PADI Sidemount Diver (Recreational)

Sidemount diving brings balance, comfort and efficiency. Many people find sidemount tanks to be much more comfortable and easier to handle – especially since the tanks can only be attached after entering the water. Sidemount can also improve trim and buoyancy control , and is especially suitable for those who want more balance, ergonomics or longer dives (depending on the package and conditions).

What will you learn?

In the course you will learn in practice:

• to assemble and adjust sidemount equipment (harness/BCD, hoses, attachments)
• to attach the tanks in the water and operate smoothly at entrances/exits
• adjust weighting and trim weights for optimal trim
• to move efficiently, e.g. with a frog kick
• master a two-cylinder set: regulator changes, gas management and basic troubleshooting
• to remove the tank and swim with it cylinder first (exercises and control)

PADI eLearning + in the water with an instructor

Theory is done at your own pace with PADI eLearning. You start in the water in controlled open water / pool conditions to ensure you have the setup / configuration and basic skills. This is followed by open water practice dives where you will hone your new skills, buoyancy control and sidemount-related problem-solving situations.

Note: There will be separate costs for equipment rental if you do not come with your own sidemount set. We will contact you about rental rigs and agree on their costs.

Who is it suitable for?

• You want more comfort and ergonomics – especially if a traditional backmount feels heavy or awkward
• You want better trim position and buoyancy control and “lighter” movement underwater
• You are curious to learn new equipment configurations and develop techniques
• You want skills that will also be useful in further paths (e.g. more demanding configurations later)