SSI Independent Diving eLearning

SSI Independent Diving — eLearning & Certification Credit Only

Take your self-reliance to the next level with the SSI Independent Diving specialty. This online course provides the theoretical knowledge needed to plan and conduct dives safely without a buddy — covering dive planning, gas management, redundant systems, and emergency preparedness. Completing the eLearning gives you your academic training and certification credit; practical sessions are available separately.

What you’ll learn online

• The mindset and responsibility of an independent diver
• Advanced dive planning and gas consumption calculations
• Use of redundant air sources and independent dive systems
• Navigation, buoyancy control, and environmental awareness
• Problem-solving and emergency procedures without a buddy
• Equipment configuration, pre-dive checks, and failure prevention

Optional practical training (booked separately)

To complete your certification, you’ll need to take part in the in-water training component with an SSI Instructor. This includes at least two open water dives focused on:

• Gas management drills and redundancy system deployment
• Navigation and task management exercises
• Simulated out-of-air and equipment malfunction scenarios
• Demonstrating situational awareness and dive planning skills

These practical sessions are not included with this eLearning product and must be booked separately with Dorset Diving or any SSI Dive Centre that offers the Independent Diving specialty.

Important

• Before booking, please ensure that your chosen dive centre offers the SSI Independent Diving programme and can deliver the required open water dives.
• Minimum prerequisites typically include Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent), at least 75 logged dives, and experience with redundant air systems.
• You may also need to complete a diving medical questionnaire or obtain medical clearance, depending on the centre’s requirements.

Free registration

Register for free and affiliate with our dive centre to begin your studies here:
Register with Dorset Diving.

What’s next?

Independent Diving is an excellent step for experienced divers preparing for Diver Stress & Rescue, Deep Diving, or technical diving pathways such as Extended Range.