SDI/TDI Sidemount Diver

Course Details

This transformative programme teaches you to dive with cylinders mounted at your sides rather than on your back – offering unparalleled flexibility, redundancy and comfort. Originally developed for cave diving, sidemount configuration has become popular across all diving disciplines for its streamlined profile, improved gas management and reduced strain on your body.

You’ll learn to configure and dive with independent cylinders, mastering skills like in-water cylinder attachment, gas switching and emergency procedures specific to sidemount diving. The course adapts to your diving goals, whether you’re preparing for technical training, seeking better mobility for photography, or simply wanting a more comfortable gear configuration.

Course Essentials:

• Prerequisites: SDI Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
• Minimum Age: 18 (15-17 with parental consent)
• Dive Requirements: 3+ open water dives demonstrating proficiency
• Equipment: Sidemount harness, dual regulators, appropriate cylinders

Sidemount Reality:

While offering many advantages, sidemount requires different skills than traditional backmount. The course emphasises gradual skill development – you’ll begin with land drills before progressing to confined and open water sessions to build confidence with your new configuration.