Sidemount Diver Course

The PADI Sidemount Diver specialty course at Aqua Vision introduces a highly efficient and comfortable scuba configuration. This course focuses on mounting twin cylinders to your sides instead of on your back, a technique that significantly enhances buoyancy control and streamlining. Divers often report reduced drag and greater ease of movement through the water, leading to improved air consumption and a more relaxed dive experience. The custom-fitted nature of sidemount gear is a key benefit, contributing to overall comfort during extended dives.

Safety is a paramount concern in sidemount diving, and this course emphasizes the advantages of easier access to your own air supply. You will learn how to manage cylinder valves, first stages, and alternate air sources effectively. This configuration is also an excellent preparation for more advanced diving disciplines, including wreck penetration, technical diving, and cave exploration, by building essential skills in managing multiple cylinders and mastering advanced buoyancy control.

This specialty training involves a comprehensive theory session, followed by practical exercises in the pool. The certification is completed with three open water dives. You will gain a thorough understanding of the seven key benefits of the sidemount configuration, learn about the main components of a sidemount rig, explore common harness and BCD options, and master the correct way to configure regulators specifically for sidemount diving. Aqua Vision, a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Dive Resort, ensures this training is delivered to the highest standards by experienced professionals.

To enroll in the PADI Sidemount Diver course, you need a basic scuba certification from any recognized agency, such as PADI, SSI, BSAC, or CMAS, with a minimum level of Open Water Diver or equivalent. Participants must be at least 15 years old. The 'All Inclusive' price of 9700 THB covers pool training, three ocean dives, sidemount equipment hire (utilizing Hollis SMS 50 and SMS 100 wings), certification fees, and provisions like lunch, fresh fruit, and bottled drinking water on all dive trips. This specialty can be conveniently combined with other PADI specialties offered by Aqua Vision.