Become a Guardian of the Ocean with SSI Manta & Ray Ecology!
Have you ever dreamed of gliding alongside a majestic manta ray or watching a stingray gracefully navigate the sandy ocean floor? The SSI Manta & Ray Ecology specialty is your gateway to understanding these fascinating creatures. This non-diving specialty program teaches you how to identify various ray species, understand their vital role in the marine ecosystem, and learn why their protection is more important than ever.
Why Take This Specialty?
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Species Identification: Learn to distinguish between mantas, stingrays, eagle rays, and mobulas.
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Behavioral Insights: Discover the social habits of mantas, including their use of cleaning stations and migratory patterns.
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Conservation Advocacy: Gain the knowledge needed to become a voice for ray protection and understand the threats they face globally.
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Flexible Learning: This is a non-diving specialty, meaning you can complete it from the comfort of your home.
Course Prerequisites
This program is open to everyone—whether you are a seasoned diver, a snorkeler, or just a marine life enthusiast.
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Minimum Age: 6 years old (ideal for a family learning experience).
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Certification: None required. You do not need to be a certified diver to take this course.
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Note: If you wish to include optional training dives, an entry-level scuba certification (like Open Water Diver) is required.
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Course Structure
The program is designed to be engaging and can typically be completed in 3 to 6 hours.
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Digital Learning (Theory):
Complete the academic sessions through the MySSI App. Topics covered include:-
Anatomy & Biology: What makes a ray different from a shark?.
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Ecological Role: How rays contribute to healthy reef systems.
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Observation Techniques: How to interact with rays safely and respectfully without disturbing them.
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Practical Application:
While not mandatory for certification, many SSI Dive Centers offer:-
Classroom Review: A session with an instructor to dive deeper into local species and conservation efforts.
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Optional In-Water Training: One offshore dive or snorkeling to learn more about this amazing animals (only available from June to October with good sea conditions and minimum 8 persons onboard)
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Recognition
Upon completion, you will earn the SSI Manta & Ray Ecology Specialty certification. This also counts as one of the specialties required for the Advanced Open Water Diver or Master Diver recognition levels.
BEST SPOT AZORES SUPPORT EVERY YEAR THE MANTA TRUST PROJECT WITH PHOTO ID PHOTOS AND FINANCIAL DONATION OF 100£
JOIN ONE OF OUR OFFSHORE DIVE TRIP TO THE MOBULAS AND PAY ONLY FOR YOUR CERTIFICATION TO GET THE SPECIALTY. ASK US HOW
