The purpose of the Self-Reliant Diver specialty course is to recognize and accept the role of the buddy system and its contributions to diver safety while identifying and developing self-reliance and independence while diving. There are two reasons for an experienced diver to take the Self-Reliant diver course:

• To develop the skills of planning and carrying out dives without a partner when preferred or necessary.
• To sharpen skills of diving self-reliance, making the diver a stronger partner in a dive pair or team.

When diving alone may be applicable, this course covers: dive planning, life support system readiness, adaptive training, equipment and responsibility.

This course is an introduction to self-reliant diving that helps student divers develop the skills, knowledge and techniques necessary to rely on themselves first, whether or not they are diving with a partner, including:

• The value and application of the buddy system
• The philosophy of, and motivation for, diving without a partner
• Potential risks of diving alone, and how to manage those risks
• The value of equipment redundancy and what back-up equipment is needed.
• Dive planning and gas management

Prerequisites

• Be certified as a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or have a qualifying certification from another traning organization
• Have a minimum 100 logged dives
• Be 18 years of age or older