Experience video to learn more about the experience.

During my six weeks I was able to gain more hands-on experience and knowledge about marine life, conservation and ecotourism
— Tenee Burrows, Summer 2021 Cohort
 
Students birding on Andros Island, The Bahamas

Students birding on andros island, the bahamas

Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Details

Meet fellow science lovers and travelers thrilled by the adventure of learning about marine conservation in The Bahamas and the natural beauty of the island. 

  • Ages: 18 - 24

  • Dates: 

    • Fall 2025 Cohort: October 27 - December 5, 2025

    • Winter 2026 Cohort: January 12 - February 20, 2026

  • Location: Andros Island, The Bahamas 

  • Pricing: $6,750 

    • Includes: Lodging, 3 meals a day, inner island flight, ground transportation, all field trips and excursions, Dive, Kayak, and WFA certifications and instruction, and trip facilitators/environmental educators. 

students earning their PADI dive certifications

Students earning their PADI Dive certifications

What to Expect in the Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Program

Live on beachfront property while studying the crystal clear Caribbean waters during our Marine Conservation in The Bahamas program. Participants will immerse themselves in: 

  • Marine Biology

  • Service Learning

  • Bahamian Culture 

  • Scuba Diving and Sea Kayaking

  • Island Ecology and Geology of The Bahamas

  • Reef Fish/Marine Invertebrates ID

  • Sustainable Fishing Coral Reef Biology/Conservation

  • Mangroves

  • Blue hole water chemistry

  • Ecotourism

Our sites described in the Sites and Sights guide offer more details about daily trip locations during the Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Program.

 
students relaxing at a blue hole on Andros Island

Students relaxing at a Blue Hole

Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Itinerary

  • Week 1: Introduction to Marine Biology

  • Week 2: Service Learning, Exploring the Bahamian Culture, and the Island Ecology of Andros

  • Week 3: Sea Kayaking

  • Week 4: Wilderness First Aid/ Leave No Trace

  • Week 5: PADI Open Water Diving

  • Week 6: PADI Advanced Open Water Diving

At the end of each day come back to the Field Station to play beach games, gather around the campfire, or walk down to the local ice cream shop for a treat. Every Thursday, experience Bahamian cuisine at a local restaurant.

 
View from the veranda at Forfar Field Station

View from the Veranda

Next Steps

Step 1: Sign Up

  • Fill out our application to apply for this Marine Science Conservation program.

Step 2: Pay Deposit

  • Once accepted, to secure your spot on the trip you need to pay a deposit.

Step 3: Passports

  • Make sure you have a valid Passport that does not expire within 6 months of your travel date.

Step 4: Review Packing List and Pre-Departure Documents

Forfar exceeded my expectations and I loved it! The whole trip was very educational and captivating. It made me think about what type of job I want to pursue in life.
— Abbey Haynes
 
students getting ready for a day on the water

students getting ready for a day on the water

Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Packing List

Please take the time to read through our packing list for our Marine Conservation in The Bahamas program. Important notes are highlighted and we encourage using biodegradable, environmentally-friendly brands. You can support International Field Studies (IFS) by visiting our Product Links page.

 
Accomodations at Forfar Field Station

Cabins

Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Accommodations

Our location for the Marine Conservation in The Bahamas trip is at Forfar Field Station, Andros Island. Our Field Station is a rustic former dive resort nestled on a beachfront coconut grove on the east coast of the island. Each cabin has 3-4 sets of bunk beds, electricity, fans, and a private bathroom with hot water and a shower. WIFI is available in our lodge for all guests. Check out this video to tour our location.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Program

1. How do I sign up? - click here to apply for our Marine Conservation in The Bahamas program. 

2. What will the weather be like when we are there? - we recommend you check the weather before your trip. 

3. Can you tell me more about Andros Island? - Read our Blog Post for more details about Andros Island. 

4.  Will I need a passport to travel to The Bahamas or can I use another form of identification? - You must use a valid government issued passport book to enter the Bahamas. Birth certificates and other forms of identification will not be accepted. 

5. Do you offer scholarships for The Marine Conservation in The Bahamas Program? Yes - visit our scholarship application page.

6. Can I receive college credit? Yes - The option to earn credit for this program may be possible through a university/college you are currently enrolled in or by enrolling in Seattle Central College’s "Travel Study" course SSC297 or by applying to Wright State University’s “Study Abroad” course. Contact our office for more details.