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PROJECT INTRODUCTION
How about seeing dolphins frolicking in the sea, with their faces popping out of the water, not on TV, but in reality? In Croatia, small yet surrounded by vast seas, observe the behavior of dolphins and analyze the sounds they make scientifically. Additionally, study the flow of the sea to identify dangerous areas for dolphins while they feed and move, and conduct scientific and systematic research to protect these dolphins.
Participants will engage in the project, learning how to collect data, use programs, and analyze and interpret the results. If you are interested in marine-related fields, marine biology, or ecology, don't miss this opportunity!
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
■ Project and Activities
- This project is conducted in English. As participants will be working as interns, a level of English proficiency sufficient for communicating with project staff and other interns is required.
- The project is available for participation from February to May / June to September / October to November each year.
- Activity schedules are subject to change based on sea conditions, weather, and research priorities.
- On the first day of the project, participants arriving at the base camp will undergo mandatory orientation and introduction to the institution before using the boat.
■ Example Activities
1. Observing Dolphin Behavior
When the sea is calm and the weather is good, you will take a boat to observe dolphin behavior. On clear days, you can see dolphins up close, including their jumping behavior and the direction of their movement. Observation and research activities usually start at 6 AM and are conducted on the boat. Due to changing weather and conditions, dolphin observation can be highly variable, so participants should approach with patience and an open mind!
2. Dolphin Photography
When dolphins appear, you will take photos to identify the species, recording the time, number of dolphins, and their behavior along with their names.
3. Office Work at the Base
On days when sea conditions are unfavorable, you cannot go out on the boat. Instead, you will stay at the center and prepare reports, organize and analyze data, and study dolphin behavior patterns. Office work generally occurs from 9 AM to 4 PM.
4. Assisting Visitors and Public Awareness Promotion at the Research Center
When marine environmental education lectures are held at the Marine Education Center, you will assist tourists and students and provide necessary materials. You can learn more about marine environments and animals through explanations from the research center manager and various educational materials.
■ Other Information
- Outside of scheduled activities, you can explore nearby islands or enjoy free time.
- This project has limited spots for each period and tends to fill up quickly each year, so it is recommended to apply at least 6 months in advance.
- A Skype interview will be conducted in English for project participation.
SUPPORT
 Local Orientation |
 Online Orientation |
 Online Consultation |
 Local Institution Completion Certificate |
 KGY Certification |
 Pre-Departure Care |
 KGY Consultation |
 KGY Mission |
 24hr Emergency Care |
 Flight Ticket Booking Assistance |
 Real-Time Consultation Service |
 KGY Note Book |
 Project and Participation Costs |
 KGY Mission Scholarship |
 OT Documents |
 Local Accommodation |
 Management/Supervision During the Project Period |
 Fuel Required for Field Trips |
 Internet Access at Accommodation |
 Researcher Lectures During the Project Period |
 Equipment Use During the Project Period |
Not Included
- Round-trip airfare
- Individual travel insurance
- Personal expenses and meals/drinks
- Transportation costs from the airport to the project location (round-trip)
* Please make reservations for airfare and transportation after confirming your participation and departure schedule for the project.
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
The organization running this project was established in 1999 and is a non-profit institution dedicated to marine research, education, and conservation. Through these three project activities, it aims to protect marine research and various endangered sea animals. For this purpose, they have long recorded and studied the behavior and habits of marine animals. They are particularly focused on dolphin conservation projects, conducting research on dolphin populations, ecology, genetics, and their habitats.
Since its establishment, the organization has been recognized for its successful projects, especially in the conservation and scientific research of endangered dolphin species. Additionally, they have established an education center within the facility to actively promote public awareness about dolphin protection.
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
Participants will stay at the designated accommodation located in Veli Losinj. The accommodation, shared with research staff and interns, includes two bathrooms, a terrace, and a kitchen. Each room is equipped with air conditioning and a temperature control system, allowing adjustments according to the weather. (Smoking is not allowed in the accommodation.) Additionally, there are bars, restaurants, and performance venues near the research center, where you can enjoy exciting times with friends after activities.
Meals will be prepared individually by purchasing ingredients and cooking in the shared kitchen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are stores nearby where you can buy ingredients. If you are not familiar with cooking, it is recommended to prepare recipes in advance! Since participants will share living spaces, you will also be involved in basic household chores such as shopping, cooking, washing dishes, and garden maintenance.
* Maximum occupancy of the accommodation: 10 people
| 2~3 people per room / Shared bathroom / Shared kitchen and utensils provided / Meals not provided / WIFI available / Bedding provided / Washing machine available |
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location : Croatia, Losinj
Although Croatia is just starting to be recognized as a gem of a travel destination in our country, it is a popular vacation spot in Europe, especially during peak season. Whether you want a quiet retreat in Zagreb, indulge in the scent of lush forests in Split, or embark on a road trip along the Adriatic coast in Dubrovnik, Croatia offers diverse attractions that highlight each region's unique character. Additionally, Croatia is home to many islands, and the island where the volunteer activity takes place is not only picturesque but also has healing powers that rejuvenate travelers. Spend your gap year in this perfect vacation spot, enjoying the tranquility of a quaint waterfront restaurant!
■ Croatia, Losinj Island
This project takes place on Losinj Island, Croatia. Veli Losinj is an old town located 3 kilometers from Mali Losinj, the largest island in Croatia. Participants will stay at accommodations located in Veli Losinj.
■ Travel Information
1. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, a city in Croatia, is a vacation spot frequented by global billionaires like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, and is a dream destination for Europeans. The city is known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic" due to its picturesque red-roofed buildings set against the blue sea. The striking contrast between the blue sea and red roofs creates an indescribable beauty. Moreover, you can experience something unique by walking along the city walls that protect Dubrovnik. From the walls, you can see why this place is called the "Pearl." Discover the reason for yourself!
2. Zagreb
Zagreb, one of Croatia's major cities, feels like a fusion of three cities. It combines tranquility with the vibrancy of a large European city and a modern atmosphere, despite its small size. The charm of Zagreb lies in its walkability. The St. Mark's Church is especially unique, with its mosaic-style tiled roof that forms a distinctive picture, unlike the usual red roofs of other buildings. As you stroll through the streets, you may encounter people dressed in traditional Croatian costumes, like Alpine girls, selling small souvenirs. Even if you don't buy anything, it's worth taking a memorable photo with these uniquely dressed individuals!
Eligibility
- Open to adults aged 18 and over
- Anyone who can communicate in basic English
- Those who have a background or basic knowledge in marine science, ecology, or biology
- Anyone interested in dolphin conservation or marine animal preservation
- Those who want to observe dolphins swimming in Croatia's blue waters
■ Tips from the Planner!
This project involves not only office work but also activities on a boat in the sea. Therefore, you need to be able to endure long periods of hot or cold weather. Basic physical fitness is required, so take this opportunity to evaluate your condition!
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ The minimum participation period for this project is at least 1 month .
■ Participation Costs
| 2023 | Participation from 2/1 to 5/31 | Participation from 6/1 to 9/30 | Participation from 10/1 to 11/30 |
| 1 month (30 days) | 2,040,000 won | 2,390,000 won | 2,040,000 won |
| 2 months (60 days) | 3,430,000 won | 4,120,000 won | 3,430,000 won |
| 3 months (90 days) | 4,810,000 won | 5,860,000 won | 4,810,000 won |
* For popular projects, there might be no available spots Please apply quickly to secure your spot.
■ Gap Year Mission Scholarship (▶ More Details)
■ Installment Payment Information
If you are unable to pay the full amount, please pay a deposit of 500,000 won and settle the remaining balance within 2 weeks. The process for confirming your participation will begin based on the date the deposit is made, and we will check availability and spots. It is important to secure your spot as soon as possible for your preferred dates and duration! (Refunds are not available once participation is confirmed)
* However, if the start date is approaching, the schedule for settling the remaining balance may change depending on the situation.
■ Early Bird Discount and Emergency Application Information
We recommend applying for all Gap Year projects at least 3 months before the start date to allow for normal processing and preparation time. Applications should be submitted no later than 2 months before the start date. However, if you have urgent circumstances or need to participate quickly, you can use the emergency application service to expedite the process by paying an additional fee.
* While we will assist with expediting the process as much as possible, please be aware that communication with local agencies and the time required for confirmation will still be necessary. Those using the emergency application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year Operations Team.
** Applying more than 180 days before the start date will qualify you for the Early Bird Discount.
*** Emergency applications can be selected from the options above. For inquiries about the emergency application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.
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- What’s Included: Automatic application for Gap Year Missions and Notes / Complete OT materials provided immediately upon confirmation / Additional staffing if needed / Support for necessary documents, etc.
* If you have difficulty calculating dates, please use the Naver Date Calculator >> Naver Date Calculator
**Note: For extremely urgent applications, there may be no available spots due to local circumstances, and procedures will follow the Gap Year refund policy. Any issues arising from the participant's lack of cooperation will be the participant's responsibility.
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