Rescue Diver Become a rescue diver
Prerequisite: Advanced + EFR
Stress management, rescue techniques, emergency scenarios
Safety-focused training
Coaching, equipment, PADI certification
The Rescue Diver course is often described as the most challenging yet most rewarding of all PADI courses. You will learn to anticipate problems, manage stress , both yours and others' , and respond effectively to underwater emergencies.
This course transforms how you see diving. You will never dive the same way again: every immersion becomes an opportunity to watch over your buddy and the group. It is a real turning point in your journey as a diver.
With Lau, the training takes place in real conditions, not in a classroom. Hands-on scenarios, realistic rescue simulations, and thorough debriefs after every exercise to build lasting reflexes.
The Rescue Diver is also the gateway to the professional level. If you are considering the Divemaster, this step is essential , and it will give you solid confidence for everything that follows.
Day-by-day program
Self-rescue & tired diver response
- • Review of self-rescue techniques , cramp removal, air management, emergency weight drop
- • Recognizing stress and panic in a diver before it escalates
- • Assisting a tired diver at the surface: contact and non-contact towing techniques
- • Pool practice of basic rescue approaches in a controlled, confidence-building environment
Distressed diver at depth & missing diver search
- • Responding to an out-of-air diver and uncontrolled ascent scenarios underwater
- • Missing diver search patterns , systematic sweeps that actually work under pressure
- • Lifting an unconscious diver from depth to the surface safely
- • Each exercise is practised repeatedly until it feels instinctive, not rehearsed
Unconscious diver at surface & emergency response
- • Airway management and in-water rescue breathing , the skills that save lives
- • Equipment removal and towing an unconscious diver to shore or boat
- • Shore-based response: positioning, CPR review, and emergency oxygen administration
- • You start to feel the shift , from reactive diver to someone who can genuinely take charge
Full rescue scenarios & certification
- • Integrated rescue scenario: a simulated accident from detection to emergency services handoff
- • You run the entire response , search, rescue, first aid, and coordination
- • Emergency action plan creation for a real dive site
- • Final debrief with Lau and PADI Rescue Diver certification , the course divers remember forever
This program is a typical example. The schedule and pace are adapted to each student, weather conditions and the dive site. Lau always adjusts the plan to make sure you get the best possible experience.
What you get
Our destinations
Tenerife
Spain
Calm, clear waters ideal for rescue exercises
Malaga
Spain
Mediterranean coast with varied conditions for training
Greece
Greece
Crystal-clear waters and exceptional setting for scenarios
Belgium
Belgium
Quarries & lakes for nearby training
Frequently asked questions
Do I need the EFR before starting?
Yes, the Emergency First Response (EFR) certification is a prerequisite. If you don't have it yet, Lau can arrange the EFR course right before the Rescue , contact us to plan both together.
Is it physically demanding?
The Rescue Diver requires good physical fitness, but nothing extreme. You will need to swim, tow a diver, and perform ascents. Lau adapts the pace to each student.
How many dives are included?
The course includes multiple open water exercises spread across the 4 days, including complete search and rescue scenarios in the sea.
Is the Rescue required for the Divemaster?
Yes, it is a mandatory prerequisite for the PADI Divemaster. It is also a course that will make you a better diver, regardless of your goals.
Where does the training take place?
Training takes place at one of our destinations: Tenerife, Malaga, or Greece. The choice depends on dates and your preferences , we decide together.
Prerequisites
PADI Advanced Open Water certification (or equivalent) + current Emergency First Response (EFR) certification (within 24 months). Minimum age 12 years.