Research Diver Specialty
Turn every dive into an opportunity for discovery! Learn underwater research techniques, marine data collection, and scientific observation skills with Stuart Scuba’s SDI Research Diver Specialty course.
Why Choose Stuart Scuba? Develop practical underwater research skills with experienced SDI instructors and small-group training limited to 4 divers per instructor. Our emphasis on safety, precision, and environmental responsibility prepares you to explore the underwater world with a scientific perspective
Availability: Contact us for booking information
Course Description
Dive with a purpose! Discover how scuba diving supports marine science, conservation, and underwater exploration. Learn practical research techniques, including underwater surveys, species identification, data recording, and environmental monitoring. Develop the skills to collect accurate observations while maintaining safe diving practices and protecting fragile marine ecosystems. Earn your SDI Research Diver Specialty certification and contribute to a greater understanding of our underwater world.
Price $295.00 per diver
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 18 years, 15 with parental consent
- Certification: SDI Open Water Scuba Diver or equivalent
- Minimum logged dives: No additional logged dives required
- Completed SDI paperwork and medical questionnaire
Duration
- Approximately 1–2 days, including:
- SDI eLearning and instructor review
- Research planning and data collection techniques
- 2 open-water research training dives
What’s Included
- SDI specialty eLearning
- Professional instructor-led training
- 2 open-water research training dives
- SDI digital certification upon successful completion
- Tanks and weights
Not Included
- Personal mask, snorkel, fins, and boots
- Equipment: BCD, regulator, dive computer, and wetsuit
- Specialized research equipment, including measuring device and slate
- Surface Market Buoy (SMB)
- Boat fees unless specifically included
- Transportation and personal expenses
What You’ll Learn
- Scientific diving principles and research methods
- Underwater survey and observation techniques
- Marine species identification and documentation
- Accurate data collection and recording
- Transect and quadrat survey techniques
- Environmental monitoring and conservation
- Research dive planning and buddy procedures
- Minimizing environmental impact during research activities
Certification
Complete the required knowledge development, practical skills, and 2 open-water dives to earn your SDI Research Diver Specialty certification, meeting current SDI standards.
