SDI Full Face Mask Diver
Develop the knowledge, equipment familiarity, and practical skills required to safely dive using a full face mask system
Duration
1 day, 2 dives
Max Depth
Within recreational no-decompression limits
Level
Advanced Recreational Speciality
Next Step
TDI Intro to Tech / ERDI Full Face Mask Ops
Overview
The SDI Full Face Mask Diver course trains divers in the procedures, knowledge, and skills required to safely dive while using a full face mask.
Full face masks offer several advantages over conventional mask and regulator systems, including:
- increased diver safety,
- facial protection,
- improved communications capability,
- and the ability to use corrective lenses within certain systems.
Training focuses on:
- equipment familiarisation,
- mask configuration,
- communications considerations,
- emergency procedures,
- and underwater problem solving.
At N9BO℠, Full Face Mask Diver training develops confidence and competence with specialised equipment widely used by public safety divers, scientific divers, professional divers, and recreational divers seeking enhanced comfort and protection.
Course Facts
- Course name: SDI Full Face Mask Diver
- Level: Advanced Recreational Speciality
- Minimum prerequisites: Minimum age 15, SDI Open Water Scuba Diver (or equivalent)
- Ratio: Maximum of 8 students per instructor (small groups recommended for quality training)
- Configuration: Students use standard open water scuba equipment, approved full face mask system, appropriate regulator configuration, alternate air source system
- Depth / environment: Within recreational no-decompression limits, Swimming pools, Confined water environments, Open water training sites
- Format: Academic development + equipment workshops + confined water skills + emergency procedures + 2 open water dives
- Duration: Approximately 1 day, 2 open water dives
What You’ll Learn
- Learn the advantages, limitations, and applications of full face mask systems
- Configure and properly fit a full face mask for safe diving operations
- Practise equalisation, buoyancy control, and underwater mask-management procedures
- Develop confidence handling full face mask emergencies and equipment issues
- Improve safety, communications awareness, and operational diving capability using specialised equipment
Prerequisites
- Be at least 15 years old.
- Certified as SDI Open Water Scuba Diver (or equivalent).
- Be medically fit for diving.
FAQ
A full face mask covers the eyes, nose, and mouth while integrating the breathing system into the mask itself.
Common benefits include:
- facial protection
- contaminated-water protection
- improved communications capability
- increased comfort in cold-water environments
- corrective lens options within certain systems
No.
Full face masks are used by:
- recreational divers
- professional divers
- scientific divers
- public safety divers
- underwater communicators
Yes.
Many full face mask systems can be fitted with underwater communications equipment, making them popular for professional and operational diving applications.
Many divers continue into:
- SDI Dry Suit Diver
- SDI Ice Diver
- SDI Solo Diver
- ERDI Full Face Mask Operations
- Public Safety Diver programmes
- professional diving pathways
Ready to Dive with a Full Face Mask?
Whether you want increased comfort, enhanced protection, improved communications capability, or preparation for professional diving environments, our team will help you develop the skills required to safely and confidently use full face mask systems.
Go Pro with the SDI Instructor Development Course (IDC)
Expand your diving knowledge through internationally recognised SDI training programmes delivered by experienced course directors and instructor trainers at N9BO℠. Build confidence, aquatic awareness, and practical skills that support lifelong enjoyment of underwater activities.
