Diver Propulsion Vehicle Diver (SDI)

This course is designed for certified divers who want to extend range and efficiency using a diver propulsion vehicle while maintaining precise buoyancy and situational awareness. You’ll learn disciplined planning, safe operation, and integration of propulsion so the DPV enhances your dive rather than adding risk.

Training is private or semi-private (1–2 students), allowing close supervision and repetition until handling feels controlled and deliberate. Successful completion earns a specialty certification focused on safe, practical DPV use.

Next step: Tell us about your experience, access to a DPV, and where you plan to dive, and we’ll map out a safe training plan. Schedule a Free Phone Chat

• DPV setup, pre-dive checks, and basic maintenance considerations
• Trim, buoyancy, and body positioning while under propulsion
• Throttle control, speed management, and stopping techniques
• Tow and glide techniques to manage workload and gas use
• Navigation and route planning with extended range
• Team procedures and communication while using a DPV
• Emergency procedures, including loss of propulsion and towing a diver
• Gas management and ascent planning specific to DPV-assisted dives

• Reduces risk by pairing propulsion with disciplined planning and control
• Improves efficiency and range without increasing task loading
• Strengthens buoyancy and awareness while moving at speed
• Supports safer navigation and timely returns to exits or boats
• Builds confidence using propulsion in real-world dive conditions

1. Knowledge Development: Self-paced learning covering DPV operation, planning, hazards, and emergency procedures. Most students complete this over short sessions.
2. Instructor Briefing & Setup: Review of DPV configuration, weighting/trim, route planning, and team procedures. Timing varies by experience and equipment.
3. Open-Water Training Dives: Coached dives focused on controlled propulsion, navigation, towing, and emergency skills. Typically completed over 1–2 days depending on conditions and pacing.

Required personal scuba gear:

• Mask, snorkel, fins
• BCD, regulator, computer
• Exposure protection appropriate to conditions (wetsuit or skins as needed)
• Diver propulsion vehicle (DPV)

If you don’t have a DPV or are unsure what configuration works best, we’ll discuss practical options during your consult.

• Included:
• Private (1 student) or Private Group (2 students) instruction
• SDI digital learning materials (eLearning or equivalent materials as available)
• Instructor-led planning, in-water coaching, and debriefing
• Certification processing upon successful completion

• Not included (varies):
• Personal scuba gear (you supply your own or rent; rental availability varies by location)
• DPV rental or purchase
• Location or entry fees
• Charter boat fees (if applicable)
• Travel, lodging, meals, and optional purchases

We confirm third-party costs during the consult before you commit.

• Minimum age: 18
• Prerequisites: Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent)
• Water skills expectations: Comfortable buoyancy control and situational awareness before adding propulsion
• Medical: Completion of a medical questionnaire is required; physician sign-off is needed if indicated prior to in-water training

• Is this course taught privately? Yes. Instruction is private or semi-private for focused pacing and feedback.
• Do I need my own DPV? A DPV is required for training. Rental availability varies and is discussed during your consult.
• How long does the course take? Most students complete it over 1–2 days after academics, depending on conditions.
• Is this suitable for newer divers? You should already be comfortable with buoyancy before adding propulsion.
• Where do the dives take place? At sites chosen for safe conditions and effective DPV practice.
• What if conditions change? We reschedule when conditions aren’t appropriate—safety comes first.
• What if I need more practice? Additional coaching sessions can be added; certification is based on demonstrated skills.

Your phone consult helps us review your experience, DPV options, and local dive conditions. We’ll outline a clear training plan and confirm logistics before scheduling.

This ensures your DPV training is practical, controlled, and matched to how you plan to dive.

Schedule a Free Phone Chat