Recreational
Sidemount Diver
Move the cylinders from your back to your sides. Build a streamlined, balanced and adaptable setup across three hands-on days in Diani.
What is sidemount diving?
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.
- Learn to configure and fine-tune a sidemount system
- Develop balanced trim and precise buoyancy control
- Manage two independent gas supplies correctly
- Complete three training dives and one included fun dive
A different kind of freedom
Sidemount is not simply moving the tanks. Correct setup changes how you prepare, move and manage gas throughout the dive.
Adjustable trim
Fine-tune cylinder position and harness fit to create a balanced, streamlined profile.
Independent gas
Learn disciplined gas management across two separate cylinders and regulators.
Flexible equipment
Cylinders can be attached, adjusted or removed in the water when the situation permits.
A route to tech
Create the foundation for SSI Technical Sidemount training and multi-cylinder configurations.
Your course roadmap
Complete the digital learning before arrival, then turn the theory into repeatable skills with your SSI Instructor.
Digital learning
Work through SSI theory at home and record questions to discuss during your instructor workshops.
Equipment workshop
Build, adjust and understand the harness, bungees, clips, regulators and cylinder positioning.
Pool session
Master the setup, entries, exits and core sidemount procedures in confined water.
Ocean diving
Complete three training dives, earn certification and enjoy an included sidemount fun dive.
Skills you will practise
What is included?
SSI digital learning
Recreational Sidemount theory and knowledge development.
All dive equipment
Sidemount equipment, air fills, tanks and weights.
Pool training
A confined-water session to configure and practise safely.
Three training dives
Instructor-led open-water dives on suitable Diani sites.
One fun dive
Put your newly developed sidemount skills into practice.
Boat refreshments
Fruit, drinking water and snacks during the boat trip.
Diani transfers
Course transfers within Diani are included.
SSI certification
Certification after all performance requirements are met.
Build toward technical sidemount
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.
Requirements and preparation
Age 15+ and certified
You must be at least 15 years old and hold an Open Water Diver certification or an equivalent rating from another recognised training organisation.
Complete the questionnaire
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 →Come ocean-ready
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.
Sidemount course FAQs
How long does the course take?
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.
Do I need previous sidemount experience?
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.
Is the equipment included?
Yes. The course includes the required dive equipment, cylinders, air fills and weights.
Where are the open-water dives?
Training takes place by boat on suitable Diani coral reefs and wreck sites. The instructor selects sites according to sea conditions and course objectives.
When is the course available?
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.
