At one point or another, many divers have found themselves alone during a dive, whether it was intentional or not. SDI’s Solo Diving is the practice of self reliant scuba diving without a “dive buddy.”Solo diving, once considered technical diving and discouraged by most certification agencies, is now seen by many experienced divers and some certification agencies as an acceptable practice for those divers suitably trained and experienced. Rather than relying on the traditional buddy diving safety system, solo divers should be skilled in self-sufficiency and willing to take responsibility for their own safety while diving.

Being one of SDI’s most popular courses, the Solo Diver course stresses proper dive planning, personal limitations, and accident prevention, as well as the benefits, hazards, and proper procedures for diving solo. You will also learn the additional equipment that is required for solo diving including its proper usage and assembly. This is the perfect course for underwater photography and underwater video divers as well as those diving with their children or buddies that may not be very experienced in scuba diving.

This course is for the certified SDI Advanced Diver (or equivalent) who is interested in learning how to dive independent of a dive buddy, or looking to strengthen your buddy team diving skills.

This course covers the key principles and responsibilities of solo diving, including:

• The history and philosophy of buddy diving vs. solo diving
• The pros and cons of both buddy and solo diving, including legal liability and the SDI Solo Diving waiver and release
• The mindset and decision-making required for solo diving, including when not to dive solo and who is suited for it
• Solo diving equipment, including configuration and preparation for local diving conditions
• Dive planning, limits, and emergency management for solo dives, including navigation, air consumption, and proper safety protocols (e.g., descent/ascent rates, safety stops, and decompression monitoring)

Course prerequisites:

• Minimum age 21
• Certified SDI Advanced Diver or equivalent
• Provide proof of 100 logged dives

Please note:

• Students are required to provide their own gear, or rent from the Louisville Dive Center at the student's expense. 
• All accommodations, transportation, park fees, and meals are NOT included in the price of this course.
• Tanks and weights are included in the course.