DIVER STRESS & RESCUE COURSE AT A GLANCE

DURATION
3 days
MINIMUM AGE
12 years
MAXIMUM DIVE DEPTH
18 m
PREREQUISITES
  • Physically capable of completing the skills
  • Proof of current O2 Provider, First Aid and CPR training within the past two (2) years

SCHEDULE

DAY 1
Orientation & React Right Course
DAY 2
Pool Training & Beach Scenarios
DAY 3
Ocean Training Scenarios

PRICE

$475

Includes all digital materials

Download brochure

OVERVIEW

The SSI Diver Stress and Rescue Diver course is where you learn to respond to diver emergencies from a stressed panicked diver to unresponsive divers in life-threatening situations.

When we dive a massively useful skill to have to be be able to calm buddies down if they are stressed and to be of use during the unlikely event of a dive emergency. You will also find out that your awareness as a diver is massively increased following the course and you pay attention to your environment and safety considerations a lot more.

Many divers cite the Diver Stress and Rescue Diver course as the most rewarding program they have done.

The course is broken down into three segments, knowledge development, confined water (in a swimming pool) training, and open water dives.


Who Can Join the SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Course?

Become a more aware, confident dive buddy with Ocean Tribe in Diani Beach. This course helps certified divers recognise stress, prevent problems and develop the skills to assist others.

Certification

You’ll need an Open Water Diver certification from SSI or an equivalent qualification from another recognised diving agency.

First Aid

You’ll need a valid first aid qualification completed within the last two years. If you need to gain or update your qualification, ask us about combining your training with Ocean Tribe’s React Right course.

Age

The minimum age is 12. Contact our team if you have any questions about eligibility or training for younger divers.

Medical Fitness

Before training, you’ll complete a diver medical questionnaire. Depending on your answers, medical clearance from a doctor may be required. Our team will explain what’s needed before you begin.

What’s Included in Our SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Course

  • SSI Digital Learning

    SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Digital Learning.

  • All Equipment Provided

    All dive and snorkel equipment, including air fills and weights.

  • Pool Training

    Pool Training with an SSI Instructor.

  • Boat Refreshments

    Fruit, water and snacks on the boat.

  • 2 Days of Ocean Scenarios

    2 days of ocean scenarios with an SSI Instructor.

  • Transfers Within Diani

    Transfers within Diani.



SSI DIVER STRESS & RESCUE COURSE

ITINERARY

Build your knowledge, practise rescue techniques in the pool and develop confidence assisting other divers in open water.

START BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

DIGITAL LEARNING

Prepare for your course with SSI Digital Training in the comfort of your own home.

Learn at home In-app notes Section reviews
What to expect

Before you go in the water, complete your digital training. It covers the knowledge briefing and introduces scuba diving and safety concepts. Your SSI Instructor will elaborate on this during the SSI Diver Stress & Rescue course dives.

Knowledge development starts before you begin the course. You’ll need to complete most of the Digital Learning for SSI Diver Stress & Rescue before your in-water training.

SSI’s digital learning enables you to study in the comfort of your own home. Take notes in the app to discuss any concepts you don’t understand with your SSI Instructor.

Quick reviews assess your learning at the end of each section. You must answer correctly to proceed, helping ensure you understand the material.

PRACTISE IN THE POOL

POOL TRAINING

Get in the water and learn rescue skills and techniques with your SSI Instructor.

Pool at the dive base Rescue techniques
What to expect

Now it’s time to get wet. Confined water training for the Diver Stress & Rescue course takes place in the swimming pool at the dive base where your course is held.

Working with an SSI Instructor, you’ll learn the course’s rescue skills and techniques in a controlled environment.

PUT YOUR SKILLS INTO PRACTICE

OPEN WATER SKILLS

Develop your problem-solving skills and build confidence assisting other divers.

Scenario preparation Practical repetition
What to expect

Complete the remaining theory and land-based preparation for your scenarios.

Take part in open water sessions focused on problem-solving and assisting other divers.

Build confidence through practical repetition, putting your learning and rescue techniques into action.

Build your knowledge. Practise your skills. Grow your confidence.

Ocean Tribe underwater photography

Photos & Videos

Capture your dive experience by purchasing photos and videos, taken daily by our in-house photo team. Or capture the underwater world yourself by hiring DJI Osmo Action 4 cameras from the front desk.*

Buy Photos

* Subject to availability

Discover Diani beneath the surface

What You Might See

From turtles cruising the reef to tiny treasures hiding among the corals, every dive brings something different. Here are a few marine-life encounters to look out for around Diani.

Sea turtle underwater Reef favourite

Sea turtles

A highlight of Diani’s reefs. Watch for turtles gliding past or resting beneath coral ledges, especially at Galu.

Moray eel among the reef Look in the crevices

Moray eels

Take a closer look at the reef’s nooks and crannies. You might spot a moray peeking out from its sheltered hiding place.

Lionfish with its distinctive spiny fins Reef resident

Lionfish

Striking stripes and fan-like fins make these reef fish a memorable sight. Enjoy watching them with plenty of space.

Colourful nudibranch sea slug Tiny reef treasures

Nudibranchs

Slow down and look closely. These tiny sea slugs bring a splash of colour to the reef and reward a patient eye.

Manta ray swimming underwater Seasonal · Oct–Mar

Manta rays

Keep an eye on the blue for a graceful passing manta. A seasonal possibility rather than an everyday reef encounter.

Whale shark with its distinctive spotted pattern Seasonal · Oct–Mar

Whale sharks

An unforgettable encounter if you’re lucky. These ocean giants may visit Diani’s waters during the seasonal window.

Wildlife, not a promise. Sightings vary with the dive site, season and ocean conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Give marine life space, never touch or chase animals, and keep clear of the coral.

FAQS

What is the SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Course?

The SSI Diver Stress & Rescue course is designed to equip divers with the skills to prevent and manage diving emergencies. It focuses on recognizing stress, preventing accidents, and effectively handling emergency situations underwater and at the surface.

Who can enroll in this course?

To enroll, you must:

  • Be at least 12 years old
  • Hold an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent
  • Have current First Aid and CPR training within the last two years
  • Be physically capable of completing the required skills
How long does the course take?

The course typically spans 3 days, comprising:

  • Day 1: Pool training
  • Day 2: Open water skill refreshers and beach scenarios
  • Day 3: Open water boat scenarios
What topics are covered in the course?

The course includes:

  • Identifying and managing stress in divers
  • Emergency management and equipment
  • Rescue exercises for panicked and unresponsive divers
  • Emergency ascent techniques
  • First aid and CPR skills
  • Simulated rescue scenarios
Is there a written exam?

Yes, a final exam is required. You must pass the exam with no more than three incorrect answers out of 25 questions, equating to a minimum score of 88%.

What certification will I receive upon completion?

Upon successful completion, you’ll earn the SSI Diver Stress & Rescue Specialty certification, which is recognized worldwide and valid for life.

How does this course benefit my diving career?

Completing the Diver Stress & Rescue course enhances your confidence and preparedness as a diver. It’s also a prerequisite for professional-level courses like the SSI Dive Guide and Divemaster programs.