The SSI Open Water Diver course at Seahawk Watersports is a globally recognized entry-level certification that qualifies you to dive independently with a buddy to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) or 12m for Juniors under 12 years old. It is designed for beginners and focuses on building comfort and confidence through a “comfort through repetition” teaching philosophy. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Course Components
The program is typically completed in 3 to 4 days and consists of three main parts: [5, 6, 7]
- Theory (Digital Learning): You study the basics of dive physics, physiology, and equipment using the MySSI App or web platform. This must be completed before the final exam.
- Pool/Confined Water Sessions: You practice essential skills like mask clearing, regulator recovery, and buoyancy control in a controlled environment.
- Open Water Dives: You complete a minimum of four dives in the ocean or a lake to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting. [2, 3, 8, 9, 10]
Prerequisites
- Minimum Age: 10 years old.
- Ages 10–11: Limited to 12 meters with an adult/professional.
- Ages 12–14: Certified as Junior Open Water Divers (18m max depth).
- Age 15+: Full Open Water Diver certification.
- Swimming Ability: Must be able to swim 200m (or 300m with mask/fins) and float/tread water for 10 minutes.
- Health: You must complete a medical questionnaire; some conditions may require a doctor’s sign-off. [2, 3, 11, 12]
Key Benefits of SSI
- Flexibility: Instructors can adapt the order of skills to match your learning pace.
- Digital Integration: All training materials and your digital C-card are managed through the MySSI App.
- Recognition: The certification is interchangeable with PADI and other major agencies for future advanced training. [1, 4, 8, 13, 14]
