Academics

The academic portion of the SSI Night & Limited Visibility course equips you with the knowledge required to safely navigate low-light and murky conditions. Using SSI’s interactive e-learning platform, you’ll study topics such as:

• Light management techniques for underwater illumination
• Night dive planning to ensure safety and smooth execution
• Communication signals using dive lights and hand signals
• Navigation skills for maintaining orientation in limited visibility
• Physiological and psychological aspects of night diving, including managing stress

This self-paced learning ensures you’re prepared for practical sessions with videos, quizzes, and real-world scenarios to reinforce key concepts.

Confined Water Sessions (Optional Workshop)

While the SSI Night & Limited Visibility course does not require confined water sessions, we offer an optional workshop to build familiarity with low-visibility conditions. In a controlled environment, you’ll practice:

• Using dive lights effectively for communication and illumination
• Executing proper entries and exits at night or in poor visibility
• Practicing buddy protocols to stay connected underwater
• Maintaining buoyancy and avoiding disorientation

This optional session allows you to develop comfort with the equipment and conditions before heading into open water.

Open Water Dives

The open water sessions give you the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge and develop your skills in real-world environments. Key skills you’ll practice during these dives include:

• Navigating in darkness or limited visibility using natural and compass-based navigation
• Communicating with light signals for effective buddy coordination
• Maintaining spatial awareness to avoid disorientation underwater
• Managing stress and staying calm during night dives
• Spotting nocturnal marine life and observing behavior unique to low-light environments

These dives take place at Malapascua’s stunning reefs, offering the chance to explore the ocean at night, where creatures such as octopuses, shrimp, and bioluminescent organisms emerge. The hands-on experience ensures you’ll leave the course confident in your ability to dive safely and effectively in both night and low-visibility conditions.