PADI Tec 40

The PADI Tec 40 course at ZOEA is the bridge between recreational and technical diving — the first step into planned decompression dives and the deeper end of the water column. It certifies divers to conduct decompression dives to 40 metres maximum, using the technical procedures and gas planning that distinguish tec from recreational diving. ZOEA runs this course in a part of Mallorca where 40 metres is genuinely reachable on several of the standard dive sites, which means the open water dives happen in meaningful conditions rather than a quarry.

The course structure follows PADI's three-section format: three knowledge development sessions, three practical application sessions, and four open water dives in the sea. It runs over three to four days. The knowledge sessions cover gas planning, oxygen exposure limits, decompression software, team procedures, and emergency protocols specific to technical diving. The four open water dives apply those procedures at depth.

At €505, the course price includes all course materials, the four sea dives, full equipment rental, and PADI Tec 40 certification. ZOEA notes that a diver can use their existing recreational equipment with minor modifications to start the course — you are not required to arrive with a full tec configuration from day one. The centre's Scubapro rental equipment covers what is needed.

Entry requirements are specific: 18 years minimum, 30 logged dives, PADI Advanced Open Water or equivalent, a Nitrox certification with at least 10 dives on enriched air deeper than 18 metres, a deep diving certification or 10 dives at 30 metres, a medical certificate issued within the previous 12 months, and active dive insurance. If the Nitrox certification is missing, ZOEA offers the PADI Enriched Air course on site for €205 before the Tec 40 begins.