Confidence. Redundancy. Better decision-making underwater.
Let’s clear this up right away. Self-Reliant does not mean solo.
The PADI Self-Reliant Diver course is about becoming a stronger, more capable diver by learning how to plan conservatively, manage risk, and handle problems independently if you need to. The result is not reckless independence. The result is a calmer, more prepared diver who is also a better buddy.
If you want to sharpen your awareness, build redundancy into your diving, and stop outsourcing all responsibility to the person next to you, this course is designed for you.
Who should take this course?
This course is a great fit for experienced divers who want to increase their margin of safety and self-sufficiency without abandoning the buddy system.
It is especially popular with:
- PADI Professionals (Divemasters and Instructors)
- Photographers and videographers who regularly become task-loaded
- Divemaster candidates building independence and awareness
- Recreational divers considering the transition toward technical diving
To enroll, you must be at least 18 years old, certified as a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or higher), have at least 100 logged dives, and successfully complete a skills assessment with a PADI Self-Reliant Diver Specialty Instructor.
If you want the official PADI perspective, you can also read PADI’s take on the Self-Reliant Diver course.
If you’re unsure about readiness or prerequisites, you can reach out before booking.
What will you learn?
The Self-Reliant Diver course starts by reinforcing the value of the buddy system, then builds the skills and mindset needed to remain safe and composed if that system breaks down.
During this course, you will learn:
- The role and limitations of the buddy system
- The philosophy and decision-making behind self-reliant diving
- Common failure points and how to manage them calmly
- The importance of equipment redundancy and how to configure it correctly
- Dive planning, gas management, and conservative profiles
This is not about pushing limits. It’s about widening your safety buffer and making better choices underwater.
How can you start learning now?
The PADI Self-Reliant Diver course is taught privately so we can tailor the training to your experience level, diving environment, and goals.
Contact Dive With Frank to discuss readiness, scheduling, and next steps. We’ll confirm prerequisites, review equipment needs, and plan your training dives.
What scuba gear will you use?
In addition to your standard basic scuba equipment, Self-Reliant training requires additional redundancy and signaling capability.
You will need:
- DSMB and reel or spool
- Redundant gas source (pony bottle and regulator)
- Dive computer
- Surface signaling devices
- At least one cutting tool
- Underwater slate and pencil
If you’re unsure about configuration or sizing, we’ll sort that out before training begins.
How long will it take?
The course includes one extended academic session followed by three open water dives, typically completed over a single day depending on conditions and logistics.
Sign up
The PADI Self-Reliant Diver course is taught privately at a location and schedule that works for you.
Booking and pricing are handled through WeTravel.
If you have questions about readiness or whether this course is a good fit, reach out before booking. That conversation matters.