It happens: People accidentally drop things from docks, off boats or even while scuba diving. If you’ve ever lost something in the water and wanted to go find it, then the Search and Recovery Diver Specialty course is for you. There are effective ways to search for objects underwater that increase your chances of success. And there are good and better methods to bring up small, large or just awkward items. Search and recovery can be challenging, but a whole lot of fun. Gathering information and resources, then carefully planning a search are the first important steps you learn. During four scuba dives you’ll practice:
-Swimming search patterns using your compass and natural navigation
-Locating large and small objects using various search patterns
-Using a lift bag for large or heavy objects, plus other recovery methods
-Planning a search operation based on facts gathered about a lost object prior to the dive
Prerequisites: Advanced Open Water Divers who are at least 12 years old can enroll in the Search and Recover Diver course. Open Water Divers with a Underwater Navigator certification also qualify.
Class price includes:
-All instruction
-4 open water dives
-A comprehensive package of study materials and/or online course program
-Certification fees
*Course fee does not include any other snorkel or scuba equipment. Students must provide their own personal gear (masks, fins, snorkels, boots) which are available for purchase at the dive store and our friendly staff can professionally fit you for these items, if needed. BC, Regulator with dive computer, and wetsuits are available to rent at a discounted daily rate for students enrolled in our Search and Recovery Diver course. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation and personal items (swim suit, towel, etc).
Additional Gear Required: Pencil/Slate, compass. Also recommended, a dive light, SMB, and line or reel.
Medical: Prior to taking this scuba class, you will need to complete a Continuing Education/Medical form. Please review this form and determine if you are eligible to take a scuba course or if you will need a doctor to sign-off on your form prior to starting the class. This information is required to enroll or begin any diver training.
Diving Location Options: For completing your course locally, join us at one of three locations: Dutch Springs in Bethlehem, PA; Lake Phoenix in Rawlings, VA; or Hydes Quarry in Westminster, MD. Alternatively visit our Travel Page to join us on one of our fantastic trips to a more exotic locale.
Hydes Quarry (add $50 for weekend pass)
Close to home
5-10 ft. visibility, stair access to/from water
No frills and no facilities. Training only.
***Camp & Dive Weekend **Recommended** (add $175)
Dutch Springs or Lake Phoenix, 3-4 hour drive
30-40 ft. visibility, large training platforms, easy shore access to/from water
Bath houses with toilets and hot showers, concession stands, and gift shop
Fee includes Scuba Park entrance fee, camping fees for 2 nights, all meals, snacks, and drinks, and unlimited air fills!
Student arrival and setup Friday evening, training conducted Saturday/Sunday
Cancellations or Rescheduling: Cancellations or rescheduling require 48-hour notice. You may reschedule one time at no charge, after that any further adjustments will incur a $50 rescheduling fee per change. Cancellations are subject to a $75 cancellation fee.
Course Time: This course is conducted on site on any of our Open Water weekends. In water training is generally held from 8am-2pm both Saturday and Sunday but may vary based on the course, training location, and instructor scheduling. Studies must be completed by class time.
Note on Rental Gear: For Camp-n-Dive (Dutch Springs) Weekends, rental gear may be picked up 12pm – 7pm Thursday, the week of the event. For Hydes Quarry Weekends, rental gear may be picked up 12pm – 7pm Friday, the week of the event.
Course Dates, pricing and other details: See Calendar Here
Make DAN Your Dive Buddy – Every Dive! Nautilus Aquatics Referral Code: 1486652 Divers Alert Network
