MASTER CLASS - STINGRAY-OLOGY

Join Keith Cooper—fondly known as the “Stingray Whisperer”—in an exclusive, hands-on exploration of Southern Stingrays in the crystal-clear waters of West End, Grand Bahama Island. With decades of experience and a genuine passion for these majestic creatures, Keith has pioneered safe and respectful handling techniques that allow for meaningful, up-close encounters.

In this master class, you’ll:

• Learn Proven Methods: Dive into Keith’s tried-and-true approach for calmly interacting with Southern Stingrays, ensuring both you\r safety and the animals’ well-being.
• Develop Genuine Connections: Gain insight into stingray behavior and communication cues, enabling you to form a deeper, more harmonious bond with these gentle creatures.
• Appreciate Their Habitat: Understand the unique environment of West End’s waters and discover how stingrays thrive in their natural surroundings.
• Build Confidence & Respect: From the initial approach to direct contact, master safe handling techniques that minimize stress for both you and the stingrays.

• Introduction to Stingray Biology
  • Learn about Southern Stingrays’ behavior, habitat, and anatomy.
  • Understand their role in the marine food chain and why their conservation matters.
• Safe Handling & Best Practices
  • Discover Keith’s step-by-step techniques for interacting with stingrays in a calm, respectful manner.
  • Understand safety protocols for both you and the stingrays to ensure a positive, non-disruptive encounter.
• In-Water Experience
  • Practice under close supervision with Keith, as you learn to approach and handle stingrays without causing them stress.
  • Develop confidence in the water while honing your new skills.
• Conservation & Stewardship
  • Gain insight into local conservation efforts.
  • Learn how responsible ecotourism can support stingray protection and marine habitat restoration.

At the end of the course, participants will take a practical and written test to demonstrate their proficiency in stingray handling techniques and understanding of stingray biology. Upon successful completion, each participant will be awarded a Recognition Plaque commemorating their achievement as a certified graduate of the “Master Class – Stingray-ology.” This plaque is a symbol of both the skills acquired and a commitment to responsible marine-life interaction.