For divers interested in basic tec techniques and unique scuba configurations.

eLearning

Before your in-water sessions begin, you'll start with the PADI eLearning materials. You’ll learn the fundamentals of sidemount diving, including gear setup, trim and buoyancy considerations, gas management, and emergency handling.

Training

Your training begins in the pool, where you’ll get hands-on experience with sidemount gear and master the foundational techniques. Under the guidance of your PADI Instructor, you’ll learn essential sidemount skills including frog kicking, attaching/removing scuba tanks in and out of the water, unclipping a tank to swim with it in front of you, and how to safely switch regulators to manage your gas supply. Once you’re confident in the pool, you’ll complete three open water dives to refine your skills, enhance your buoyancy control, and gain real-world problem-solving experience in the sidemount configuration.

Course Cost Includes

The price of the course includes the eLearning, pool session, and ocean training. The gear is not included, but professionals at Santa Barbara Aquatics will help you choose the gear that fits your diving needs. 

Prerequisites

To enroll in the PADI Sidemount Diver course at SB Aquatics, you must be at least 15 years old, be Open Water certified, and be in good physical health for diving.