Specialty · Conservation

AWARE Shark Conservation

Do you love sharks, or fear them? Either way, this specialty turns you into an informed advocate for one of the ocean's most misunderstood predators.

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What you'll learn

Declining shark populations and their causes, shark anatomy, senses, reproduction, habitat and feeding, and practical actions divers can take to help protect them.

#Divers4Makos

This specialty features the #Divers4Makos campaign — mako sharks are especially vulnerable to overfishing, particularly in the North Atlantic, with an estimated 50-year recovery time even if fishing bans were implemented today.

Requirements

PADI Junior Open Water Diver (minimum age 12) or equivalent.

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the minimum age and prerequisite for this course?

You need PADI Junior Open Water Diver (minimum age 12) or an equivalent certification to enrol in AWARE Shark Conservation.

Is this an in-water course, or mostly classroom?

It's primarily knowledge-based, covering declining shark populations and their causes, shark anatomy, senses, reproduction, habitat and feeding, plus video content on shark biology and conservation, including the #Divers4Makos campaign. It's run at our Gauteng classroom, with no dedicated certification dives required.

What is the #Divers4Makos campaign?

It's a conservation campaign featured in this specialty focused on mako sharks, which are especially vulnerable to overfishing — particularly in the North Atlantic — with an estimated 50-year recovery time even if fishing bans were implemented today.

How much does it cost and how do I book?

AWARE Shark Conservation is R4 398 for club members and R4 548 for non-members, including PADI materials. Book via our booking page or get in touch through contact with any questions.

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