HONOLULU ECO TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Six Weeks on Oahu: Immersive Coral Research with the Ocean Alliance Project
A 6-week Marine Research Internship in Honolulu that pairs classroom instruction with hands-on coral restoration, ecological monitoring and independent research, run by the Ocean Alliance Project.
Six Weeks on Oahu: Immersive Coral Research with the Ocean Alliance Project.
Set against the reef-lined shores of Honolulu, this immersive 6-week Marine Research Internship run by the Ocean Alliance Project trains participants in coral restoration, ecological monitoring, data analysis and independent research while contributing directly to reef conservation efforts.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hands‑on Coral Restoration and Monitoring
Participants receive practical training in coral restoration and benthic and fish surveys, conducting regular fieldwork that contributes to ongoing reef conservation projects.
Photogrammetry and 3‑D Reef Modeling
The syllabus includes underwater photogrammetry—using underwater cameras and Agisoft Metashape—to build 3‑D models and process survey data for interpretation and research.
Independent Research and Certification
Across four dedicated research weeks interns design and execute independent projects, present findings, and on successful completion receive the Conservation Diver Advanced Ecological Monitoring Certification.
What the day feels like
What the internship feels like
Expect an intense, structured mix of classroom sessions, daily field surveys and hands-on restoration in week 1–2, followed by a multi‑week independent research project that culminates in a formal presentation to mentors and peers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this internship suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a structured 6‑week internship combining classroom instruction, daily fieldwork and a multi‑week independent research project and presentation.
Bring equipment for photogrammetry (underwater cameras), a laptop for data processing and presentations (software such as Agisoft Metashape will be used), notebooks and appropriate field clothing for in‑water work and boat/shore operations.
Interns are evaluated on fieldwork, data collection, data analysis and the quality of their research presentation; successful completion earns the Conservation Diver Advanced Ecological Monitoring Certification.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the internship?
The program runs for six weeks.
Where is the internship based and who operates it?
It takes place on Oahu in Honolulu and is organized by the Ocean Alliance Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to protecting Hawai‘i's coral reefs.
What skills and topics are covered?
Training covers coral reef ecology, benthic and fish surveys, coral taxonomy and disease identification, underwater photogrammetry and 3‑D modeling, data management and analysis, and scientific communication.
Is there a certification at the end?
Yes; upon successful completion interns receive the Conservation Diver Advanced Ecological Monitoring Certification.
How are interns evaluated?
Evaluation is based on fieldwork performance, the quality of data collection and analysis, and the final research presentation.
Can the syllabus change during the internship?
Yes; the syllabus may be subject to minor adjustments to accommodate unforeseen learning and research opportunities.