The PADI Wreck Diver Specialty Course offers divers the opportunity to delve into the exploration of sunken ships, aircraft, and other submerged structures. Whether these wrecks were purposefully sunk as artificial reefs or lost due to unforeseen events, they provide a captivating glimpse into history and marine life. This course emphasizes safe diving practices, navigation techniques, and responsible interaction with wreck environments.

Prerequisites

To enroll in the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty Course, you must:

• Age Requirement: Be at least 15 years old.
• Certification: Hold a PADI Adventure Diver certification or an equivalent from another recognized diving organization.

Course Structure

The course is structured to combine theoretical knowledge with practical diving experience:

1. Knowledge Development: Engage in self-study or instructor-led sessions covering topics such as wreck research, safety considerations, and dive planning.
2. Open Water Dives: Complete four dives under the supervision of a PADI Instructor, focusing on:

• Surveying and mapping wrecks.
• Practicing specialized finning techniques to minimize silt disturbance.
• Using lines and reels for safe navigation and limited penetration.
• Identifying and avoiding potential hazards.

Skills and Knowledge Acquired

Upon completion, you’ll be proficient in:

• Techniques for exploring shipwrecks while avoiding common hazards.
• Researching and understanding the history of various wrecks.
• Proper use and maintenance of wreck diving equipment.
• Planning and executing dives that may involve limited penetration into wrecks.

Equipment Requirements

For the course, you’ll need:

• Standard scuba equipment (mask, fins, regulator, BCD, etc.).
• Dive light and backup light for visibility inside wrecks.
• Underwater slate and compass for mapping and navigation.
• Line and reel for practicing wreck penetration techniques.

Certification Outcome

Successfully completing the course earns you the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty certification. This certification counts toward the prestigious PADI Master Scuba Diver rating and equips you with the skills to explore wrecks safely and responsibly.

Course Name

PADI_Wreck_Diver

Included in package

PADI Wreck Diver Manual PADI Wreck Diver DVD 4 training dives Use of all dive gear Immediately processing your certification card

Other information

The fun part of the PADI Wreck Diver course is visiting wrecks, unlocking mysteries and starting to gain the knowledge and experience that allows you to see things that others overlook. Sometimes, only the trained, experienced eye recognizes that a small hole or open door likely caused the vessel’s demise. St. Croix has 5 wrecks that are located with 100 yards of each other making diving on 2 to 3 wrecks on the same dive easy.