Atlantic Onboard Internships
Atlantic Onboard Internships is a specialised programme that connects students, recent graduates and early‑career professionals with nautical companies in Madeira, the Azores, the Canary Islands and Martinique.
Its purpose is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real‑world maritime work by offering certified, hands‑on training placements at sea, embedded in the values of the Blue Economy and ocean conservation.
Key features
Flexible formats
Internships can be short or long term, with options that include or exclude accommodation, meals and local transfers depending on the host company and region.
Educational and certified
Placements are structured to meet the learning requirements of universities and training programmes, including clear learning outcomes, supervision and the possibility of academic recognition or certificates.
Environmental and social focus
Activities emphasise marine biodiversity, responsible tourism, community engagement and workplace safety, allowing participants to contribute to real conservation and education projects.
Internship pathways
- Marine Biology & Research
Interns join survey trips, data‑collection activities and biodiversity monitoring, contributing to research on cetaceans, other marine species and ocean health in Atlantic waters. - Navigation & Seamanship
Participants learn the foundations of sailing, route planning, vessel operations and safety at sea, working alongside experienced skippers and crew on real vessels. - Sustainable Tourism & Guiding
Interns support eco‑tourism operations such as whale watching and environmental interpretation, gaining skills in guiding, customer care and responsible visitor management. - Environmental Communication
This pathway focuses on science outreach, photography, digital storytelling and awareness‑raising campaigns related to marine conservation and dark‑sky protection.
How it works
Explore offers by region and theme
Candidates browse placements filtered by Atlantic region, internship type, duration and whether accommodation is included.
Apply through the online platform
Applicants submit a short profile, CV and motivation statement through a common application tool that connects them with host organisations.
Match with a host company
Host operators review applications, conduct interviews where needed, and jointly define tasks, learning outcomes and practical details.
Embark, learn and contribute
During the internship, participants receive guidance from on‑board mentors, take part in day‑to‑day operations and contribute to concrete environmental and community‑focused initiatives.
Ideal candidates
- Students and recent graduates in marine biology, oceanography, environmental science, sustainable tourism, maritime studies or related fields.
- Young professionals seeking to pivot towards Blue Economy careers or add practical experience to their academic background.
Ideal candidates
- Whale‑watching and marine wildlife operators.
- Sailing schools and charter companies.
- NGOs, research organisations and science‑tourism enterprises working in Atlantic coastal areas.
