Advanced Open Water Diver

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Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) is a scuba diving certification level provided by several diving organizations. The term generally refers to the level of training and experience that a diver has. The AOWD is designed to improve and expand upon the knowledge and skills learned in the Open Water Diver certification, which is the entry-level certification for scuba diving.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The Advanced Open Water Diver certification allows divers to gain more experience, improve their scuba diving skills, and explore a wider range of diving environments under the supervision of a professional. The course usually includes five different specialty dives, including deep diving and underwater navigation. Other specialty dives can be chosen by the diver and may include night diving, wreck diving, and underwater photography.

Requirements[edit | edit source]

To enroll in the AOWD course, divers must have an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent from any recognized training agency. Some organizations also require divers to be at least 15 years old, although a junior version of the certification can be obtained by those aged 12-14.

Training[edit | edit source]

The AOWD course consists of theory sessions, confined water dives, and open water dives. The theory sessions cover more advanced diving knowledge, including the planning and organization of dives, the effects of pressure, decompression theory, and emergency procedures.

The confined water dives are used to practice and demonstrate mastery of the skills learned in the theory sessions. The open water dives are designed to apply these skills in a real diving environment.

Certification[edit | edit source]

Upon successful completion of the AOWD course, divers are awarded the Advanced Open Water Diver certification. This certification is recognized worldwide and allows divers to participate in more advanced dive activities, including deeper dives and more challenging dive environments.

Advanced Open Water Diver Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD