BSAC’s Advanced Wreck Diver Course builds on the skills you learned in the Wreck Diver course and takes you, in two modules through semi-overhead wreck diving into full overhead wreck penetration.
This course is aimed at wreck diving – although some techniques are similar, it is not a cave diving course.
This course is aimed at divers who wish to explore the interiors of wrecks where they may be in complete darkness and unable to make a direct ascent to the surface during the penetration part of the dive.
To enrol on the Advanced Wreck Diver course, you must have already successfully completed BSAC Sports Diver (or equivalent) and BSAC Wreck Diver (or equivalent). You also need to be able to demonstrate buoyancy and trim to Gold standard.
The use of twin-set or CCR is mandatory for the course and proof of this experience will need to be provided. You should have experience carrying backup / bailout gas.
Over five days, you will go over and build upon the skills of linework and signalling that you learned during the Wreck Diver course. This course is made up of five theory lessons and three dry practical sessions, before completing a minimum of seven dives.
During the first module, your skills will be examined before you progress to the second (full overhead) module.
The experience dives will take you through a series of line laying and following exercises in zero visibility simulation, rescue in an overhead situation and extends your knowledge of signalling methods and planning for this type of diving.
On successful completion of the course, you will have the knowledge and skills to take part in and help plan full wreck penetration dives within the limitation of your diving grade.
You will have some experience of diving as part of a team, using lines which at times may be your only connection to the exit point of a wreck in reduced or zero visibility. You should also understand that this type of diving is only undertaken in the company of other divers qualified in overhead environment diving.
You could do this course at a regional event or local club. Not all clubs run Advanced Wreck Diving courses, so please check if you are interested.
Alternatively, book your place on a scheduled Advanced Wreck Diving course online now.
Not a BSAC member? You can do this course by joining BSAC directly or joining via a local club. Find a club.
Students will be given a pack of supporting learning materials. You will also need full CCR or twin-set equipment suitable for local conditions, a delayed surface marker buoy and a means of recording notes underwater. Wreck reels with 50m of line will be provided.
Your next steps – developing your skills
After completing Advanced Wreck Diver and consolidating your skills, your options for diving will expand.
- Progress to tech diving with MOD 1 AP Vision CCR Diver or Sport Mixed Gas Diver (50m) and enjoy the benefits of reduced gas density and narcosis, which ensure greater comfort and enjoyment at these extended depths.
- You could develop specific skills to expand your diving interests further. Imagine understanding more about marine life, driving a dive boat or becoming an underwater photographer. Check out the Skill Development Courses (SDCs) you can get involved in.
- You could sign up for BSAC’s Instructor Foundation Course (IFC) to become an Assistant Diving Instructor, or develop your existing skills as an Open Water Instructor, or above, to become a Twin-set Diver Instructor.
