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 NEWS14/10/2026
The examinations behind every diagnosis: A vital step in sea turtle rehabilitation
This is where diagnostic examinations play a crucial role. X-rays are an invaluable tool for our rehabilitation team, both upon admission and throughout the recovery process, helping us determine the appropriate treatment and monitor each turtle’s progress.
- OUR NEWS09/10/2026
“Guardians of our ancient sea”: The 8th Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles takes place in Greece
The conference is expected to host 240 delegates from 20 Mediterranean countries, including leading researchers and scientists, as well as representatives from protected area management bodies and environmental organizations.
- OUR NEWS06/10/2026
A Wildlife Weekend at the Museum
On the weekend of October 3rd and 4th, ARCHELON participated in the "Wild Weekend", a two-day celebration dedicated to wildlife at the Goulandris Natural History Museum.
- OUR NEWS01/10/2026
October for sea turtles: Help us care for our sea turtle patients this winter
This October, we are launching a fundraising campaign with one clear goal: to raise €5,000 to support the care of our sea turtle patients through the end of 2026.
- OUR NEWS25/09/2026
Together for Crete’s nesting beaches: "Turtle-Friendly Hotel" award ceremonies in Chania and Rethymno
ARCHELON hosted the award ceremonies for the new Turtle-Friendly Hotel certification, as part of the TUI Turtle Aid Greece program in Crete.
- OUR NEWS23/09/2026
We bade farewell to Omiros, the blind sea turtle that traveled from Greece to Cornwall
In September 2026 Omiros, a male Loggerhead sea turtle with a remarkable story, passed away. He had spent the last 16 years of his life at the Blue Reef Aquarium in Cornwall, having traveled there from Greece.
- OUR NEWS10/09/2026
Sea turtles kept in a restaurant tank in Chania: True love for nature begins with respect.
We all feel a sense of excitement when we encounter a wild animal up close. It is only natural to want to connect with nature, observe it and understand it better.
- OUR NEWS09/09/2026
Schools are back at ARCHELON! A new year full of learning and action
The new school year is beginning, and with it, the voices, questions, and excitement of thousands of students return to ARCHELON’s Sea Turtle Rescue Centre.
- OUR NEWS06/09/2026
Sea Turtle Hatchlings Captivated All Ages in Corfu
- OUR NEWS01/09/2026
Taking time off work to volunteer for the sea turtles in Greece: Amy’s month with ARCHELON in southern Peloponnese
When Amy Carey was 10 years old, she came face to face with a sea turtle while on holiday in Greece. Decades later, at 47, she decided it was time to turn that childhood memory into reality.
- OUR NEWS13/08/2026
Hatchlings need help in September and October: Special volunteer offer for 2 weeks!
In order to protect the nests and the last hatchlings of this year, we need the help of more volunteers!
- OUR NEWS10/08/2026
One beach party canceled, 66 nests saved in Chania!
A significant victory for the protection of sea turtles in Chania, thanks to the direct cooperation of ARCHELON and NECCA.
- OUR NEWS07/08/2026
Sea turtles of the Saronic Gulf: Why feeding them is not an act of love
The Municipality of Saronikos and ARCHELON are campaigning for the safe and proper coexistence of bathers and wildlife.
- OUR NEWS05/08/2026
Greek fishermen release rare Leatherback Turtle in the North Aegean!
In mid-July, we received a video of an impressive sea turtle that had been caught in the nets of a fishing boat.
- OUR NEWS30/07/2026
Join our Sea Turtle Nest Excavations in Peloponnese and Crete
ARCHELON invites you to a unique experience of environmental education and scientific observation!


