About the Course
PADI AWARE Shark & Ray Conservation Specialty | Essex
Discover the truth about sharks and rays, understand the threats they face, and learn how divers can directly contribute to ocean conservation.
The PADI AWARE Shark & Ray Conservation Specialty is a fascinating conservation-focused course designed for divers and ocean enthusiasts who want to better understand these incredible animals and help protect them for future generations.
At Bespoke Scuba Diving, we offer two ways to complete the course:
Option 1 – PADI AWARE Shark & Ray Conservation Specialty Certification
Includes:
PADI eLearning / knowledge development
One open water conservation dive
Participation in the AWARE Global Shark & Ray Census
Full PADI Specialty certification card
Perfect for certified divers wanting a recognised PADI Specialty that also counts towards Master Scuba Diver.
Option 2 – Shark & Ray Conservation Course (Non-Diving)
Includes:
Theory and conservation learning only
No in-water dive required
Certificate of Completion issued
Ideal for non-divers, marine life enthusiasts, photographers, students, or anyone interested in ocean conservation.
Why Learn About Sharks & Rays?
Sharks and rays play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. As top predators and key species within the ocean food chain, they help regulate marine life and support balanced ecosystems.
Unfortunately, many shark and ray populations are under serious threat from:
Overfishing
Bycatch
Habitat destruction
Pollution
Climate change
Negative media portrayals and misinformation
This course helps divers understand the real issues affecting shark and ray populations while showing how education, responsible diving, and conservation action can make a genuine difference.
What You'll Learn
During the course you’ll cover:
Shark and ray biology and behaviour
The ecological importance of sharks and rays
Common misconceptions and shark myths
Global conservation challenges
Shark finning vs sustainable fisheries management
Marine protected areas and conservation strategies
Responsible shark and ray tourism
How divers contribute valuable conservation data
You’ll also learn how to contribute to the PADI AWARE Global Shark & Ray Census, helping provide important data for marine research projects worldwide.
Open Water Dive (Certification Option)
For divers completing the certification version, the course includes one open water dive focused on:
Responsible interaction techniques
Species observation and identification
Logging shark and ray sightings
Environmental awareness
Buoyancy and low-impact diving practices
Please note: shark or ray sightings are not required to complete the course. Reporting where species are not observed is still scientifically valuable information.
Course Connections
This course works brilliantly alongside other environmentally focused PADI courses including:
Many divers combine these courses to become more environmentally aware, improve underwater skills, and become better ocean ambassadors.
Who Can Join?
Certification Option
Minimum age: 10 years old
PADI Open Water Diver (or qualifying certification)
Non-Diving Option
Open to anyone with an interest in marine conservation.
Why Take This Course with Bespoke Scuba?
At Bespoke Scuba Diving, we believe divers should not only explore the underwater world — but also help protect it.
This course is taught in a relaxed, friendly, and informative style with plenty of opportunity for discussion, questions, and real-world conservation examples. We focus teaching this on our overseas trips, but this isnt a prerequisite to learn more.
Whether you simply love sharks, want to become a more environmentally conscious diver, or are working towards your Master Scuba Diver rating, this specialty is a fantastic addition to your diving journey.
You can learn more about the work of the PADI AWARE Foundation here:https://www.padi.com/aware
You can also view the official PADI course information here:https://store.padi.com/en-gb/ns/courses/aware-shark-conservation-diver/p/aware-shark-conservation-diver/
Summary
PADI Specialty Certification Option
Price £129 - Overseas trips
DurationE-learning plus 1 Open Water Dive
Includes:
PADI Specialty certification
Conservation dive
Shark & Ray Census participation
Non-Diving Conservation Course
Price £99
Duration: E-learning / Classroom
Includes:
Conservation theory only
Certificate of Completion
Contact us to book:
Option 1 - PADI AWARE Specialty (Dry) - £99 - This will only provide a course certificate of completion.
Option 2 - PADI AWARE Speciality - Full - Join us on an overseas trip, and complete the entire speciality! - £129
📞 Call: 01708 837032
📩 Message us to book or ask questions