Become a Seasearch volunteer

• Do you dive, snorkel or rockpool in Britain and Ireland?
• Are you looking to get involved in marine citizen science?
• Do you want to help protect the best of British and Irish marine life?
• Do you wish you knew more about what you are seeing underwater?

If this sounds like you, then dive in and take part in Seasearch

Getting started...

Why should I become a Seasearch volunteer?

Seasearch is fun – and it's important. It is a great way to meet like-minded people who are interested in marine wildlife and exploring the ocean around the UK. Many of our volunteers are keen underwater photographers and the surveys are a fantastic way to improve your knowledge of marine species.

Data gathered by our volunteers has already made a big difference to how much we know about our coastal habitats and marine species. The more information we have, the better able we are to identify specific sites of conservation concern.

"I have been diving for 21 years and this is going to transform my diving." Seasearch volunteer 

Read how one volunteer in Cornwall got involved as a snorkeller and how your data is used in our Blog section.

How does Seasearch work?

Seasearch is a national project set up by the Marine Conservation Society, but is co-ordinated by local co-ordinators, wildlife trusts and organisations around Britain and Ireland. Volunteers help us gather information about the health of our ocean by filling in our survey forms after they dive, snorkel or even take a walk on the beach.

As a scuba diver, if you're qualified, you can take part on recreational dives with your buddy, club dives or on Seasearch organised dives and expeditions. Any dive can be a Seasearch dive!

And as a snorkeller or free diver, you can fill out a form any time you are out and about in the water at the coast.

If you prefer to stay dry, you can even conduct a Seasearch survey when walking along the shoreline or exploring rockpools.

How to get involved in  Seasearch

A good place to start is by contacting the Seasearch coordinator for your area. A list can be found on the About page. Drop them a line to find out what’s involved and what training you will need – we’re a friendly bunch and always looking for new volunteers.

Once you are qualified, you can either collect records independently or you can buddy up with other volunteers. Seasearch trips are organised by local coordinators and partners and are are listed on the Organised Surveys page.

What training do I need?

You don't have to be a marine expert because we'll teach you everything you need to know. You just need to be interested in the marine environment and keen to learn more.

If you're new to the project and new to marine recording, you'll need to take our Seasearch Observer course. After this, you'll be able to complete the Seasearch Observation Form and take part in Seasearch surveys, either on your own, with your club or on trips organised by Seasearch partners.

We also run a series of training courses and special interest workshops for more experienced volunteers.

Do I need to be a qualified diver?

No! You don't need to have any diving qualifications to become a Seasearch volunteer or take part in any training.

Seasesarch surveys aren't just conducted while scuba diving - you can snorkel, freedive, rockpool or shore walk.

However, to take part in organised trips that involve diving, snorkelling or freediving, you will be asked to provide proof of relevant qualifications and experience.

Seasearch is not a diving, snorkelling or freediving training organisation. Our courses focus on marine habitat and species ID and the skills needed to complete Seasearch recorder forms. 

What sort of surveys will I be doing?

After completing a survey session, volunteers record what they saw on one of our Seasearch forms.

Observation Forms are the simplest and can be completed any time after being out in the water. You'll be asked for information about the habitat and seabed cover types you saw, as well as the main marine species. It takes about 15-30 minutes to complete.

Survey Forms involve a more detailed level of recording and require higher-level Surveyor training.

We also have three specific surveys about sea fans, crawfish and sea caves. Find out more on our Record section.

Other questions...?

Q. Do I need to have insurance?

A. If you're interested in joining an organised Seasearch trip, you will find specific information detailing the required documents (like insurance and qualifications) in the trip description. These vary depending on the activities involved.

Q. Do I need to be part of a club to take part?

A. No - as long as you've completed our Seasearch Observer course you can fill in the forms independently.

Q. How much does training cost?

A. Courses cost around £80-£100.  The cost of an Observer Course includes a copy of The Diver's Guide to Marine Life of Britain and Ireland which is also available to buy from our online shop.  (Discounts on course might be offered with a big enough group through your local dive club or organisation. Please email to discuss.) 

Q. How much does it cost to take part in a Seasearch survey?

A. Taking part in the survey is free!

If you're planning to explore underwater or around the shoreline, it's a perfect opportunity to include a Seasearch survey.

Q. Does Seasearch run diver training courses?

A. No - Seasearch is not a diver training organisation and we don't offer dive training or kit hire.  

Q. Can I do Seasearch surveys if I'm not a qualified diver - e.g. by snorkelling in shallow water?

A. Yes, you can do snorkel surveys provided you have completed the Seasearch training.

Q. Is the Observer training course a minimum requirement for all volunteers? Are there any exceptions, e.g. if I'm a marine biologist?

A. Yes, all volunteers must have completed the Observer course as a minimum requirement so volunteers understand our standard marine recording methodology.