Description
Develop the special skills and techniques to plan, execute and evaluate a search and recovery dive from start to finish. You’ll learn to choose and run effective search patterns based on conditions and the size of the object, and to use lift bags and proper knots to raise items safely and under control. The course also covers communication, navigation and the teamwork that makes these dives efficient and safe. Whether you’re recovering a lost outboard motor, a dropped camera or a treasured item, these practical, problem-solving skills are useful in a huge range of diving situations and make you a more capable, confident diver.
This specialty is designed to acquaint the diver with special skills and techniques necessary to successfully plan, execute and evaluate a search and recovery dive.
Dives included: 2 open water dives.
Prerequisites
- SDI Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent
- Underwater Navigation experience recommended
- Minimum age 18; 15 with parental consent
- Complete a medical statement where relevant
What You Will Learn
- Selecting and running search patterns (circular, jackstay, etc.)
- Estimating object size and planning the search
- Knots and rigging for recovery
- Safe use of lift bags for controlled ascents
- Communication, navigation, and team coordination
Required Equipment
- Complete open-water scuba kit
- Lift bag(s) and lines
- Reel and marker buoy
- Compass, cutting tool, and dive computer
Course Requirements & Standards (SDI)
- Minimum of open-water training dives with an SDI Instructor
- Emphasis on controlled lift-bag use and search accuracy
- Conducted within recreational limits
After This Course
Practical problem-solving skills useful across many diving situations and toward professional roles.
