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The SSI Classified Diving program has been created to enable persons with disabilities who might not be able to earn full certifications the ability to dive and get certified with different safety parameters. Learn to work with disabled divers.
Move the cylinders from your back to your sides. Build a streamlined, balanced and adaptable setup across three hands-on days in Diani.
Instead of carrying a single cylinder on your back, sidemount places cylinders alongside your body and connects them to a purpose-built harness using clips, bungees or straps. The configuration began in cave diving and is now used in recreational, technical and overhead-environment diving.
You normally attach the cylinders in the water, making the walk to the entry point easier. Underwater, each cylinder can be adjusted or removed when appropriate, creating an exceptionally adaptable system.
Sidemount is not simply moving the tanks. Correct setup changes how you prepare, move and manage gas throughout the dive.
Fine-tune cylinder position and harness fit to create a balanced, streamlined profile.
Learn disciplined gas management across two separate cylinders and regulators.
Cylinders can be attached, adjusted or removed in the water when the situation permits.
Create the foundation for SSI Technical Sidemount training and multi-cylinder configurations.
Complete the digital learning before arrival, then turn the theory into repeatable skills with your SSI Instructor.
Work through SSI theory at home and record questions to discuss during your instructor workshops.
Build, adjust and understand the harness, bungees, clips, regulators and cylinder positioning.
Master the setup, entries, exits and core sidemount procedures in confined water.
Complete three training dives, earn certification and enjoy an included sidemount fun dive.
Recreational Sidemount theory and knowledge development.
Sidemount equipment, air fills, tanks and weights.
A confined-water session to configure and practise safely.
Instructor-led open-water dives on suitable Diani sites.
Put your newly developed sidemount skills into practice.
Fruit, drinking water and snacks during the boat trip.
Course transfers within Diani are included.
Certification after all performance requirements are met.
Recreational Sidemount establishes the equipment awareness, gas discipline and in-water control needed for future progression. SSI Technical Sidemount training develops the configuration further and introduces the use of at least four cylinders for technical diving.
Your course dives take place on Diani’s coral reefs and wreck at sites selected for the day’s conditions and training goals.
You must be at least 15 years old and hold an Open Water Diver certification or an equivalent rating from another recognised training organisation.
All participants complete a self-assessed medical declaration. A “yes” response may require medical clearance from a physician before training begins.
Check the medical guidance →Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Camera hire, extra refreshments and Ocean Tribe merchandise may be available separately.
The course takes three days, with SSI Digital Learning completed in advance. It includes equipment workshops, pool training, three instructor-led ocean training dives and one included fun dive.
No. You do need an Open Water Diver certification or recognised equivalent, but the course teaches you how to assemble, adjust and dive the configuration.
Yes. The course includes the required dive equipment, cylinders, air fills and weights.
Training takes place by boat on suitable Diani coral reefs and wreck sites. The instructor selects sites according to sea conditions and course objectives.
Ocean Tribe offers the Recreational Sidemount Diver course daily, subject to instructor and trip availability. Book online or contact the team to confirm your dates.
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Ocean Tribe Dive Team
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