Learn why sharks matter and how divers can help protect them.

The PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty helps divers understand the important role sharks and rays play in healthy marine ecosystems. It focuses on shark conservation, common myths, threats facing shark populations, and practical ways divers can become better ocean advocates.

PADI describes the course as helping students understand the value of sharks to marine ecosystems and economies, the threats they face, and the solutions that can help protect them.

Course Includes

• PADI AWARE Shark Conservation specialty training
• Shark and ray conservation theory
• Understanding shark behaviour and misconceptions
• Shark population threats and human impact
• Responsible shark awareness
• Marine ecosystem education
• Conservation action planning
• Optional dive-based observation, depending on course structure
• Course paperwork and certification process
• Guidance from the Pro Dive team from booking to completion

Course Requirements

To join the dive-based Shark Conservation Specialty, students should usually:

• Be at least 12 years old
• Be a certified PADI Open Water Diver or hold an equivalent certification
• Be medically fit to dive if dives are included
• Complete the required medical questionnaire if dives are included
• Provide a PADI / certification number or proof of certification if dives are included
• Have an interest in marine conservation and responsible diving

Several dive centres list the PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty as requiring Open Water Diver or equivalent certification and a minimum age of 12 when dives are included.

What You’ll Learn

You’ll learn how to:

• Understand the role sharks and rays play in marine ecosystems
• Recognise common myths and misconceptions about sharks
• Understand why many shark species are vulnerable
• Identify major threats to shark populations
• Discuss conservation solutions
• Become a more informed shark advocate
• Observe sharks and rays responsibly
• Share accurate shark conservation information with others

Why Take PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty?

The Shark Aware / AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty is ideal for divers who want to become more confident, respectful, and informed around sharks.

It is useful for:

• Conservation-minded divers
• Divers who are nervous about sharks
• Divers interested in South African marine life
• Underwater photographers
• Dive Against Debris and PADI AWARE students
• Divers wanting a more meaningful connection to the ocean

This course pairs well with:

• Fish Identification
• Underwater Naturalist
• Dive Against Debris
• PADI AWARE courses
• Advanced Open Water
• Peak Performance Buoyancy