Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute

Madagascar Research & Conservation Institute (MRCI) is a nonprofit conservation organization based on the small island of Nosy Komba, a short distance from Nosy Be in northwest Madagascar. Established in 2013, this government-approved, non-profit PADI Dive Center pairs dive training with real marine research — coral restoration, reef monitoring and turtle conservation. Every dive here directly supports long-term conservation work, so time underwater doubles as time spent giving back.

Courses and diving

With 3 PADI Instructors on staff, MRCI offers PADI Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, Emergency First Response and Divemaster courses. That range suits complete beginners learning to dive for the first time as well as those working toward Divemaster. The dive centre is open to all volunteers taking part in MRCI's programs.

Divers explore the site Turtle Towers amid waters home to sharks, whales, turtles, ocean fish, corals, anemones, rays, eels, molluscs and crustaceans. The waterfront base offers onsite accommodation, equipment rental and English-speaking guidance, surrounded by white sand beaches and flourishing reefs.