Master the Art of Finding Your Way with SSI Navigation!

Ever had that moment of "where did the boat go?" underwater? Stop the guesswork and become the diver everyone wants to follow! The SSI Navigation Specialty gives you the "underwater superpower" of knowing exactly where you are and how to get back to your exit point safely and efficiently. Whether you’re diving in low visibility or exploring a massive reef, navigation skills are the key to a stress-free dive.

 

Why Master Navigation?

• Boost Your Confidence: No more anxiety about getting lost or having to do a long surface swim back to the boat.

• Optimize Your Dive: Spend more time looking at marine life and less time searching for the anchor line.

• Precision Diving: Learn to find that specific small wreck or hidden cavern every single time.

• Safety First: Master the ability to plan a dive route and stick to it, even when conditions change.

 

 

Course Prerequisites

This specialty builds on your foundational skills to make you a more autonomous diver.

• Minimum Age: 10 years old.

• Certification: Must be a certified Open Water Diver (or have a qualifying certification from another agency).

• Medical: Standard "Fit to Dive" medical questionnaire.

 

 

Course Structure

The Navigation program combines classroom theory with hands-on practice in the water.

1. Digital Learning (Theory):
   Complete the academic sessions via the MySSI App. You will study:

   • Natural Navigation: Using light, currents, and bottom contours to find your way.

   • Compass Navigation: Mastering the use of a dive compass for patterns and headings.

   • Distance Estimation: Learning how to measure distance using kick cycles and time.

   • Combined Techniques: Integrating natural and compass skills for complex dive sites.

2. Practical Application (Open Water Dives):
   You will complete at least two training dives where you will practice:

   • Compass Patterns: Navigating squares, triangles, and reciprocal (out-and-back) headings.

   • Natural Landmarks: Identifying and using "underwater signposts."

   • Relocation Skills: Finding a specific object or point of interest from a distance.

 

Recognition

This certification is a core requirement for the SSI Advanced Adventurer and counts toward your SSI Specialty Diver, Advanced Open Water, and Master Diver ratings!