Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Agencies

Tech Padi

International Training, which is the parent organization of Technical Diving International / Scuba Diving International, offers both TDI (Sidemount PCB Diver) versions. Both courses can be used in the same way. Both courses use the exact same learning materials (which, obviously, we also wrote). What is the difference between these two learning materials?

While we are able to teach the SDI course if you ask, the default is the TDI. Although you can do this program as an individual course, we recommend that students combine it with the Apprentice Cave Diver class.

Steve/Vas, your instructor series is phenomenal. Please let me be the first to say you are correct in what you say. One can teach themselves how to SM just by watching the videos as I have done. However, I did compromise/sacrifice my learning curve without one of you (SM essentials instructor). It took me almost one year to get pretty good with AL80s. I then... read moreSteve/Vas, your instructor series is phenomenal. Please let me be the first to say you are correct in what you say. One can teach themselves how to SM just by watching the videos as I have done. However, I did compromise/sacrifice my learning curve without one of you (SM essentials instructor). It took me almost one year to get pretty good with AL80s. I then took the first level of tech diving a year after that and told my tech instructor I was doing it in SM configuration. I had to tell him I taught myself which he responded with “you most likely will have to take a SM workshop with me depending on how I do on dive one”. After the first dive he said “there is no reason for you to take a class with me”. So your online training is spot on but if I had it to do all over again I would see your guy Joe Seda first. I will, in the future, take the course with him so I can be the best I can be. Regards Tony read less

You must know this is a common sentiment, but I do really appreciate your online videos. I have been able use them to setup my sidemounts much more efficiently, and I am able to diagnose issues with students and quickly fix them. I would like to thank you for all that.

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Kit

sidemountpcb.com training online is crucial for technical and recreational divers. While I have completed a Tec40 /sidemount class before I began my technical training, I consider this sidemount essentials. Joe was able, through the online training, to concentrate on the in water skills. Joe Seda taught me the basics of technical training. This was even though I had taken a Tec40 /sidemount class before beginning my training with Joe. Joe was able, thanks to the online training, to focus solely on in-water skill development. This was the foundation for both cave training and all technical training with Vas Proud. The online training is a good example of what all divers can expect from in-water training. It also speeds up in-water skill growth. My daughter is starting her journey in diving. She has already seen the backmount diving videos. I am looking over the instructors videos to ensure she has the best experience possible. I cannot stress enough how important these training tools are in the safe and competent development of technical and recreational divers. Daniel Glynn - Cave diver and father

Sidemount PCB provides many benefits for all divers, but is best suited to cave diving. (It was cave divers who created sidemount. These benefits include:

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Kit
Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training 2023

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training 2023

Steve, your Sidemount PCB Essentials course was great! I have probably never spent my money on anything more. It was so much fun, and I loved every minute of it. Your dedication and experience are amazing. Your attention to detail is amazing and you always strive to improve the situation. I enjoyed the Sidemount PCB Essentials course at Gozo. I have probably never spent my money on anything more. It was so much fun, and I loved every minute of it. Your dedication and experience are amazing. Your attention to detail is amazing and you're always trying to improve. Your enthusiasm to capture every detail, whether it be new equipment or hints, is what I love. These details can be captured with the camera so that they can be included in future videos. Your online training videos are an excellent resource. These videos will prepare you for in-water training. I believe that this is the key to the steep learning curve. Because you can use your time underwater efficiently, it's possible to be well-prepared. Steve, thank you so much! Nils, Cheers!

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Sidemount Diving Setup

Your online course was a great learning experience. Although I have had a few lessons with instructors during my scuba career, I can say that I have never seen such detailed, practical and useful explanations on how to be a better diver. My PADI AOW training was difficult because I struggled with buoyancy control when I attempted to shoot my SMB ..... I just had this amazing experience with your online course. Although I have had a few lessons with other instructors during my scuba career, I can say that I've never seen such detailed, practical, and useful explanations on how to be a better diver. As I attempted to shoot my SMB, my buoyancy control was a problem when I completed my PADI AOW training. My instructor suggested ways to increase my buoyancy. He advised me to practice. He was sure he had good buoyancy control but didn't tell me the importance of weighting properly, breathing control, and so on. Your videos were eye-opening. My dive buddies didn't get it. Even my highly-recommended instructors still ask me why I do sm. Is it useful? It is mostly done by cave divers. It was a great decision. It's a whole new world. Although nobody taught me or checked my SM skills, many times when I dive with other divers, they comment on how great my trim is. Your videos taught me everything, including how to set up my equipment, exit the water, and solve problems. We should meet up and have training together. I want to help other divers become better and more qualified. While I know there are many great instructors and divers out there, I believe your contribution to the scuba diving community is significant and vital. We are grateful for your efforts. Regards, Csaba read less

You are eligible to take a Tec sidemount PCB diver course if you're at least 18 and have logged 30 dives. A PADI Enriched Water Diver certification is recommended.

Who owns the Titanic wreck
Who owns the Titanic wreck

I just want you to know that your online courses are top-notch. Every time that I log in, something is new. The incredible value that we receive from your website only increases when you go above an ordinary level to engage with our subscribers. We appreciate your time.

Just wanted to let you know that your online training program is outstanding. Each time I log in, I learn something. You go above and beyond in engaging with your subscribers, which only enhances the incredible value you provide. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.

Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training Agencies
Technical Sidemount Scuba Dive Training 101

Although I've never attempted sidemount, after studying his online training I knew that Steve was the right man to guide me and make sure I succeed. I was right! It was truly a life-changing week! Sidemount PCB Essentials exceeded my expectations. Steve is a great teacher. He's patient and takes time to explain sidemount. I have never tried it before, but after watching his online video training, knew that Steve was the best man to guide me through it. I was correct! It was truly a life-changing week! Sidemount PCB Essentials exceeded my expectations. Steve is a great teacher. He is patient and gives his time to all of his students. Every step is carefully planned. It was memorable and rewarding. Sidemount PCB Essentials Course has changed the way I dive. I was amazed at how quickly my awareness and skills levels under water increased. Everything is in place: the harness, the weight and position of the swimmers, the cylinder trim and the balance in the water. This allows you to feel confident and relaxed. Although the course was quite challenging, it was extremely enjoyable. Every day began with a planning session, followed by a video review on our drills in the sea. Every time we got in the water, we had to drain our cylinders. That's why our learning curve was so steep! All of it was done with exceptional professionalism in a safe and relaxed atmosphere. Steve is a great instructor and I recommend this course. Steve will guide you to greatness if you are passionate about Sidemount PCB. read less

Yes Sidemount PCB started with the Cave diver, but you do not have to be a tech or cave diver to be able to dive on Sidemount PCB. PADI has a Side mount course in which you only carry one cylinder/tank on one of your sides instead of your back.

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Frequently Asked Questions

5-6 days
Rebreather training classes are typically 5-6 days long, but can be longer depending on a variety of factors such as the training agency, your local conditions, your instructor, and your ability to meet the class standards.

The PADI Rebreather/Advanced Rebreather Diver courses take four days to complete. The course fee is $1250, which includes books and rental.

332.35 m
Hello and welcome to the Officially Amazing universe. Ahmed Gabr. Ahmed, 41, of Egypt, has broken the record for the deepest SCUBA dive, diving 332.35 m (1,090 ft 4.5 in) in the Red Sea off the coast of Dahab.