You will learn the benefits of using a sidemount configuration for diving as well as how to set up a sidemount harness. Practical training will take place in one confined-water session and four open-water dives. You'll be diving with at least two tanks. Then, you can add at most two more tanks.
Stage-only diving is the use of standard deco/stage cylinder configuration, without back-mounted cylinders, on an otherwise standard, or partly modified tec/rec BCD. The lower cylinder is attached to waist D-Rings and the upper cylinder to shoulder D-Rings, both via direct bolt-snap. Some divers (untrained in specific sidemount diving techniques) often incorrectly assume this approach to be sidemount diving. No bungee cord is utilised in the upper attachment, causing the cylinders to hang low beneath the diver and not in line (parallel) with their torso beneath their armpits. Without change of the BCD design, the lack of back-mounted cylinders also causes taco’ing of wing designs and much instability.
Steve, Your tutorials were amazing and an excellent addition to any instructor’s toolbox. I am a PADI instructor in Cyprus. After taking a few courses, I was able to master this style of diving. Although it originated in cave diving, it has gained popularity among recreational divers. But, only by using your technique, I have been able to certify competent and confident sidemount diver. I teach PADI Cyprus and have completed a few courses in order to master this type dive, which although originated in cave diving, is becoming very popular among recreational divers. I learned that your technique only allowed me to certify competent and confident sidemount diver. Sidemount diving, I know, is not difficult for any dive boat or Dive guide. I also know they will be safe and appear sleek underwater. You have a structured approach that explains every aspect of sidemount dive, including the configuration. Any instructor who is teaching sidemount I would highly recommend this! Thank you! read less
Computer-aided instruction forms an integral part of most courses we teach. Why? The reason is simple. eLearning helps students get in the water earlier and spend more of their time there. That is why we charge no additional for any applicable online eLearning programs. These are typically $140. This can translate into an additional day in-water instruction. That is how valuable it is. Priceless.
Sidemount PCB refers to scuba divers who have their diving cylinders placed along the diver's side, below the shoulders, and along the hips. As smaller cave sections can be penetrated, the tanks can be changed more easily. This was originally a popular configuration for cave divers. Diving professionals who perform technical wreck diving penetrations recognized the same benefits. To teach scuba divers in Thailand, we have highly-trained instructors.
I just want to say, your online training is top notch. I learn something every time I log in. The fact that you go above and beyond to engage with your subscribers only adds to the already incredible value we get from your site. Thank you very much for your time.
Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training CourseAlso, the SDI Sidemount PCB Diver certification counts towards a single specialty rating to achieve the SDI Advanced Diver Development program.
Upon successful completion of this course, graduates may engage in sidemount diving activities without direct supervision, provided the following limits are adhered to:
You can rent items like primary lights and cylinders, which may be difficult to carry. Please let us know if you need these.
You'll learn about the advantages of diving with a sidemount configuration and how to set up a tec sidemount harness. You'll get hands-on training during one confined water session and four open water dives where you'll start with two tanks and add at least two more, maybe even getting to six sidemounted cylinders.
A single specialty rating can be earned by obtaining the SDI Sidemount PCB Diver Certification to complete the SDI Advanced Diver Development programme.
Our CDS Basics Orientation course is the best option if you don't plan to use sidemount while you cave diver training.
Certification cards: We issue these only when earned. Simply taking part in a course does not guarantee certification. For cave courses, certification cards from multiple training agencies may be available. C-cards generally cost around $30 each, depending on agency. Your instructor can tell you more.
Sidemount PCB offers many benefits to any diver, but it's especially useful for cave diving. (It was actually cave divers that invented sidemount. These are just some of the benefits.
Tec divers can visit reefs and wrecks at depths well below the recreational limit of 40 meters/130 feet. They can explore underwater caves and other locations far beyond the reach of mainstream sport diving with specialized training.
from 130 to 148 feet
Those who are already decompression certified can immediately qualify for rebreather decompression dives. Individual training agencies set depth limits ranging from 130 to 148 feet (40 to 45 meters).
According to experts, approximately 40% of technical divers enroll in additional education and training programs. This yields a reasonable estimate of approximately 160,000 active technical divers worldwide.