​
Self-Reliant/Solo Diver
​
The Course
Although diving with a buddy is the norm, there are reasons for an experienced diver to develop self-reliance and independence while diving. Learning to carry out dives without a partner can make you a stronger diver in most dive situations.
​
With proper training, equipment and the right attitude to accept the risks involved in independent diving, an experience diver can responsibly engage in dives without a buddy. Self-reliant diving is an adventure activity that is not for everyone, but does have its place. If you have the mental discipline and commitment to learn and follow self-reliant diving techniques, you'll bolster your skills and confidence when diving alone, in a dive pair or as part of a team.
Requirements
You need to be an Advanced Open Water Diver who is at least 18 years old and has at least 100 logged dives to enroll in the Self-Reliant Diver course. You'll also complete a skills assessment with your Self-Reliant/Solo Diver Instructor before diving into the course.
​
The Learning
Learning how to compensate for situations you would normally handle with a buddy is the focus of the Self-Reliant Diver course. This includes proper dive planning using air consumption rate calculations, life support system redundancy, and independent management of dive emergencies. During three self-reliant training dives, you'll practice:
​
-
Performing an air consumption rate swim to gather information for later calculation.
-
Switching to a redundant air supply system during simulated emergency situations.
-
Swimming without a mask.
-
Navigating to various points, including your exit.
-
Using a DSMB.
​
Important Medical Information
All student divers are required to complete the PADI/RSTC Medical Statement Participant Record form. If you can answer "YES" to one or more of the questions in the Divers Medical Questionnaire section of this form, then you are required to obtain a physician's release, without conditions or restrictions, before participating in any in-water component of the course. Please read the complete details and download the form here.
If you have a copy of this form signed by a physician within 12 months prior to the expected completion date of your course, and your medical history has not changed, then you may provide a copy of it to your instructor. Otherwise, you will need to complete a new form.
​
Pricing
​
$424
Course tuition includes:​​
-
Learning materials
-
2 or 3 open water instructional dives with your professional instructor
-
Use of primary tank and weights
-
Certification processing
-
Certification card
​
Get Started
​
Stop by or call Scuba Frisco at 214-227-2494 to enroll in the course and get started.
​
Student Agreement: By registering for the Self-Reliant/Solo Diver Course, you indicate that you have read and agree to the course policies, terms and conditions.
​
Self-Reliant/Solo Diver Course Schedule
​
The Gear
​
Besides your basic scuba equipment, you'll need a DSMB and spool/reel with at least 100 feet of line, redundant gas source and mounting hardware, BCD capable of carrying a redundant gas source, redundant dive computer, redundant surface signaling device, underwater slate or notebook with pencil. Your Scuba Frisco Instructor will suggest other gear as appropriate.
​
The Next Step
​
With your Self-Reliant/Solo Diver certification, you'll be prepared to be a better, stronger part of any dive team. Consider earning additional specialty diver certifications or the prestigious Master Scuba Diver certification. You may want to expand your diving skills even more with the Rescue Diver course. Ask your instructor or divemaster, stop by Scuba Frisco, or give us a call for more details.