Theory and Knowledge Component

At Dive Subculture Technical, we’ve designed the theory and knowledge section to be both flexible and engaging, divided into two parts:

• E-learning (from home)
• In-person Theory Class at the Resort

Through SSI’s online training platform, you can complete the academic portion at your own pace, fitting it into your schedule whenever convenient. The interactive system will guide you through key diving concepts, including buoyancy control, the effects of pressure, equipment setup and usage, underwater hand signals, and dive planning. With videos, quizzes, and review exercises, you’ll build a solid foundation of knowledge before entering the water.

Once you’ve completed the e-learning, we’ll schedule a Theory Session at our Dive Center. Here, our experienced instructors will address any questions, expand on key topics, and provide hands-on guidance to help you apply what you’ve learned. This preparation ensures you’re ready and confident for the pool training and open water dives ahead. Dive Subculture Technical works closely with Diver Gems to deliver high-quality training and an unforgettable dive experience.

Confined Water Training – Mastering the Essentials

At Dive Subculture Technical, the confined water session is where theory meets practice, allowing you to develop essential scuba skills in a controlled, safe environment before venturing into the open sea. With personalized guidance from our expert instructors and the support of Diver Gems, you’ll build your confidence while familiarizing yourself with your gear and the underwater world.

During this session, you’ll not only practice assembling your equipment but also gain hands-on experience with key skills, including:

• Equipment Assembly and Familiarization
• Weight Adjustment for Proper Buoyancy Control
• Breathing Underwater Using a Regulator
• Mask and Regulator Clearing Techniques
• Buddy Checks to Ensure Safe Dives
• Proper Water Entries and Exits
• Ascent and Descent Techniques with Equalization
• Mastering Buoyancy Control for Comfortable Diving
• Underwater Communication Using Hand Signals
• Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA)
• Surface Skills, Including Equipment Removal and Replacement

This structured training will ensure you feel comfortable and prepared to dive into open water. Our small instructor-to-student ratio allows for focused, hands-on instruction, making sure you master these core skills at your own pace.

What to Bring?

• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Light lunch and water
• Goggles for the swim test (optional)

With Dive Subculture Technical and Diver Gems by your side, you’ll leave this session feeling confident, safe, and excited for the open-water dives ahead. This is your time to build the foundations of lifelong diving skills in a supportive and engaging environment!

Open Water Dives – Applying Your Skills in the Ocean

The open water sessions with Dive Subculture Technical are where all your training comes to life. Guided by our expert instructors, with the support of Diver Gems, you’ll apply everything you’ve learned in the pool to real-world diving conditions. These dives are designed to build your confidence, hone your skills, and introduce you to the stunning underwater world of Malapascua.

During your open water dives, you’ll practice essential techniques, including:

• Equipment Assembly and Pre-Dive Checks

• Executing Buddy Checks for Safety

• Proper Water Entries and Exits from Shore or Boat

• Controlled Ascent and Descent Techniques

• Buoyancy Control to Navigate Reefs and Marine Environments

• Equalization Techniques to Manage Pressure at Depth

• Mask Clearing and Regulator Recovery Underwater

• Communicating Using Hand Signals with Your Buddy and Instructor

• Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA)

• Surface Skills and Emergency Procedures

Each of your four open water dives will gradually increase in complexity, giving you the chance to demonstrate and refine your skills while exploring Malapascua’s vibrant reefs. You’ll experience the thrill of breathing underwater, encountering marine life like sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and—if you’re lucky—a thresher shark!

What to Bring?

• Swimwear

• Sunscreen

• Towel

• Light lunch and water

• Dive logbook (if you already have one)

These dives are about more than just practicing skills—they’re an opportunity to discover the beauty of the ocean firsthand. With Dive Subculture Technical and Diver Gems, you’ll receive personalized training, ensuring you feel safe and supported throughout your experience. This is your chance to explore the wonders of the sea and complete your journey to becoming a certified SSI Open Water Diver!