Volunteering Projects 2026: Sea Turtles Need You, the Planet Needs Us!
Are you ready for a unique experience that will change the way you see nature... and perhaps yourself? ARCHELON proudly announces its 2026 Environmental Volunteering Projects for sea turtle conservation! If you care about the environment and are looking for a way to get involved in nature conservation in the field, we invite you to join our collective effort.

2026: The International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development
Volunteering is in ARCHELON's DNA. For over four decades, our volunteers have been the driving force behind our mission: protecting sea turtles and their habitats across Greece. In 2026, we join the global community in celebrating the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. By participating, you directly contribute to crucial UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: Life Below Water (SDG 14), Climate Action (SDG 13), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Quality Education (SDG 4), Life on Land (SDG 15), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). ARCHELON volunteers prove daily how local action (protecting a nest, informing a visitor) can have a global impact. In 2026, we reinforce our commitment to growing this network of people who ensure that both nature and society can coexist and thrive.

What You Will Gain by Joining Our Mission
Come and be a part of it! This experience will be invaluable for you because you will:
- Protect Sea Turtles You will work directly for their survival! You will monitor nests, help with protective measures, and ensure that the tiny hatchlings reach the sea safely.
- Gain Scientific Experience and New Skills: From collecting scientific data and communicating with the public, to environmental education, ARCHELON's programs are a true school of life and conservation.
- Promote Sustainability: You will inform visitors about the threats sea turtles face and transmit a genuine sense of stewardship for our planet.
- Meet People from All Over the World: You will network with people globally and forge strong bonds through a shared, meaningful experience.
You Can Do It! ARCHELON welcomes volunteers from all over the world and of all ages (over 18) and no prior experience is required! If you speak English, are at least 18 years old, and are in good physical condition, you can do this! We will provide you with full training, and you will contribute your personal knowledge, enthusiasm, and skills. Get ready to be the person that sea turtles and the oceans need!
Choose Your Adventure

We are looking for enthusiastic people to join us in some of the most beautiful and important coastal areas of Greece. Find the mission that suits you!
- Laganas Bay, Zakynthos (May 5 – October 15): Take part in the longest-running sea turtle project in the Mediterranean!
- Kyparissia Bay, Peloponnese (May 5 – September 30): Experience the ultimate challenge for turtle conservation, protecting many nests!
- Lakonikos Bay, Peloponnese (May 25 – September 25): Spread the message of nature conservation to the local community!
- Koroni, Peloponnese (June 1 – September 15): Protect turtles and nature in a small coastal community!
- Rethymno, Crete (May 5 – October 15): Protect hatchling and promote sustainable tourism in Crete!
- Chania, Crete (May 5 – October 15, 2025): Make a difference where nature meets tourism!
- Messara Bay, Crete (May 25 – September 25): Meet the wilderness of southern Crete while saving turtles!
- Amvrakikos Gulf (July 1 – August 31): Take part in a unique turtle project in a wetland of international importance!
- Sea Turtle Rescue Center, Glyfada (all year round): Become a team member of the largest sea turtle hospital in the Mediterranean!

Sea Turtles Need You! The Planet Needs Us!
Download the Brochure with all the 2026 Projects and choose the experience that suits you!Are you ready to make a difference? Apply now
A Second Chance: Two Loggerhead Sea Turtles Return to the Sea Thanks to Dedicated Rescues
Outstanding Recognition for ARCHELON at the Effective Dialogue Conference 2025
RECENT NEWS
- OUR NEWS25/05/2026
Greek beaches stand out with 624 "Blue Flags"
On May 14th we met at Paleo Faliro for the official announcement of the 2026 awards of the International Blue Flag Program, organized by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature.
- OUR NEWS18/05/2026
The nesting season has started in Greece: The first sea turtle nests for 2026 are spotted!
The first nests of the loggerhead sea turtle for 2026 have been found in Kyparissia Bay and in Zakynthos.
- OUR NEWS07/05/2026
ARCHELON’s Sea Turtle Tours presented in a Japanese Seminar for Sustainable Tourism
ur Sea Turtle Tours recently featured as a highlight in the Sustainable Tourism International Talk Sessions, organized by the Japan Alliance of Responsible Travel Agencies.
- OUR NEWS04/05/2026
Kids Turtle Festival 2026 "In Deep Water"
The ARCHELON Sea Turtle Rescue Centre opens its doors on World Turtle Day, June 13, and invites young and old to this year’s Kids Turtle Festival 2026 “In Deep Water”.
- OUR NEWS30/04/2026
Sea Turtle Beach Walk in Crete: A unique eco-tourism experience
The Sea Turtle Beach Walk is an organized activity that allows participants to get to know the natural environment of the sea turtle nesting site up close. Book your place now!
- OUR NEWS18/04/2026
How a sea turtle illuminated the unknown paths of the Aegean
Helen Jane was not just another dead sea turtle found on the Greek coastline. For ARCHELON researchers, she was a living beacon of information
- OUR NEWS17/04/2026
Is it Really 1 in 1,000? New Science Challenges the Iconic Sea Turtle Statistic
For decades, one quote has defined the struggle of sea turtle conservation: 1 in 1,000. This statistical information suggests that for every thousand hatchlings that enter the sea, only one will survive the long journey to adulthood.
- OUR NEWS10/04/2026
ARCHELON takes part in Chania's “Move It Now” initiative
Through educational activities, games and discussions, students had the opportunity to understand that every "green" choice in our daily lives is a direct help to the environment.
- OUR NEWS09/04/2026
Coming together for sustainable tourism in Chania
Looking towards the upcoming nesting season, the tourism community of Chania gathered at the city’s Town Hall.
- OUR NEWS08/04/2026
The Return of the “Giant”: Everest Swims Again in Greek Seas After Two Years of Rehabilitation
The story of 'Everest' began in May 2024 in Preveza, when the sea turtle was found with a severe, intentional head injury. Upon arrival at the Rescue Centre, its condition was critical: malnourished, weighing just 81 kg, and suffering from serious buoyancy problems that made survival in the sea impossible.
- OUR NEWS07/04/2026
Through the dust: Rethymno looks for a sustainable future with the sea turtles
Neither the African dust nor the sandstorm of last Wednesday stood in the way of ARCHELON's event at the Rethymno City Hall!
- OUR NEWS02/04/2026
Volunteering Has Never Been More Attractive: Special offers for 2026
ARCHELON invites you to join its field projects and actively protect sea turtles and their habitats.
- OUR NEWS09/03/2026
The Annual General Assembly of the Association
ARCHELON's Members were invited to attend the Annual General Assembly on Saturday, February 28 at the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre.
- OUR NEWS03/03/2026
Join us for the Online Presentation of 2025 Results!
On Monday, March 23rd, we have the chance to meet again online and share what we accomplished together in the past year.
- OUR NEWS03/03/2026
A Digital Adventure for Your Class with ARCHELON
Through a live connection with the Centre, students learn about the turtles’ rescue stories and discover how everyday human activities can negatively impact marine ecosystems.


