SDI Open Water Scuba Diver

Course Overview & Training Objectives

SDI's entry-level autonomous certification revolutionized diver training by mandating the use of personal dive computers (PDCs) on every dive rather than traditional dive tables. The course emphasizes direct real-time decompression status monitoring, situational awareness, and foundational dive safety. Graduates are qualified to plan and conduct autonomous no-decompression dives with a buddy to a maximum depth of 18 meters.

Operational Envelope

• Max Depth: 18m (60ft)
• Decompression: No decompression
• Breathing Gases: Air
• Equipment Rig: Single

Course Structure & Training Requirements

• Course Duration: 3 to 4 Days
• Required Training Dives: 4 in-water dives
• Classroom & Theory: 10 hours instruction

Entry Gates & Prerequisites

Min age 18 (10–14 for Junior); medical clearance; swim evaluation (200m swim or 300m with mask/fins/snorkel, and 10-minute survival float/tread)