The uniqueness of the Amvrakikos Gulf lies in its extremely high density of dolphins, as well as sea turtles and many fish and sea bird species. The Amvrakikos Gulf is not a glamorous tourist destination, and so retains a genuinely traditional Greek environment. The dolphins living in the Gulf often approach the research boat to bowride, even when the boat is moving slowly, so you will have a chance to see them at close quarters and hear their echolocation clicks and whistles. We hope you will join us in this endeavor.

The village of Vonitsa, where the field station is located, lies on the southern coast of the Amvrakikos Gulf. The Amvrakikos Gulf is the largest and one of the most important wetlands in Greece. The Amvrakikos Gulf is designated as a Ramsar site and as a Special Protection Area. It has rocky and pebble beaches and is surrounded by densely wooded mountain peaks, verdant plains, lakes and rivers, as well as sparkling white villages inhabited by kind and hospitable people.

The Byzantines, and then the Turks and the Venetians, built a large castle on the hill of Vonitsa. The castle, illuminated at night, is a beautiful sight and offers rewarding views of the gulf. Vonitsa is a quiet, welcoming village with a nice seafront and typical Greek cafés and tavernas where one can sit and enjoy good food or a café frappé (iced coffee, a favorite refreshing beverage in Greece). Dolphins can be occasionally seen from the castle’s hill or even from the seaside. Large sea turtles can be spotted from the coast, and even inside the port among the moored boats.

The economy in the area is simple and includes fishing, fish-farming and agriculture. Tourism is relatively undeveloped. Locals are very friendly and sometimes curious about foreigners, as the place is not a target for international tourism. In Vonitsa everyone knows everyone else and new faces in town may call some attention. Most people speak exclusively Greek but many can manage to communicate with a few words of English.