Many divers find sidemount tanks are more comfortable and easier to put on in the water. Sidemount diving is also beneficial for divers who want improved balance and prolong dives.

Take This Course If You Want to

• Experience a different scuba configuration

• Improve gas management

• Gain insight into basic tec diving techniques

Learn How To

• Assemble and configure sidemount equipment

• Mount scuba tanks in the water

• Adjust your weights for optimal balance

• Frog kick to move easily while wearing sidemount

How to Earn Your PADI Sidemount Diver Certification

Complete your Sidemount Diver eLearning coursework online, then meet with a highly-trained PADI Instructor for training dives.

• INDEPENDENT STUDY - eLearning, time commitment is 2-4 hours
• AT THE DIVE SHOP WITH YOUR INSTRUCTOR
  • First, you'll make a confined water dive to become familiar with sidemount diving equipment. Your PADI Instructor will also teach you sidemount diving skills including frog kicking, attaching and removing scuba tanks as you enter and exit the water, unclipping a scuba tank and swimming with the tank in front of you, and how to switch second stages and manage your breathing gas when wearing two scuba tanks.
• AT THE LAKE WITH YOUR INSTRUCTOR
  • When you’re comfortable with these skills, you’ll make three open water dives where you’ll practice your new skills, buoyancy control, and problem-solving.

Prerequisites: PADI Open Water Diver (or qualifying certification)

Total time commitment: 2-3 days

Minimum age: 15