Never just follow. Know the way.
Master underwater navigation using a compass, natural landmarks and distance-estimation techniques. Explore confidently, conserve air and finish your dives exactly where you planned.
Turn every dive into a confidently planned adventure.
Great underwater navigation is about much more than watching a compass. It combines precise compass use with awareness of reef formations, sand patterns, depth, light, currents and other natural clues.
During two instructor-led ocean dives, you will practise navigating planned routes and returning to your intended destination without unnecessary searching or stress.
- Build confidence at unfamiliar dive sites
- Navigate more effectively with your buddy
- Combine compass headings with natural clues
- Develop skills useful for advanced and professional training
What you’ll learn
Practical skills that help you plan routes, maintain direction and recognise where you are underwater.
Compass precision
Set headings, maintain a course and use reciprocal bearings to return along your route.
Navigation patterns
Practise reciprocal, square and triangular routes while maintaining buoyancy and buddy contact.
Natural navigation
Read reef contours, depth, light and distinctive underwater features to support your compass work.
Distance estimation
Estimate underwater distance using kick cycles, elapsed time and other practical techniques.
Dive-site awareness
Build a mental map and identify useful reference points before and during the dive.
Problem-solving
Learn how to pause, assess and reorient if visibility, currents or conditions change.
How the course works
Complete your theory and then put your new knowledge into practice with an SSI Instructor.
Digital learning
Complete the SSI Navigation digital learning and knowledge reviews in the MySSI app before your training dives.
Instructor briefing
Review compass use, route planning, distance estimation and natural navigation techniques.
Two ocean dives
Practise navigation patterns and real-world orientation techniques at suitable local dive sites.
SSI certification
Complete the knowledge and performance requirements to earn your SSI Navigation Diver certification.
What’s included
We take care of your learning, diving logistics and equipment so you can focus on developing your navigation skills.
Who can join?
Entry requirements
You must be at least 10 years old and hold an SSI Open Water Diver certification or an equivalent entry-level certification from another recognised training organisation.
Medical requirements
Participants must meet the diver medical questionnaire requirements. Certain medical conditions or medications may require clearance from a doctor before diving.
Choose the Advanced Alternative Programme
Combine Navigation with the complete SSI Deep Diving and Enriched Air Nitrox specialty courses. Instead of receiving one general advanced certification, you complete three full specialty programmes.
The package includes six training dives over three days and can qualify eligible divers to dive to 40 metres after completing the Deep Diving programme.
Navigation course FAQs
Do I need to own a compass?
Standard course equipment is included. Contact Ocean Tribe if you would also like advice about choosing your own dive compass.
Is navigation only useful in poor visibility?
No. Navigation helps you follow efficient routes, locate features, return to an exit point and avoid unnecessary swimming even in clear water.
Is the course difficult?
The skills are introduced progressively. Your instructor will help you combine compass techniques with natural reference points until navigating feels comfortable.
Can a Junior Open Water Diver join?
The course is available from age 10 for divers with the required entry-level certification. Junior depth and supervision limits still apply.
Where will the training dives take place?
Training takes place at suitable local reefs or dive sites selected according to the conditions on the day.
Ready to find your way?
Speak to the Ocean Tribe team about completing your SSI Navigation Diver specialty in Diani Beach.
