MARINE VETS 2 WEEK COURSE
MAR!NE VETERINARY SCIENCES COURSES. 2 WEEK COURSE DATE OPTIONS FOR 2026
MV1: 20 June to 2 July 2026
MV2: 11 July to 23 July 2026
MV3: 1 Aug to 13 Aug 2026
MV4: 22 Aug to 3 Sept 2026
COURSE COST: $3 590 – US Dollar / €3 150 – Euro
Please note: We use the US Dollar as our base currency, so the EUR price may change at any time due to exchange rate fluctuations.
Eight spaces are available per group (to give you the best experience possible!) We work on a first-come, first-served basis! Complete the application form to register your interest in the Live4Now Marine Veterinary Sciences Course.
The MAR!NE VETS Programme is designed for veterinary students, professionals, and wildlife enthusiasts eager to gain practical exposure to marine veterinary science. Over the course of two unforgettable weeks, you’ll learn from expert marine veterinarians, biologists, and conservationists, gaining valuable insights into their work and the unique challenges of caring for marine wildlife.
Your package includes accommodation, meals, ground transport, and all scheduled activities, ensuring a seamless and immersive learning experience. PLEASE NOTE: Due to the ever-changing nature of wildlife and weather, the order of activities in the itinerary may shift to give you the best possible experience.
MARINE VETERINARY SCIENCES 2 WEEK COURSE OUTLINE
Day 1
ARRIVAL & ORIENTATION
You arrive at Cape Town International airport in the afternoon. Welcome to South Africa! You’ll arrive at Cape Town International Airport in the afternoon, where our team will meet you and transfer you to your accommodation in Simons Town. After settling in, we’ll host an orientation session to introduce you to the program, discuss safety protocols, and give you an overview of the exciting two weeks ahead.
Day's 2 and 3
CAPE RADD: RESEARCH & DIVER DEVELOPMENT
Over the next two days, you’ll immerse yourself in marine research with the Cape RADD team:
Day 2: Begin with a microscope workshop focused on shark blood parasites, followed by an afternoon snorkelling session where you’ll see these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
Day 3: Take part in a fish dissection workshop in the morning, then dive into an AI (Artificial Intelligence) workshop in the afternoon, exploring innovative ways technology is being used in marine conservation.
Day 4
AQUARIUM & WATERFRONT EXPERIENCE
Spend the day at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-class Two Oceans Aquarium before having the afternoon free to explore the vibrant shops, markets, and restaurants. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up gifts for friends and family back home.
Day 5
SANCCOB: SEABIRD RESCUE & REHABILITATION
Today is all about seabirds at SANCCOB – the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds. You’ll: Attend a lecture by the on-site vet (if available) on what it’s like to work with seabirds, including fascinating case studies. Tour the hospital facilities and learn about the centre’s vital role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing endangered seabirds, especially the African penguin. If available, you’ll also observe or participate in a necropsy session for a deeper understanding of seabird health challenges.
Day 6
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION & PENGUIN COLONY
Spend the day at a wildlife rehabilitation centre, where you’ll: Tour the facilities and learn about the unique challenges faced by injured and orphaned wildlife in the Western Cape. Participate in necropsies on interesting species (if available). In the afternoon, visit the Stony Point Penguin Colony, home to one of the largest populations of endangered African penguins, and learn more about their conservation.
Day's 7 and 8
MARINE DYNAMICS, APSS & COMMUNITY VETERINARY CLINIC
Over two incredible days, you’ll join the Marine Dynamics team in Gansbaai: Embark on a “Marine Big 5” boat trip (weather permitting) to search for whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and penguins. Visit the African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) and assist with conservation efforts. Take part in blood work analysis and contribute to research projects. Spend time at the Community Veterinary Clinic (CVC), where you’ll gain insight into the challenges of veterinary care in coastal communities.
Day 9
GARDEN ROUTE GAME RESERVE
No trip to South Africa would be complete without a safari! Today you’ll travel to a Big 5 game reserve. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive and spend the night at the lodge, listening to the sounds of the wild – maybe even the roar of lions under the stars.
Day 10
GAME DRIVE, KNYSNA & PLETTENBERG BAY
Start the morning with another game drive through the reserve before continuing along the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay. On the way, stop at the famous Knysna Heads – a spectacular natural landmark known as the “Jewel of the Garden Route.”
Day 11
COASTAL HIKE & MARINE STRANDINGS NETWORK
Begin the day with a 5km hike along the Robberg Peninsula, guided by a marine biologist who will share fascinating insights into local marine ecosystems. In the afternoon: Attend a lecture on the Plett Marine Animal Stranding Network and their vital role in marine animal rescue. Learn about the recent rabies outbreak in Cape fur seals and its conservation implications. If available, you’ll observe or assist in a necropsy session.
Day 12
ESTUARY SNORKEL & COASTAL CONSERVATION
Spend the day exploring the Keurbooms Estuary with the Conserve Eden research team: Snorkel through this unique ecosystem while collecting data to contribute to ongoing research projects. In the afternoon, head to the beach for discussions on urban ecology impacts, coexistence with beach-breeding birds, plastic pollution, and marine strandings. You’ll also search for and record marine life sightings along the shoreline.
Day 13
DEPARTURE
Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye. After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to George Airport for your flight back to Cape Town International Airport, where you’ll connect with your onward international flight. We’re confident this Marine Vets experience will leave you with unforgettable memories, invaluable skills, and a deeper passion for marine veterinary science that will benefit you throughout your career.