The purpose of the  Open Water Side Mount Diver course is to familiarize divers with the skills, knowledge, planning, organization, procedures, techniques, problems, hazards and enjoyment of diving in double cylinders properly configured for open water side mount diving. The Open Water Side Mount course is intended to serve as a safe, supervised introduction to open water side mount diving within the limits of recreational diving limits. Training should emphasize fun and safety.

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Prerequisites for entering the course:

Open Water Diver or equivalent. Minimum age of 15 years old.

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Duration:

The course will require minimum 3 days of: diving ( 3 dives min ) , academic sessions and 2 or more equipment configuration sessions.

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Prerequisites for entering the course: 

1. Open Water certification from internationally recognized organization.

2. Minimum age of 18 years old

3. Have minimum of 25 logged dives

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Qualification of graduates:

Upon successful  completion of this course, the students are considered competent to assemble and utilize sidemount SCUBA gear in an open water environment.

 

Equipment requirements:

1. Mask and fins.

2. Two independent cylinders ( 40 cubic feet or larger required )

3. Exposure suit appropriate to site.

4. Weight belt or weight system.

5. Two first stage regulator with second stage ( one with a seven foot hose for air sharing ) pressure gauge with 6 inch hose, and low pressure inflator hose.

6. BCD properly configured for sidemount diving with a low pressure inflator.

7. Diving tool or knife.

8. Diving computer and/or timing device, depth gauge and tables.

9. Slate with pencil.

 

Certifying Agency Options :   SDI,  PSAI,  PADI