Specialty classes teach you specific skills. These classes cover all the stuff not specifically covered elsewhere. These classes may be run for a group or for individuals. Scheduling is generally between the students and the instructor, so there is lots of flexibility.
Night/Low Visibility
Although traditionally part of an “Advanced Diver” course, most divers in the North West realize that diving here can quickly go from 25 foot visibility to 4 foot visibility. I have done day dives where it was nearly as dark as night at 60 feet. Due to those factors we have decided to offer this class as a stand alone course. So if you aren’t ready for a full Advanced course, or if this subject was brushed over in your Advanced course, come in and learn some new skills.
Underwater Hunter and Collector
Now before you get all fired up and come looking for new sites to spear Ling Cod, let me explain what we are doing here. Spear fishing and gathering tasty treats has been a part of diving since the beginning. During this course expect to learn about the necessary equipment, techniques and tactics as well as responsible take guidelines, ecology, fish and game identification and game regulations. Due to season restrictions, actual spearing will most likely be in pursuit of the elusive Puget Sound NERF fish.
Equipment Diver
Equipment specialties always sound silly, however we have noticed that far too many divers, even those with many dives under their weight belts, have no clue when it comes to dive gear. During this course we will teach you the principles of how dive gear works, user level maintenance, basic diagnostics, and user level repairs. We will also discuss the assembly of extensive “save-a-dive” kits. This is a fully “dry” class.
Drysuit Diver
Drysuits are a completely different piece of equipment when compared to wetsuits. Is is always best to take a class on any new piece of equipment. This course introduces you to the proper function of the drysuit, as well as gives you controlled practice in handling the things that can go wrong.
Solo Diver
Now I can hear all sorts of people calling to tell me that no one should dive alone. Take it easy. No one says you “Must” dive alone after this class. The point of this class is to teach the diver excellent self sufficiency skills. In order to be a good dive buddy you must be ready to assist in case of emergencies. You must be self sufficient so that you don’t become part of the problem. A great portion of this class deals with proper planning and well thought out gear configuration. There will be both classroom and practical application.