Deep Diver

Down to 40 meters. Safe, prepared, fascinated.

The depths have a unique allure—different colors, a different kind of silence, and different creatures. With the Deep Diver Specialty course, you’ll extend your diving depth to up to 40 meters and learn what sets deep diving apart from other dives: physiologically, technically, and psychologically. You’ll head into
the depths—and know what matters.

Underwater photograph of a coral reef featuring the text "Deep Diver" and the logo of the diving organization SWIB on a blue background. Website: sub-international.com.

AT A GLANCE

Minimum age 16 years of age (for minors, consent of both legal guardians is required)
Prerequisite Open Water Diver * or equivalent certification
Required dives 10 dives (proof required before the course begins)
Course content 2 theory sessions + 2 night dives
Max. Dive Depth 40 meters
Certification S.U.B. International Deep Diver certification card

WHAT YOU'LL BE ABLE TO DO AFTER THE COURSE

The Deep Diver course combines theory and practice into a compact, intensive program. Upon completion, you will be able to:

  • To understand and apply the interrelationships between physics, medicine, and psychology in deep diving.

  • To have a solid grasp of the fundamentals of decompression theory and to plan deep dives in accordance with the rules.

  • To be familiar with the technical requirements for deep-diving equipment—especially in cold waters.

  • Assessing your dive partner underwater, responding to their needs, and diving safely together.

The focus isn't just on technical skills: The course also promotes an awareness of the underwater ecosystem and how you can share your newly acquired knowledge as an experienced diver.

Theory (2 class periods)

  • The Physics of Deep Diving: Pressure Changes, Gas Solubility, and Changes in Light and Color at Depth

  • Medical Considerations: Nitrous Oxide Anesthesia, Oxygen Toxicity, Decompression Sickness – Recognition and Prevention

  • Psychological factors: depth-induced dizziness, overestimation, stress reactions

  • Fundamentals of decompression theory: no-stop times, safety stops, emergency procedures

  • Technical requirements for deep-diving equipment, especially in cold waters

  • Planning and debriefing of deep dives

  • Assessing and assisting your dive buddy at depth

Practical Training (2 dives)

The two practical dives will take you down to a depth of 40 meters in a controlled manner. You’ll put what you’ve learned into practice right away: dive planning, buddy check, buoyancy control at depth, and a safe ascent with a safety stop. The instructor will be with you every step of the way.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum age: 16. Minors must provide a written consent form signed by their legal guardians (usually both parents).

  • Certification level: Open Water Diver * or an equivalent certification as listed in the s.u.b. equivalency list.

  • At least 10 documented dives in the logbook.

  • Diving eligibility in accordance with the guidelines of the s.u.b.

HERE'S WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Theory class 

  • 2 practical dives to a depth of 40 meters

  • Course materials

  • Deep Diver certification card upon successful completion

The Deep Diver is one of the elective specialty courses in the Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) program. Those who complete the AOWD and choose Deep Diver as their specialty can dive to a depth of 40 meters—compared to the standard AOWD depth of 30 meters. The course can also be taken on its own, without completing the AOWD.

Interested in the Deep Diver?

Send us a message using the contact form—we’ll get back to you with all the details about the next appointment.