The SSI Advanced Open Water Diver certification is a significant step up from your Open Water certification, opening doors to a wider range of dive experiences and environments. It's not just about getting more dives under your belt; it's about enhancing your skills, expanding your knowledge, and building confidence to tackle more challenging dives. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver program, answering frequently asked questions and providing valuable insights for aspiring divers.
What is the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Course?
The SSI Advanced Open Water Diver course builds upon the foundational skills learned in the Open Water Diver program. Unlike some other advanced certifications, the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver isn't focused on mastering a single specialized dive. Instead, it allows for a customized learning experience, focusing on dives that genuinely interest you. You'll choose from a selection of adventure dives, each focusing on specific skills and techniques, ultimately broadening your diving capabilities and comfort levels. This approach ensures the training remains engaging and relevant to your individual aspirations.
What are the Prerequisites for the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Certification?
To embark on your Advanced Open Water adventure, you'll need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Certified Open Water Diver: You must hold a valid Open Water Diver certification from a recognized training agency.
- Minimum Age: You generally need to be at least 15 years old, although age restrictions might vary depending on the specific location and dive center.
- Medical Clearance: A medical examination from a physician is required to ensure you're fit for diving.
- Minimum Number of Dives: You'll typically need a certain number of logged dives (usually around 24) before beginning the course, though specific requirements might differ based on the dive center.
- Competency: You need to demonstrate competency in basic scuba skills before starting the program.
It's crucial to contact your local SSI dive center to confirm the precise prerequisites for their course.
What Adventure Dives Can I Choose for my SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Course?
The beauty of the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver program lies in its flexibility. You have the freedom to select adventure dives aligned with your interests. Popular choices include:
- Deep Diver: Explore the depths, learning about managing air consumption at greater depths and understanding the physiological effects of increased pressure.
- Navigation Diver: Master underwater navigation techniques, honing your compass skills and improving your ability to maintain direction and locate dive sites.
- Wreck Diver: Discover the fascinating world of underwater wrecks, learning safety procedures and techniques for exploring these captivating environments responsibly.
- Night Diver: Experience the magic of diving at night, learning to navigate and adapt your skills to low-light conditions.
- Boat Diver: Enhance your skills in boat diving, learning proper boat procedures and safety protocols.
- Search and Recovery Diver: Develop the skills to locate and recover underwater objects, a crucial skill in technical diving. This is a more advanced option and often a pre-requisite for more technical diving certifications.
- Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox): Learn to safely utilize enriched air nitrox to extend your bottom time. This is a very popular option for many advanced divers.
Many SSI dive centers offer a diverse range of other adventure dives, so discuss your options with your instructor.
How Long Does the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Course Take?
The duration of the course varies depending on the number of adventure dives you choose and the scheduling of your dive center. Typically, the course can be completed within a few days, often a long weekend, allowing you to balance your diving with other activities during your trip.
Is the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Certification Recognized Worldwide?
Yes, the SSI (Scuba Schools International) certification is widely recognized and respected globally. This means your certification will be accepted by dive operators worldwide, allowing you to continue exploring dive sites across the globe.
What are the Costs Associated with the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Course?
The cost varies considerably based on location, dive center, and the specific adventure dives selected. Factors such as equipment rentals, boat fees, and instructor fees all contribute to the overall cost. Contacting your local dive center for a detailed price quote is advisable.
What are the Career Opportunities After Obtaining my SSI Advanced Open Water Diver Certification?
While the Advanced Open Water certification isn't a prerequisite for most professional diving careers, it's a valuable stepping stone. Many divemaster and instructor training programs require an Advanced Open Water certification as a prerequisite. It also demonstrates a commitment to diving and enhances your credibility as a capable and experienced diver.
Conclusion
The SSI Advanced Open Water Diver certification is an excellent investment for any diver looking to expand their skills, explore new dive environments, and build confidence in the water. With its flexible curriculum and emphasis on personalized learning, this program provides a rewarding and enriching diving experience, laying the groundwork for future advanced diving adventures. Remember to contact your local SSI dive center to discuss your options and get started on your next underwater adventure!
