TDI Advanced Sidemount Diver
Refine your system, extend your capability, and operate sidemount with true technical precision
Duration
2–3 days, 4 dives
Max Depth
Within your current certification level
Level
Advanced / Technical
Next Step
TDI Deco Procedures / Adv Nitrox / Cave or Adv Wreck
Overview
The TDI Advanced Sidemount Diver course is designed for divers who already use sidemount and want to refine their configuration, efficiency, and control to a higher operational standard.
This programme focuses on advanced gas management, equipment streamlining, and precision control under increased task loading. You will develop the ability to handle multiple cylinders, improve trim and propulsion to a technical level, and execute dives with greater efficiency and awareness.
At N9BO℠, this course is not about basic setup: it’s about building a sidemount system that performs reliably in demanding environments and prepares you for decompression and overhead diving pathways.
Course Facts
- Course name: TDI Advanced Sidemount Diver
- Level: Advanced / Technical configuration course
- Minimum prerequisites: Minimum age 18, TDI Sidemount Diver or equivalent
- Ratio: Max 4 students per instructor in open water
- Configuration: Advanced sidemount system with multiple cylinders, stage/deco integration where appropriate
- Depth / environment: Limited to diver’s current certification level
- Format: Academic development + confined water refinement + open water performance dives
- Duration: Minimum 2 days and 4 open water dives
What You’ll Learn
- Refine sidemount configuration for improved streamlining and reduced drag.
- Manage multiple cylinders, including stage and decompression gases.
- Execute advanced gas-switching procedures and dive planning strategies.
- Maintain precise trim and buoyancy under increased task loading.
Prerequisites
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be certified as a TDI Sidemount Diver or equivalent.
- Be medically fit for diving.
FAQ
This course is for certified sidemount divers who want to improve efficiency, streamline their configuration, and prepare for more advanced technical diving environments such as decompression, cave, or wreck diving.
The focus shifts from basic configuration to performance under load — including multiple cylinders, more complex gas management, and higher precision in buoyancy, trim, and team awareness.
You will refine your setup, complete confined water drills, and conduct multiple open water dives focusing on gas management, control, and problem-solving in realistic scenarios.
While not mandatory, this course significantly improves readiness for technical training by building the control, awareness, and system management required for decompression and overhead environments.
Yes. This course is often combined with Advanced Nitrox or Decompression Procedures to build a complete technical diving foundation.
Ready to Refine Your Sidemount System?
Send us your current certification level, sidemount experience, and goals. We’ll help you fine-tune your configuration and build a system ready for advanced diving.
Go Pro with TDI Advanced Sidemount Instructor
Go beyond personal diving, and start teaching advanced sidemount techniques at a professional level. Delivered by a TDI Instructor Trainer, this pathway builds the skills, control, and confidence to train divers to TDI standards.
