Have you encountered a tec diver? Even before getting in the water, tec divers can easily be identified by having multiple cylinders and regulator sets, all meticulously labelled. They seem to have (at least) two of everything: two dive computers, two DSMBs, two masks, two cutting devices. From further observation, you may notice a calm confident demeanor, as they methodically check their equipment, plan their dives and prepare their slates. Underwater, you observe them using unfamiliar hand signals as they effortlessly hover with perfect horizontal trim. If this is something that you find interesting and would like to learn more about, then you should consider the PADI Discover Tec experience.
What Is Tec Diving?
Technical diving allows you to extend your diving beyond recreational “no stop” limits. This includes diving beyond 40 meters/130 feet, diving in an overhead environment beyond 60 linear meters (200 linear feet) from the surface, undertaking planned dives requiring decompression and using variable gas mixtures or scuba technologies, such as Closed Circuit Rebreathers (CCR).
Tec Diving Opens up New Diving Adventures
Tec diving is the gateway to an increased variety of challenging dive sites. If you ever had thoughts such as, “I want to explore the bottom of that wall at 50 meters/165 feet,” “I want to see what is deep inside that wreck” or “I want to spend longer at depth, but I cannot, because of my no stop limit,” the solution is technical diving.
The PADI TecRec® Program provides divers with the knowledge, skills and experience to facilitate these new adventures, with PADI Discover Tec representing the first step on this journey.
What To Expect From the Experience
As part of your PADI Discover Tec experience, you will listen to a briefing that covers the purpose of the experience, how to work as a team in addition to training limitations and future progression. Whether you are diving a single cylinder and bailout cylinder, back mounted doubles or sidemount configuration, your PADI TecRec instructor will provide you with an orientation of the equipment, including your deco cylinder.
Underwater, you will get experience in diving this technical configuration, as well as having the option to practice fundamental technical skills, including gas shutdown drills, donning and removing a deco cylinder and deploying a DSMB or lift bag.
Is Tec Diving Right for You?
Tec Diver training can lead you to diving in some of the least dived and most exciting dive sites in the world. Tec diving is a commitment, both in terms of cost (extra equipment and gas blends) and time (refining skills and developing knowledge), but if you are ready for the journey, there are many rewards. For those who are unsure, the PADI Discover Tec experience allows you to dip your toes into the water before jumping in at the deep end – literally!
If you decide to progress, then consider enrolling in the PADI Tec Basics or PADI Tec 40 Diver course. If you do, then the PADI Discover Tec experience can count towards Training Dive 1. Even if you decide that it is not for you at this stage in your diving journey, this exposure to new knowledge and experience will help make you a better and safer recreational diver. Who knows, it may be something that you return to later!
Next Steps
Gather more information about the Discover Tec experience, as well as how to progress through the PADI TecRec Courses. Following this, reach out to your local PADI TecRec Dive Shop to book your experience.
This guest blog was written by Peter Ryland Cairns, a PADI Pro for five years and counting. Now a freelance technical dive instructor, he predominantly dives in Thailand where he mentors divers in advanced open circuit technical skills. As someone who values development, he has also co-authored two PADI Distinctive Specialty courses (so far), helping to expand training opportunities for divers seeking unique, experience-driven education beyond standard certifications.