Unusual scuba certifications

[knfmn]

The idea for this thread came about after I stumbled across the SSI Indoor diver certification. That and the SSI Mine Diver speciality got me thinking. What are some of the oddball/unusual certifications that you know of? This seems like another way that one could drop thousands of dollars, by travelling around and taking all kinds of specialty certifications. Ok, let me know the ones you're aware of...

Kristopher

 

[Ste Wart]

I found on a website recently, and I kid you not PADI Cave Diver (not Cavern, full cave!!)

IANTD have Underwater Theatrical Performer and Advanced Sidemount (Sump Diver) and No Mount diver???

 

[acrofrag]

I don't know if they still do, but PADI used to have a golf ball diver specialty.

 

[acrofrag]

It appears it is still out there in some places: Education: Golf Ball Diver

 

[knfmn]

PADI seems to have realized that they were missing out on a lot of money by not offering more technical classes, and seem to be intent upon recouping those losses.

When you're certified as an Underwater Theatrical Performer, are you allowed to do No Mount dives as well?? I also saw that they have a "Limited Mine Diver" certification. I can't dig up more info about it, but I'm wondering if that's equivalent to a limited Cave Cert?

Kristopher

 

[knfmn]

I don't know if they still do, but PADI used to have a golf ball diver specialty.

There are some unusual hazzards in golf ball diving....chemical run-off from the courses, gators (anyone see Happy Gilmore?) and, most importantly, 80 year old men driving golf balls at your head!

Kristopher

 

[Scott]

I found on a website recently, and I kid you not PADI Cave Diver (not Cavern, full cave!!)

Would that be the PADI full cave cert by Sheck Exley in the 70's or the more recent DSAT distinctive specialty?

 

[acrofrag]

Hey, I build arms and legs for a living. I have seen Happy Gilmore, Kingpin and Deuce Bigalow many times! I know several golf ball divers, would never want to do it! Not saying it is not a tough deal, just odd. Then again, so is what I do!

 

[knfmn]

The post about PADI cave diving certification got me wondering about it, so I poked around a little. It looks like a legit course. You've got to work your a$$ off to make it through ok. I know that a lot of people have serious beefs with PADI, but this one seems like a good-un.

Kristopher

 

[Aigtbootbp]

I want to get certified in underwater cave theatrics, golf ball juggler w/split fins. Is there a cert for that???