Classified Dive Buddy

Become a buddy who makes a difference. Learn how to support divers with disabilities, focusing on safety, cooperation, and trust.

The best buddy you can be

A good buddy makes every dive better. A Classified Dive Buddy makes diving possible for someone else.

In this course, you will learn how to safely assist a diver with a disability, both at the surface and underwater. You will not only develop technical skills, but also gain insight into communication, timing, and teamwork. You will learn how to prepare and conduct dives with extra attention to stability, comfort, and safety. This includes working with adapted techniques and learning how to provide support without losing sight of the diver's independence.

The role of Classified Dive Buddy is essential within the Classified Diving system. Depending on the diver's level, you will work together with one or more buddies, and possibly a Classified Dive Professional.

This course is intended for experienced divers (at least Stress & Rescue or equivalent) who want to deepen their buddy skills and play an active role in making diving accessible to people with disabilities. Upon completion, you will be certified to dive with Classified Divers at various levels, within the guidelines of the SSI Classified Diving program.