Boat Diver
The SDI Boat Diver Course at OCD Divers teaches you how to safely and confidently dive from a variety of boats used in both inland and open‑water environments. You will learn boat procedures, entries and exits, safety protocols, and how to prepare for boat‑based diving. Training is conducted at The Scuba Ranch using simulated boat‑entry platforms or offered during OCD Divers trips when boat access is available.
To register, select a class from the list below. If you see the message “Availability: Contact us for booking information,” click here to contact us about scheduling your class: Contact Us.
Availability: In Stock
BOAT DIVER
What You’ll Learn
This course focuses on practical boat diving knowledge and procedures:
- Types of dive boats: Features, layouts, and how they affect dive planning.
- Boat safety: Briefings, emergency equipment, and safe movement on deck.
- Entries and exits: Giant stride, controlled seated entries, and ladder use.
- Boat etiquette: Gear setup, stowage, and working efficiently in shared space.
- Navigation from a boat: Anchored, moored, and drift diving considerations.
- Planning boat dives: Conditions, currents, site selection, and logistics.
Program Overview
The Boat Diver Course is ideal for divers preparing for travel, liveaboards, or any diving conducted from a vessel. Skills may be practiced at The Scuba Ranch using controlled entry platforms or completed during OCD Divers trips when boat diving is available.
Prerequisites: SDI Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent.
Minimum age: 18, or 10 with parental consent.
Equipment needed: A complete scuba kit appropriate for the dive environment. Additional gear such as surface signaling devices may be recommended depending on the dive site and conditions.
Where Training Takes Place
Boat Diver training is offered at two locations:
- The Scuba Ranch — simulated boat‑entry platforms for controlled skill development.
- OCD Divers Trips — real‑world boat diving environments where divers apply skills on actual vessels.
This combination ensures divers gain experience in both controlled and open‑water settings.
Course Video
What Comes Next
After completing the Boat Diver Course, divers often continue with specialties such as:
This specialty also counts toward the SDI Master Scuba Diver pathway.
