Ever wanted to help coral reefs hands-on? In this course you will learn research and impact methods to make a real change!

3D Mapping & Coral Gardening Course on Gili Trawangan

This proprietary course is unique to Manta Dive Gili Trawangan and will enable you to leave your mark on the Gili reefs by helping us create 3D maps underwater and conduct research on the effectiveness of coral gardening on reef health.

Diver working on reef restoration in the Gili Islands

What you’ll learn

Scientific experiment methods
This course includes experiment methods conducted to research reef health initiatives you can become part of.
3D Mapping techniques
Become part of our effort to 3D map the Gili reefs - learn how it works and take footage yourself to make a difference.
Substrate ID & Coral Gardening
Learn about hard corals, soft corals, sponges, algae, rocks, rubble and more to identify what you see on the ocean floor, how to spot imbalances and how to help affected reefs regenerate.

Coral gardening dive with Manta Dive on Gili Trawangan

3D Mapping & Coral Gardening Course Prerequisites

Age: 18+, Advanced certification + 20 logged dives
You need to be 18 years old and have logged at least 20 dives. The Advanced certification or equivalent is a must, because working on coral reefs demands a level of buoyancy mastery you only gain with time!
Missing dives or the Advanced certification?
No problem! We will be happy to arrange additional training for you before your course starts.

Marine conservation team at Manta Dive Gili Trawangan

3D Mapping & Coral Gardening Course Structure

This 2-day course has a flexible schedule based on the prior experience of students and current reef challenges. A possible schedule may include:

Substrate ID lecture
Introduction to Coral Gardening lecture
Introduction to 3D Mapping theory session
3D Mapping dives
Coral Gardening dives
Experiment dives with coral gardening and 3D mapping, as well as scientific surveys

What Course Comes Next?

The 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course is part of the Manta Dive Marine Conservation programs. We offer a wide range of continuing education in marine conservation and ecology.

Whether you want to extend your stay and learn about coral identification, join courses on your favorite marine species like sea turtles or sharks, or dive deeper into research - We have the right course for you. Find our marine conservation programs below!

More about our Marine Conservation Programs Find out more

3D Mapping & Coral Gardening Course FAQs

What’s included in the 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course?

Your 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course at Manta Dive includes:

Theory sessions and four training dives.
Full scuba equipment during training, including a mask, fins, BCD, regulator, wetsuit, weights and tank.
3D mapping equipment, including cameras.
Coral gardening equipment, including gloves and tools.
Slates, transect lines and other equipment for your practical training.

How much does the 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course on Gili Trawangan cost?

Our 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course costs IDR 4.300.000. This includes your theory sessions, training dives and the equipment listed above.

A one-time Marine Park Fee of IDR 100.000 is payable separately in cash on arrival.

What will I learn on the 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course?

You’ll explore practical ways to study coral reefs and contribute to restoration work. Activities can include learning how underwater 3D mapping works and getting involved in coral gardening to support reef recovery. The course gives you hands-on experience with marine conservation activities around the Gili Islands. It does not include a certification.

What are the requirements for the 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course?

To join our 3D Mapping & Coral Gardening course at Manta Dive, you’ll need to:

Be at least 18 years old.
Hold an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.
Have at least 20 logged dives.

Missing dives or the Advanced certification? We can arrange additional training before the course begins. Let us know when enquiring, and we’ll help you plan the extra training days you’ll need.