Just hit my 100th dive—besides diving, what’s next for skill development?

[NothingClever]

Intro to Tech (TDI) is all about twinset.

If you’re in decent shape, you’ll dive an AL80 twinset like a single tank in no time.

Advanced Nitrox and Decompression Procedures (TDI) will remove the training wheels.

Here’s a guide I made for my own development. I made it because I became disgusted with the shameless plugs for diluted courses and the incessant emphasis to “join the elite” and become an instructor after only 50 dives. I just wanted to become a really skilled diver, not an instructor.

 

[inquis]

I’m considering Intro to Tech and Advanced Nitrox, and looking for an opportunity to layer doubles on top.

Intro to Tech should include doubles, long hose, trim, and propulsion.

 

[34109411]

But a rock solid foundation is crucial to be any good at whatever you want to do. Especially if you're interested in tech or cave, like OP mentioned.
So yeah, go for fundies. You'll learn a lot, regardless where you want to go.

oh gosh i am so tired to read about GUE does this GUE does that i think i will go sign up for a class and make my mind. (so if it's really good i will tell you...if not also.)

 

[christ0phe]

Intro to Tech (TDI) is all about twinset.

If you’re in decent shape, you’ll dive an AL80 twinset like a single tank in no time.

Advanced Nitrox and Decompression Procedures (TDI) will remove the training wheels.

Here’s a guide I made for my own development. I made it because I became disgusted with the shameless plugs for diluted courses and the incessant emphasis to “join the elite” and become an instructor after only 50 dives. I just wanted to become a really skilled diver, not an instructor.

View attachment 888958

Thanks!

 

[34109411]

Thanks!

i will add underwater navigation to your list.

 

[Cdncoldwater]

Late to the discussion but I would highly recommend Rescue and Solo diver. The solo introduces you to better and more detailed dive planing, alternative air source, good navigation skills etc. Regarding BM doubles or side mount; I do side mount as I have back issues. It also is an easy configuration for solo and future tec diving, caves etc. I’m actually considering buying a less capable one for travel and ditching BM all together as you can dive single in side mount. I currently dive mainly cold water in a dry suit with a rare trip to warm waters. I’m in the 150s for dives and did solo at 100; now looking at AN/DP or similar as my next steps.

 

[DANDM]

Some "dry" skills might be handy too. Can't go wrong with a couple of first aid courses, including oxygen provider (can be part of a Rescue diver course).

Not essential, but can be interesting, may include:
- A boat driving licence/course, if that's relevant to your diving community and local regulations.
- Learning to service your dive gear, if you are mechanically inclined and have access to a course and service kits for your gear. Great way to understand how your gear works and how to best maintain it.
- Read some books on diving theory, such as Deco for Divers or Technical Diving: an Introduction.
- Other courses like SSI's Science of Diving, Nitrox or Gareth's Human Factors.

 

[Chrisk919]

NC charters take you out 1-2 hours to a site, dump you in the water in pairs, and say see ya later. Thankfully the charter season is about to open back up, so I’ll be right back at it!

Another NC diver! I wouldn't say they "dump you and say bye" but there are certainly some vacation-only divers that would not do well on NC boats.

And it's not that the season really closes (I know Instigator and Salty Dog had some spearo/shark teeth charters through the winter), but who wants to freeze during the SI in Nov->Mar, lol.

 

[PaulCH]

Congrats! I say go for another 100 dives! I highly recommend a trip to Spain, specifically the Canary Islands. El Hierro is one of my favorite dive spots!

or some shark dives in Jupiter:

 

[Snoweman]

I'd suggest getting your shark riding PADI specialty

Where do I sign up for that one????