Be prepared when the unexpected happens. The SDI Solo Diver Course is designed for experienced divers who want to build true self-reliance underwater. Whether you’re intentionally diving alone for photography, diving with a less-experienced buddy, or simply want the confidence to handle separation calmly, this course develops the planning, mindset, and redundancy required to dive responsibly.
Solo diving is not about pushing limits—it’s about conservative decision-making, disciplined preparation, and personal accountability. Instead of relying on the traditional buddy system as your primary safety layer, you’ll learn how to structure your dives so that you are fully capable of managing yourself within clearly defined limits.
What you’ll learn:
- How to plan conservative solo dives with clearly defined gas, depth, and time limits.
- Risk assessment and hazard identification specific to self-reliant diving.
- Required redundant equipment configurations and proper assembly.
- Gas management strategies for independent diving.
- Procedures for handling common in-water problems without a buddy.
- How to establish personal limitations and decision triggers before entering the water.
How this course solves real diving concerns:
- Worried about buddy separation? Develop the skills to remain calm, structured, and self-sufficient.
- Diving with a child or newer diver? Become the stable, prepared diver others can rely on.
- Focused on photography or video? Reduce task loading by increasing your preparedness and redundancy.
- Want greater independence? Build the discipline and systems that make self-reliant diving safer and more controlled.
Being one of SDI’s most respected specialty courses, Solo Diver emphasizes accident prevention, proper procedures, and personal responsibility. You will also learn the additional equipment required for solo diving and how to properly configure and use it.
This course is for divers who meet SDI prerequisites (minimum age 21, Advanced certification or equivalent, and 100 logged dives) and who are ready to take ownership of their planning and preparedness.
By the end of the course, you won’t just be certified—you’ll think differently about risk, limits, and responsibility underwater. If you value control, calm execution, and structured dive planning, SDI Solo Diver is the next logical step in your progression.
Take responsibility for your diving—become the diver who is prepared.
Course prerequisites
- Meet SDI prerequisites: Age 21+, SDI Advanced Diver (or equivalent), and 100 logged dives
- Provide proof of certification and logged dives before training is scheduled
- Arrive with required redundant equipment (or arrange rentals in advance)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SDI Solo Diver Course?
The SDI Solo Diver course is an advanced specialty designed to train experienced divers in self-reliant diving. Rather than depending on the traditional buddy system as your primary safety layer, you will learn structured dive planning, redundancy systems, and conservative decision-making so you can manage yourself responsibly underwater.
Who is this course designed for?
This course is for experienced divers who want increased independence, improved risk management, and stronger self-sufficiency. It is especially valuable for underwater photographers, divers who frequently experience buddy separation, or divers who want to be the most prepared person in the water.
Do I need to be an advanced diver to take this course?
Yes. Per SDI standards, you must be at least 21 years old, hold an Advanced certification (or equivalent), and provide proof of at least 100 logged dives before beginning training.
Is solo diving dangerous?
Any form of diving carries risk. Solo diving requires a higher level of discipline, planning, and redundancy because you are intentionally removing the buddy safety layer. This course focuses on conservative planning, strict personal limits, and accident prevention—not pushing boundaries.
What equipment is required for the course?
Solo diving requires redundant life-support systems and backup equipment. You will learn proper configuration and assembly of this equipment during the course. If you do not own the required redundancy systems, contact Scuba Adventures at 972-423-3483 to discuss rental or configuration options.
What skills will I learn in this course?
You will learn advanced dive planning, gas management for self-reliant diving, risk assessment, redundant equipment configuration, emergency self-management procedures, and how to establish clear personal limitations before entering the water.
How long does the Solo Diver course take to complete?
The course typically includes academic review and open water training dives completed over scheduled training days. Specific timelines depend on class format and scheduling. You may also choose a Date-To-Be-Determined option if you need flexibility.
Will this certification allow me to dive alone anywhere?
No certification overrides local regulations, dive operator policies, or site-specific rules. Many boats and destinations still require buddy diving. The Solo Diver certification demonstrates training in self-reliant techniques but does not grant permission to ignore local requirements.
Is this course about replacing the buddy system?
No. This course teaches you to be capable and self-sufficient. Even when diving with a buddy, the mindset and planning discipline you gain will make you a stronger, safer dive partner.
How will this course improve my overall diving?
You will think more conservatively about limits, plan dives with greater structure, manage gas more intentionally, and configure equipment with purpose. Many divers report increased confidence, lower stress, and improved situational awareness—even when returning to traditional buddy diving.
How do I take this course?
- Click Button Below To View Courses
- Locate the dates and click "Add to Cart"
- Complete Your Contact Information and Payment
- Receive Your E-code via Email and begin your training immediately!