Classified Diving - Adaptive Open Water
The SSI Classified (Adaptive) Diving Program at the Dive Center provides inclusive scuba training designed for individuals with autism, physical limitations, and sensory conditions. Through personalized instruction and adaptive techniques, this program creates a safe, supportive path to scuba certification and underwater exploration.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
What is the SSI Classified Diving Program?
The SSI Classified Diving Program provides adaptive scuba training for individuals with limited mobility and/or sensory conditions. This program allows participants to experience scuba diving with the support of one or more Classified Dive Buddies or a Classified Dive Professional. With proper medical clearance from a physician, individuals can safely begin their training in a pool or confined water environment, with the opportunity to progress to open water diving.
What Does the Program Involve?
This student-focused program is designed for individuals who may not be able to meet all of the autonomous skill requirements of a traditional Open Water Diver certification. SSI Classified Diving Instructors are specially trained to adapt course materials and teaching techniques to meet each student’s individual needs.
All participants are introduced to the full range of Open Water Diver skills. However, based on each diver’s abilities, techniques may be modified and assistance may be provided when needed to ensure safety and success throughout the training process.
Classified Diver Levels
The SSI Classified Diving Program includes three levels of certification based on a diver’s abilities:
- Level 1: Must dive with one certified Classified Dive Buddy
- Level 2: Must dive with two certified Classified Dive Buddies
- Level 3: Must dive with two certified Classified Dive Buddies and one Classified Dive Professional
The Classified Dive Buddy certification allows SSI Stress & Rescue Divers (or higher) to safely dive with Classified Divers at any level.
More than just a training program, SSI Classified Diving builds a supportive community of divers, buddies, and professionals—creating opportunities for individuals of all abilities to safely experience the freedom and excitement of the underwater world.
At Arizona Dive Center, we are proud to support adaptive diving and create opportunities for more people to discover the life-changing experience of scuba diving.
