Whale Research Expedition - Gulf of Guinea
📍São Tomé & Príncipe Get involved in protecting whales & marine wildlife in the South Atlantic
Dive into a hands-on expedition that combines marine life conservation with a unique sailing experience in breathtaking island landscapes! Experience a true adventure: hands-on conservation work, sleeping under the stars on a boat, seeing whales up-close and teamwork in one of the world’s most fascinating landscapes.
10 days from €1499
Get free advice now!What to expect
What your day will look like
No day is like the other; this expedition offers a dynamic & immersive research experience in a beautiful environment.
- Marine Surveys: Multiple daily cetacean observations using binoculars and acoustic gear.
- Data Collection: Catalog sightings, process images, and record acoustics and environmental samples.
- Field Operations: Assist with drones, deploy hydrophones, and collect blow samples and plankton.
- Shore Visits: Engage with local communities in São Tomé & Príncipe for ecological and cultural exchange.
This is a rigorous but rewarding journey, suitable for individuals passionate about marine science, biodiversity, and conservation. No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn, collaborate, and contribute to meaningful environmental work.
Itinerary
On your first day, you will be picked up from the main airport in São Tomé. After you've settled in, we will do an introduction to the project & life on board. The next day, we will be sailing to Principe, where the main research will take place & where we will be spending the next days, on the sailing vessel & on the different islands. The exact route will depend on the weather, the conditions & whale sightings.
The last day, we'll be heading back to São Tomé, where our journey ends.
Impact
You will be directly contributing to the protection of the Cetaceans in the South Atlantic. With the data we gather, we will evaluate the population development & the health of the marine ecosystem. You will furthermore contribute to:
- Knowledge Gaps: First detailed data on cetaceans in São Tomé & Príncipe, guiding future research.
- Conservation: Identifies critical habitats to inform marine protected areas.
- Capacity Building: Trains local scientists and NGOs for lasting stewardship.
- Policy Support: Provides data for sustainable fisheries and conservation policies.
- Collaboration: Shares findings with global cetacean networks for wider impact.
Register now
All expeditions include the following services: - Accommodation on the boat in a shared cabin - All activities - Transfers on the boat & to the airport - Full board
Get free advice now!FAQ
Who can participate?
No previous experience is required to help the researchers with the recordings. Your tasks consist of data collection and sailing activities. Any help is welcome and there is a suitable task for every age and gender. You should have a basic level of physical fitness and be able to work in high temperatures and in the open air. All participants receive comprehensive training in cetacean observation techniques, data collection protocols, and vessel safety procedures. A willingness to learn and collaborate is sufficient. There can be up to 5 people joining this expedition at the same time.
How fit do I need to be?
Participants should be in good general health, comfortable working on a sailing vessel, and able to stand for extended periods during surveys. Basic swimming ability is recommended for onshore activities. The gentle to rough waves of the Gulf of Guinea not only test the endurance of the ship, but also the well-being of the crew. Seasickness, known as the unpleasant feeling of dizziness caused by the constant motion of the sea, can affect even the most experienced sailor. If you are prone to it, please be prepared and take appropriate medication.
When does it start & how do I get there?
The trip is 10 Days & runs from the End of August until the End of October 2025. You can arrive at any time & will be picked up from the airport in São Tomé. There are direct flights from Lisbon to São Tomé. These are not included in the price. We are happy to help you with the booking process. For German citizens, you don't need any visa for up to 15 Days.
What is included in the participation fee?
The fee covers onboard accommodation in a shared room, all meals aboard the sailing vessel, scientific training, equipment use (binoculars, hydrophones, drones), workshop materials, and shore excursions for ecological and cultural exchange. The flights to São Tomé are not included in the participation fee. Your fee directly contributes to the research of the Marine Life Protection Organization.
Register now
All expeditions include the following services: - Accommodation on the boat in a shared cabin - All activities - Transfers on the boat & to the airport - Full board
Get advice now!
About socialbnb
socialbnb offers accommodations and experiences worldwide with social and ecological impact. By visiting social and ecological projects, you learn more about their work and directly support them through your stay. Since 2021, socialbnb has offered a wide variety of stays and experiences at social and ecological projects in over 45 countries and has been recognized by several international organizations, including the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Learn more
