Between 2023 and 2025, the ocean crossed a threshold. The 4th Global Coral Bleaching Event — the largest in recorded history — affected 84% of the world’s reef systems. Entire reef complexes that took centuries to form turned white in a matter of weeks.
Indonesia’s Coral Triangle did not escape entirely. But it held. Raja Ampat, Nusa Penida, and the reefs of Bali’s east coast remained some of the most resilient marine environments on the planet while competitors elsewhere degraded beyond recovery. The question now is what happens next — and whether the people who care about these reefs are going to do something about it.
That’s what these expeditions are for.
What the Bali Coral Conservation Expedition Actually Is
This is not an eco-label. Ocean Earth Travels has been running coral conservation expeditions in Bali in partnership with Ocean Gardener, a globally recognised coral restoration organisation.
The expedition runs for 12 days and combines:
- Shore dives and a day trip to the USAT Liberty wreck at Tulamben — one of Asia’s most productive artificial reef systems
- A full day trip to Nusa Penida — manta rays, large healthy coral systems, and dramatic walls
- 3 days of hands-on coral farming with Ocean Gardener — nursery dives, building reef structures, afternoon conservation workshops
- The Blue School community programme in Amed — connecting with youth-led local sustainability initiatives
- Balinese cultural immersion — temples, rice fields, artisan markets, Uluwatu at sunset
- A closing celebration on the beach with the group
Participants leave with the Ocean Gardener certification — a formal credential in coral reef restoration recognised by the global marine conservation community.
Maximum group size: 12 people. It stays small deliberately.
2026 Expedition Dates
Three expeditions are running in 2026. Each has a maximum of 12 spots.
- May 11–22, 2026
- October 26 – November 6, 2026
- November 9–20, 2026
Price: USD 1,720 per person (double occupancy, includes accommodation, most meals, all dives and tours listed above)
Prerequisite: Advanced Open Water certification. It’s possible to complete this during the trip if needed — contact us to discuss.
> Fill in the form here if you have questions and to secure your spot
Why Bali, Why Now
The bleaching event hit hardest where water temperatures were highest and where local stressors — pollution, overfishing, physical damage — had already weakened reef immunity. In many places, bleached reefs will not recover. The coral is dead.
In Bali, the picture is different. The volcanic substrate of the east coast, the upwelling patterns around Nusa Penida, and years of localised protection work mean that significant reef coverage remains intact. Calypso’s coral nurseries in Amed are actively producing coral fragments that are being transplanted back to damaged areas. The work is measurable and real.
Joining an expedition here is not symbolic. You are spending three days doing the work — in the water, with the coral, with the teams who do this year-round.
Who This Is For
The expedition is designed for divers who have done the dives and want more from a trip. Advanced Open Water certification is the minimum technical requirement — the diving itself is accessible and not demanding.
Past participants have included solo travellers, couples, and small friend groups from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, and Australia. French-speaking participants: we run a dedicated French-language edition of this expedition. Details below.
If you want 12 days in Bali that you’ll actually remember for more than the dive log, this is it.
French-Language Edition
🇫🇷 Plongée & Restauration Corail Bali — 27 Avril au 9 Mai 2026
10 spots available — USD 1,720 per person – Full expedition conducted in French with French-speaking guides.
> Fill in the form here if you have questions and to secure your spot
What’s Included
- Return airport transfers in Bali
- All accommodation (shared twin or double room)
- Welcome dinner and closing celebration dinner
- Daily breakfasts and lunches as per itinerary
- Check dive and 3 fun dives in Amed
- 3-day coral farming course and Ocean Gardener certification
- Full-day Nusa Penida dive trip — 3 dives
- Full-day Karangasem cultural tour
- Full-day Central and East Bali tour
- Ubud visit
- Uluwatu and South Bali day tour
- Professional guide services throughout
What’s not included: international flights, dive gear rental, personal expenses, travel insurance.
Book Your Spot
The May expedition is 8 weeks away. If you’re considering it, the time to move is now — 12 spots fill without much notice once the word goes out. Fill in the form on the expedition page here or contact us to secure your spot.
