Dive Levels: Complete Guide

Diving Levels Explained From Beginner to Expert
Scuba diving is an exciting activity that allows you to explore the underwater world but it requires appropriate training to ensure your safety and maximize your enjoyment Diving certifications are organized into progressive levels each corresponding to specific skills and limits in terms of depth and environment Here is a comprehensive guide to better understand these levels

1. The Diving Baptism

An Introduction to the Underwater World
The diving baptism is an initiation for beginners who have never dived before Under the direct supervision of an instructor you discover the unique sensations of breathing underwater

Duration About half a day
Maximum depth 6 meters
No certification required Ideal for testing before committing to a course

2 Beginner Level

Open Water Diver (PADI/SSI) or Level 1 (CMAS) These courses are the starting point to become a certified diver Open Water Diver (PADI/SSI) Maximum depth 18 meters Content Theory pool practice and open water dives Duration 3 to 4 days Benefits Worldwide recognized certification Level 1 (CMAS) Maximum depth 20 meters only accompanied by a guide or instructor Specificity Training more focused on technical skills

3 Advanced Level

Explore New Depths and Environments
Once the beginner level is validated you can continue your learning with advanced training

Advanced Open Water Diver (PADI/SSI)
Maximum depth 30 meters
Content 5 specialized dives such as deep diving underwater navigation or night diving
Benefits Ideal for exploring wrecks or deeper reefs
Level 2 (CMAS)
Maximum depth 40 meters accompanied by a guide or instructor
Specificity More autonomy and technical skills including advanced exercises

4. Advanced Level

Autonomy and Technical Diving
For experienced divers seeking more autonomy or to specialize in more demanding environments

Rescue Diver (PADI/SSI)
Content: Learning rescue techniques and emergency situation management
Prerequisites: Advanced Open Water and first aid course
Level 3 (CMAS)
Maximum depth: 60 meters
Specificity: Complete autonomous diving with other experienced divers

5 Technical Diving and Specialties

For those who want to go even further specific certifications allow the exploration of particular environments

Nitrox Diver Use of oxygen-enriched mixtures for extended dives
Deep Diving Exploration beyond 40 meters
Wreck Diving Techniques for safely entering sunken ships

6. The Instructors Training to Teach Diving

Divemaster (PADI/SSI) Role: Assist instructors and supervise certified divers Duration: Several weeks including in-depth learning Dive Instructor Content: Training to teach all levels from beginners to advanced Prerequisite: Be a Divemaster and accumulate several dozen dives

Which Level to Choose

The choice of level depends on your experience your goals and the environment in which you wish to dive Beginners can start with a baptism or an Open Water level while experienced divers can aim for advanced certifications to explore new horizons By following these steps you can gradually become an accomplished diver ready to discover the underwater wonders of the world And don't forget each dive is an opportunity to learn something new Feel free to consult our platform to find dive centers and read reviews from other divers Happy bubbles