The PADI Adaptive Support Diver course is designed to help certified divers learn how to support dive buddies with physical or mental challenges. This course focuses on understanding individual needs, adapting dive practices, and working as a thoughtful, effective team.

Adaptive Support Diver is not about medical care or therapy. It’s about learning how to prepare, communicate, and assist in ways that promote comfort, confidence, and safety for everyone involved. Divers learn how small adjustments in planning, equipment handling, and teamwork can make a meaningful difference underwater.

At Space City Dive Center, this course emphasizes respect, real-world application, and practical skills you can use immediately. Whether you’re diving with a friend or family member, preparing for professional training, or simply want to be a stronger dive buddy, Adaptive Support Diver builds skills that matter.

What You’ll Learn

• Awareness of physical and mental challenges that may affect diving
• Effective communication before, during, and after dives
• Assisting with equipment and dive preparation
• Adapting dive plans to support individual needs
• Promoting safe and inclusive diving practices

Course Structure

• Time Commitment: Can be completed in one day
• Confined Water: 1 session
• Open Water: 1 Open Water Workshop

Who This Course Is For

Adaptive Support Diver is ideal for certified divers who want to be better dive buddies, support adaptive divers, or build stronger teamwork skills. It’s also a great option for divers considering Divemaster or other leadership training.

Prerequisites

• Minimum Age: 15
• Minimum Certification Level: Open Water Diver

Equipment Requirements

• Space City Dive Center provides all major scuba equipment, including BCD, regulator, dive computer, exposure protection, tanks, and weights.
• Students are required to provide their own personal gear, including mask, snorkel, fins, and boots. Rental packages are available if needed.
• Lake entry fees, when applicable, are not included.

What’s Included

• Instructor-led Adaptive Support Diver training
• Confined water and open water training sessions
• Use of provided scuba equipment
• Adaptive Support Diver certification upon completion