About the PADI Project AWARE Specialty

The PADI Project AWARE Specialty is about divers as ocean protectors. It looks at the main threats to the ocean and what you can do about them.

It is a workshop-based course that anyone can take, certified or not. It is a good way to start making a difference in the water and on land.

What you will learn in the PADI Project AWARE Specialty

Key threats to ocean health
Practical actions divers can take
Responsible underwater imaging and sharing
Eco-friendly travel choices
How citizen science helps
Tips for reducing your impact
How to talk to others about conservation

What you actually do: theory, pool and open water

Theory (knowledge development)	Knowledge development is usually done through PADI eLearning or self-study, and the learning is reinforced through a workshop.
Pool / confined water	Not applicable.
Open water	Check with Scubaversity whether an in-water element is included.

Requirements and minimum age

None.

Minimum age: No minimum age is published for the workshop-based version.

Training dives: No required dives.

How long does the PADI Project AWARE Specialty take?

Typically a few hours to a day.

What you can do after the PADI Project AWARE Specialty

Take part in ocean conservation activities
Join Dive Against Debris and similar projects
Build towards your PADI Specialty Diver collection
Share conservation tips with others

Who is this course for?

Anyone who cares about the ocean, whether or not they dive.

Delivered with Project AWARE

Project AWARE is dedicated to conserving the aquatic environment through education, advocacy and action — this course connects your diving directly to that mission.

What pairs well

Pairs naturally with Fish Identification and Peak Performance Buoyancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Project AWARE, and what will I learn?

Project AWARE is delivered in partnership with the Project AWARE Foundation, the scuba industry's leading nonprofit environmental organisation. The course covers ocean commons and coastal zone issues, fisheries sustainability, an overview of coral environments, and the diver's practical role in protecting aquatic environments.

What certification do I need first?

PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent) is the standard prerequisite for Project AWARE. If you're unsure whether your certification qualifies, get in touch and we'll confirm.

Why isn't a price shown on this page?

Project AWARE pricing depends on the current course schedule, so we confirm it directly rather than listing a fixed rate. Contact us and we'll give you the price and the next available date.

Where is the course run, and what pairs well with it?

Classroom sessions run at our Gauteng base. It pairs naturally with Fish Identification and Peak Performance Buoyancy, and is also a great specialty to combine with a coastal trip to Sodwana Bay or Aliwal Shoal. Reach out via contact to book or ask a question.

Do I need to be a diver?

The conservation workshop is open to anyone.

Will I get in the water?

Check with Scubaversity regarding the format you choose.

PADI Project AWARE Specialty