Becoming An SSI Deep Diver: What To Expect And 6 Epic Dive Sites To Explore
June 18, 2024
If you are interested in exploring the world of deep diving, becoming an SSI Deep Diver might be just what you are looking for. This program allows you to get certified to dive up to 40 meters (130 feet) deep, giving you the necessary skills and knowledge to explore the depths safely.
In this article, we will go over what you can expect from this program and share some incredible deep dives that you can enjoy once you are certified. Ready to take your diving to the next level? Keep reading:
Why consider becoming an SSI Deep Diver?
When you join the SSI Deep Diving Specialty program, you will gain a deeper understanding of safety and physiology at depth and improve your dive planning abilities. You will get the confidence to enjoy more challenging diving experiences – all under the careful supervision of a trained dive professional.
This course also provides you with more experience and knowledge of scuba diving in general and can prepare you for further Advanced Diver courses or becoming an Extended Range Diver.
What can you expect from the SSI Deep Diving Specialty program?
First off, you will receive comprehensive theoretical training, covering topics like nitrogen narcosis, decompression sickness, and the effects of increased pressure on the body. You will also learn about specialized gear and equipment considerations, such as using extra air sources like pony bottles.
Practical training comes next, where you will put the theory into practice by conducting a series of deep dives under the guidance of experienced instructors. These dives will help you acclimate to the increased pressures and conditions unique to deeper depths. You will also practice important skills like buoyancy control, underwater navigation, and emergency procedures to ensure safety and build confidence.
One standout feature of this program is its focus on proper dive planning. You will learn how to calculate gas consumption rates, plan bottom times, and execute safe ascents to minimize the risk of decompression sickness. Dive planning also involves considering factors like currents, visibility, and potential hazards, ensuring a thorough approach to each dive.
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Safety is a top priority throughout the program, with instructors emphasizing best practices for managing risk and responding to emergencies. You will learn how to recognize and mitigate potential hazards, as well as how to execute emergency procedures such as air sharing and controlled ascents in the event of equipment failure or other unforeseen circumstances.
Once you are certified as an SSI deep diver, you will have the opportunity to explore a whole new realm of marine life, incredible wrecks, and geological formations on future dives.
Where can you use your Deep Diving certification?
There are incredible dive sites around the world that offer thrilling opportunities for diving beyond 30 meters (98 feet). From the famous Great Blue Hole in Belize to the SS Thistlegorm wreck in Egypt, there is no shortage of captivating dive sites awaiting certified SSI deep divers.
Top 6 deep dive sites you can explore as an SSI Deep Diver
1. Blue Hole, Belize
Located off the coast of Belize, the Great Blue Hole is a world-renowned underwater sinkhole measuring over 300 meters (984 feet) across and plunging to depths exceeding 120 meters (394 feet).
Divers with a deep diving certification can descend up to 40 meters (130 feet) to explore the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the walls of this natural wonder.
2. SS Thistlegorm, Egypt
Situated in the Red Sea near the Sharm El Sheikh coast, the SS Thistlegorm is a British freighter sunk during World War II. The wreck is accessible to advanced divers, but deeper sections of the wreck extend to around 40 meters (130 feet).
Divers with deep diving certification can explore the lower decks of the ship, where they will encounter military vehicles, motorcycles, and other fascinating relics frozen in time.
3. SS Yongala Wreck, Australia
Off the coast of Queensland in Australia, the Yongala is one of the world’s premier wreck diving sites. The deeper sections of the wreck extend to around 40 meters (130 feet), offering SSI deep divers the chance to explore the bow and stern sections of the ship.
4. Barracuda Point, Malaysia
Near the coast of Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan Island is one of the best places to go diving in Malaysia, renowned for its rich biodiversity underwater. Barracuda Point is a popular dive site where SSI deep divers can descend to depths of up to 40 meters (130 feet) to witness swirling tornadoes of barracuda, as well as encounter large schools of jacks, and reef sharks.
5. Blue Corner Wall, Palau
In the remote waters of the Pacific Ocean, Palau is a paradise for deep divers. Blue Corner is a legendary place to go diving in Palau, where strong currents attract an array of marine life. Divers with deep diving certification can descend to depths of 40 meters (130 feet) to explore the vibrant coral gardens and encounter sharks, eagle rays, and other pelagic species.
6. The Canyon, Egypt
Located in the small Bedouin town of Dahab, The Canyon dive site features a unique underwater gorge that descends to depths of over 40 meters (130 feet). With its intricate rock formations, moray eels, and sea turtles, the Canyon offers a great dive experience for Advanced Open Water and Deep Divers.
7. Zenobia wreck, Cyprus
The Zenobia wreck in Cyprus is considered to be one of the world’s top wreck diving sites. With a maximum depth of 42 meters (138 feet), SSI deep divers can encounter the ship’s lower decks and cargo holds and explore an eerie yet fascinating piece of history.
With visibility often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet), and marine life including sea turtles and groupers, the Zenobia offers an unforgettable deep diving experience.
Are you ready to take your diving adventures to new depths? The SSI Deep Diving Specialty program might be your next great underwater adventure!