PADI Project AWARE

Shark Conservation Course

Words from our resident shark expert, Matt, on this exciting certification.

 

Course Description

Sharks are crucial to marine ecosystems. They maintain a balance in populations of prey species and keep the ocean healthy by removing ill or diseased animals. They are an important resource supporting local economies through fishing and as an attraction to dive tourists.

Sharks are in a global decline. Over fishing has reduced many shark populations around the world to levels that threaten their continued existence. Shark numbers have fallen by more than 80% in many cases, and the continued existence of some species is at immediate risk in some regions. European sharks are particularly in danger with around one third of the species threatened with extinction, one of the highest levels in the world.

There are many actions needed to address these issues. Shark fisheries management is of primary importance, but trade restrictions and monitoring are also important. The AWARE Shark Conservation Diver course will contribute towards the conservation of sharks by building awareness of the issues and inspiring students to speak up and act to protect sharks.

 

What to expect from the course . . .

  • Learn about why Sharks are in peril, and why we should care

  • Learn about the unique physical attributes of sharks

  • History of the conservation status of sharks and how we can help spread the word

  • Learn key management strategies that can protect sharks – including what DIVERS can do to help!

  • Identify sharks in the Bahamas and their conservation status

  • Recognize threats to sharks in the Caribbean

  • Learn responsible diving habits for diving with sharks, along with important safety tips for diving with sharks.

  • Take action and join the Project AWARE movement

 
 

The AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty is divided into three segments:

1) Classroom Presentation and Knowledge Development

This segment involves classroom presentation on the local Sharks of the Caribbean, Shark Conservation and how we can help, and a shark diving briefing – safety procedures and protocol for diving with large sharks.

2) Open Water Dives with Sharks in Nassau, Bahamas

This segment involves dives with sharks and observing a shark feeding.

3) Earn specialty certification card for taking this course

This certification earned can be used towards obtaining master scuba diver status

During the AWARE Shark Conservation course you will encounter sharks like you have never before. The sharks of Nassau are used to divers, and may bump you or swim within inches of you or your camera. This is a very safe dive, but does not involve a cage or any barrier between you and the sharks. Shark species that may be seen on the dive include: Hammerhead sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and of course the Goliath Grouper who live on the wrecks.

Our aim is to replace fear of sharks with knowledge and admiration. If the sharks die, the seas die. So join our Central Coast Dive team as we try to spread shark conservation through knowledge and experience with our amazing and beautiful sharks of the Bahamas.