Sidemount Diver
DEFY GRAVITY
The RAID Sidemount Diver course is suitable for both recreational and technical divers. For recreational divers and underwater photographers or videographers, this configuration offers additional safety, improved buoyancy, and a stylish setup. While many tech divers may already have this certification, those who have only used a Twinset for their tech dives will find this the next logical step.
While this course is not a technical diving certification, it incorporates many tech-influenced procedures and techniques. This is because the sidemount configuration was originally developed for cave divers. Its advantages over single mount back gas include the ability to fit into tighter spaces and make adjustments underwater on the fly. Additionally, the redundancy factor provides divers with peace of mind, knowing they have a separate, independent system ready to deploy in an emergency.
The Sidemount Course consists of 1 confined water session and 4 open water dives.
Students will learn:
- Equipment setup and proper hose routing
- Don and doff each tank individually
- Establish good trim and propulsion techniques
- Gas management and regulator switches
- Air share and emergency procedures
Please Note
For divers already familiar with the backplate/wing and long hose, short hose configurations, transitioning to sidemount will feel natural after adjusting to the additional tank and isolated first stages. If this is your first time using anything other than the traditional recreational configuration, your instructor will assist you with the adjustment.
COST
15,500THB
Prerequisites & Extra Info
This course can be customized by combining it with other RAID training programs to suit individual student requirements and goals. The Sidemount Diver training can be integrated with any recreational course or with specialized programs such as technical diving courses like Advanced Wreck, Deco 40/50.
Students need to be at least 10 years old and hold a minimum certification of Open Water 20 to be eligible for sidemount. To qualify for combined training, students must meet all prerequisites and fulfill the required hours and minimum standards for both courses.
Step 1
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Online Study
Kick off your diving adventure the RAID WAY with dynamic FREe-learning before you even set foot on site.
Dive into the comprehensive manuals and engaging quizzes online to lay the groundwork for your course.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to set up your RAID profile and launch your next diving journey.
Step 2 -
Theory & Workshops
Upon arrival, guests will meet their instructor and fellow student divers for orientation and to complete any remaining paperwork.
Instructors will conduct an academic session in the classroom, covering the relevant theory and assigning homework. This will be followed by an equipment workshop, where students will learn about all necessary equipment, how to assemble it, and how to make adjustments to fit their body type and distribution of lead weights.
Step 3 -
Pool Training
Dive into our purpose-built training pool for confined water training. This immersive experience is your gateway to mastering the new configuration, honing your skills, and beginning to build solid muscle memory in a controlled environment.
Step 4 -
Open Water Dives
Put your skills to the test with four thrilling open water dives at sea. The first two dives will be at shallow dive sites to ensure a safe and comfortable start to your open water adventures.
On the following day, the final two dives will take place at more advanced dive sites, allowing you to continue refining your skills and revisiting any areas that need additional practice.
*Maximum depth will be according to your certification level.*
Flying After Diving?
Flying after your dives? Be sure to give yourself an 18-hour window after your final dive.
Need a place to stay? We are a beachfront diving resort! We offer rooms from mixed dorms, double bed rooms, family rooms, and bungalows for weekly or monthly rent! You can book a room here!
Please keep hydrated. Remember to drink plenty of water before and after your dives.
Bring sunscreen (preferably reef safe) and apply it an hour before entering the sea to protect marine life.
Why Choose Hydronauts?
RAID Instructors
Our experienced instructors are hand-picked, highly trained, and passionate about scuba diving. We tailor each course and dive to your unique needs.
Beachfront Diving Resort
Southwestern-facing property including a dive shop, hotel, training pool, cafe & restaurant, dive boat, and beach bar. We offer diving & accommodation packages for every budget.
Guaranteed Small Groups
We guarantee small groups of no more than four students to an instructor or dive guide so that you get the individual attention you deserve.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
We choose to dive and teach in Backplate & Wing BCD with a Long-hose, Short-hose regulator configuration favored by technical divers.
Dive Anywhere in the World
Upon completion of your RAID scuba diving course, you will be issued with an e-certification card that recognizes you as an internationally certified scuba diver.
Low Carbon Footprint
We make every effort to reduce our footprint and use of paper and plastic. All our course materials are hosted online giving you access for life.
