Why complete the Marine Mammal Survey (MMS) training course?

ORCA relies on a large and dedicated team of volunteer observers to carry out its research, but to achieve the standard required we request that they first complete an MMS training course. In return, ORCA provides its volunteers with a wide range of low-cost opportunities to take part in a range of surveys, experience life at sea, encounter whales and dolphins and gain a greater understanding of ocean ecosystems and the threats that they face. But even if you don’t plan to get involved with ORCA in the long-term, this training course is designed as an excellent introduction to conducting marine mammal surveys that are of scientific value.

What makes ORCA’s MMS training courses so special?

In order to provide you with the best possible training, we use the most experienced trainers – it’s as simple as that! Each aspect of the training will be provided by recognised specialists in their field, ensuring that you get the very most out of your training day.

The Course

ORCA’s MMS training course is a certificated course designed to be fun and illuminating, incorporating practical training on how to organise and carry out line-transect surveys, improve your understanding of photo-identification techniques, work as part of a team, identify marine mammals, interpret their behaviour and prepare for traveling at sea. With a network of research vessels, ferries, cruise ships and yachts donating spaces to ORCA volunteers, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain the skills required to participate in future whale and dolphin surveys with the charity.

2008 Courses (will be updated regularly so please check)

2-day course: Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June 2008 Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, Patent Slip Building, Glanmor Terrace, New Quay, Ceredigion, SA45 9PS Enjoy a weekend away with dolphins and dolphin experts at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre in New Quay, west Wales. Includes cliff-top practice and experience out on a dolphin-watching boat - with the local bottlenose dolphins! Price: £165 Concessionary rate of £150 for ORCA and BDMLR members and full-time students. Maximum group size 20. For full details of this course, please download here. (Please note: the PDF document is 4.5MB in size so will take some time to download.)

Please note that course fees do not include accommodation or food.
To book on either of these courses, please download the booking form here or call 0845 108 6454.