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The FINstitute International is a global shark conservation organization advancing science, education, and collaboration. We empower the next generation of ocean leaders by connecting people to real research, real experiences, and real impact.

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EXPEDITION 4

Sold out!

MO’OREA, French Polynesia- Baby Black Tip Reef Shark Research Trip

Must be a FINstitute member to access the booking page for this trip

(MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES > EXPEDITIONS > TICKETS)

Make sure to sign up before tickets go on sale to make sure you don’t miss out!

    • Accommodation (7 nights) - single/double beds

    • Science workshops & hands-on training with experts

    • Collaboration with local scientists and operators

    • Rental car and group driver

    • Professional photo package

    • Extra charges: Diving, boat rentals, kayaking or paddle boarding

    • Photo ID & social network studies of black tip reef sharks

    • Research and sampling methods used to study black tip reef sharks

    • Classes on shark ecology & research methods with guest talks from some other epic organizations

  • $1650 USD

  • No — this trip is designed as a field research experience. If you would like to organise scuba diving in your free time, you are welcome to do so but we will not be offering it.

  • No! Absolutely all are welcome (18+ or with a parent or guardian). Shark science is for everyone and this experience will be very hands on. It is a great opportunity if you are a student interested in pursuing shark science or if you are just someone is who is curious about what field research looks like:)

Trip Snapshot

Dates: 12–19 October 2026

  • Location: Moorea, French Polynesia

  • Focus: Juvenile black tip reef shark sampling + conservation methods

  • Who Can Join: FINstitute members, 18+

  • Cost: $1650 USD

Join The FINstitute for an 9-day Black Tip Reef Shark Research Expedition on the beautiful island of Mo’orea, French Polynesia…

You will be contributing directly to ongoing research done through the Physioshark project. Here is a bit about the project from the Physioshark website:

The Physioshark project, led by Dr. Jodie Rummer from James Cook University in Australia, investigates how climate change impacts the physiology of newborn and juvenile reef sharks. Sharks that are born today represent adult shark populations of the future. Understanding how human and environmental impacts affect these sharks is crucial knowledge for developing effective shark conservation strategies.

The fieldwork is based at the CRIOBE Research Center on Mo’orea, French Polynesia. The project investigates the physiological energetics (i.e., costs/benefits) of newborn blacktip reef and sicklefin lemon sharks living in the 11 potential nursery areas identified around the island. For instance, the research team is investigating how well newborn sharks cope with hot water temperatures in these nurseries and how the cost of growing up in these nurseries will change with increased human disturbances like coastal development and climate change.

While French Polynesia is a protected shark sanctuary, there is a need to address the sharks' physiological tolerance to the environmental conditions of their nurseries that will likely become more severe as climate change progresses. Decreases in physiological performance may translate to decreases in fitness.

EXPEDITION 2

4 spots remaining

CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA— But make it Shysharks!

Must be a FINstitute member to access the booking page for this trip

(MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES > EXPEDITIONS > TICKETS)

LEARN MORE

Endemic Shyshark Experience

Cape Town, South Africa | 10 Days | Shark Science, Conservation & Diving

Join The FINstitute for an immersive field expedition in Cape Town focused on shark science, conservation, and hands-on research in one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on Earth.

This is not a dive holiday.
This is a working expedition…ok…and also a holiday!

You’ll live, dive, learn, and contribute alongside marine scientists while exploring South Africa’s extraordinary endemic shyshark diversity — including species found nowhere else in the world.

Why South Africa?

South Africa is a global hotspot for shark diversity but let’s be honest…the first shark we think of when we hear “South Africa” is teh great white shark….While these sharks are AMAZING, this is only half the story!!! Among the most fascinating residents of South Africa, are the shysharks! Which are a type of catshark which is the largest shark family on the planet!!

With over 100 species worldwide — and multiple species endemic to South Africa — these small, patterned sharks play an important ecological role in temperate reef and kelp forest ecosystems.

During this expedition, you’ll work within the Great African Seaforest and surrounding coastal habitats, contributing to real conservation initiatives while building practical field skills in shark research.

What Makes This Experience Different?

Real Shark Science

Participants contribute to active research projects including:

  • Photo ID and population monitoring

  • Fin spotting and species identification

  • Shyshark egg case collection and analysis

  • Data entry for reproductive success projects

  • Marine species identification workshops

You won’t just observe research — you’ll be part of it.

Learn From Experts

The program includes dynamic workshops, guest speakers, and lectures led by experienced marine scientists and conservation professionals. Topics range from shark behavior and physiology to ecology, climate impacts, and biodiversity in South African waters.

Dive With Purpose

Multiple boat-based SCUBA dives are built into the experience, focused on scientific data collection and ecosystem observation.

This program is designed for certified divers who want to deepen their understanding of marine research while sharpening field skills.

Explore Cape Town

Beyond the water, you’ll experience the best of the region — from the iconic Table Mountain and Cape Point Nature Reserve to African penguins at Boulders Beach and the vibrant cultural history of Cape Town

  • Participants are based in Glencairn, Cape Town, in shared dormitory-style accommodation.

    Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided throughout the program. The accommodation is centrally located to research sites and scheduled activities, with transport provided for all official programming.

    • 9 nights shared accommodation

    • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

    • SCUBA dives as part of the research itinerary

    • Dive equipment

    • Transport for scheduled activities

    • Workshops, lectures, and guest speakers

    • Cape Town exploration days

    • Cape Point Nature Reserve visits

    • Exclusive expedition merchandise

    • International flights and visa (if required)

    • Travel and dive insurance (mandatory)

    • Airport transfers

    • Optional activities outside the program

    • Additional meals/snacks outside scheduled catering

    • Extra dives or specialty gear rentals (e.g., cameras, torches, dive computers)

  • This expedition is designed for motivated, open-minded participants who are ready to contribute meaningfully.

    You must:

    • Be 17 years or older

    • Hold an Open Water SCUBA certification (or higher)

    • Be comfortable swimming, walking daily distances, and working on small boats

    • Commit to the full program duration

    • Have travel and dive insurance

    • Be willing to participate in research activities and team responsibilities

    This is a collaborative, team-based experience. Flexibility and a strong work ethic are essential.

  • We work closely with local scientists and communities. Participants are expected to:

    • Respect the local culture and environment

    • Follow the buddy system

    • Represent Cape RADD and The FINstitute professionally

    • Prioritise personal health and safety

    • Comply with all local laws and regulations

    Cape Town is an incredible city, but like any major destination, situational awareness and responsible travel practices are important.

  • Participants have the option to extend their stay and complete an additional course with Cape RADD at a discounted rate. Details are shared upon confirmation.

  • This expedition is ideal for:

    • Marine biology students

    • Early-career conservationists

    • Divers wanting field research experience

    • Shark and ray enthusiasts from ALL wakes of life!

    • Anyone considering a career in marine science

    If you want to build real skills, expand your global network, and contribute to shark conservation in a meaningful way — this is for you.

  • $2500 USD total for the trip.

    $500 USD deposit to secure your spot and the rest can be paid later :)

EXPEDITION 1

SOLD OUT

We have a few more we are planning for 2026 (and also 2027) all over the world so if you missed this one, stay tuned for the next!!!

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Support our mission by contributing today.

The FINstitute is a Canadian charity dedicated to shark and ray conservation through education, hands-on research experiences, student opportunities, and collaboration with local conservation organizations. Donations help us make marine science more accessible, support early-career researchers, and build a stronger global community committed to protecting sharks, rays, and the oceans they depend on.

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