"How experienced do you need to be to dive alone?" It's one of the most common questions new divers ask their instructors, and the honest answer is: more experienced than most people think. The SSI Independent Diver Specialty at Get-N-Wet Scuba is built for divers who have put in the dive time and want the training to back up that independence. "Self-sufficiency" is the theme of this course — you'll learn to maintain a strong awareness of your personal condition and your environment, plan dives thoroughly, recognize your own limitations, and prevent accidents in and out of the water.

This specialty is especially popular with experienced underwater photographers and videographers who want the freedom to focus on their shot without being tied to a buddy's pace. It's also commonly paired with the SSI Recreational Sidemount course, since independent diving typically requires carrying two separate, redundant breathing gas systems.

What to expect

• Prerequisite: minimum age 18; Advanced Adventurer or higher
• Prerequisite: 75+ logged open water dives totaling 50+ hours
• Prerequisite: Navigation, Night/Limited Visibility, and Deep Diving specialties (or 5 logged dives each), plus Diver Stress and Rescue certification
• Often paired with the SSI Recreational Sidemount course

FAQ

Who is the Independent Diver Specialty designed for?

Experienced divers, often underwater photographers and videographers, who want the training and certification to dive independently and self-sufficiently without a buddy.

What are the prerequisites for this course?

Minimum age 18, Advanced Adventurer or higher, 75+ logged open water dives totaling 50+ hours, Navigation/Night/Deep Diving experience or specialties, and Diver Stress and Rescue certification.

Does this course require special equipment?

Independent diving typically requires two separate, redundant breathing gas systems, which is why this course is frequently combined with the SSI Recreational Sidemount specialty.

Does becoming an "independent diver" mean I should always dive alone?

No. The certification trains you to safely dive without a dedicated buddy when appropriate, but sound dive planning and risk awareness still apply to every dive.