Master Emergency Dive Skills

Enhance Your Diving Expertise with Our Comprehensive PADI Rescue Diver Course

Learn to Handle Underwater Emergencies Like a Pro

5
Pool Session
2
Scuba Dive
5
Theory Review
Adv
Skill Level Required
R4335
Low Season Price
Inc.
All Gear & 4 Nights

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a true hero underwater? At Coral Divers, we’re excited to offer the PADI Rescue Diver course, designed to transform your diving skills and prepare you for any emergency.

When you first learn to dive, your primary focus is on yourself and mastering the skills needed to ensure your underwater safety. However, the PADI Rescue Course takes you to the next level, expanding your focus to include the safety and well-being of other divers.

This course prepares you to prevent and manage diving emergencies, both minor and major, using a range of techniques. Many PADI Rescue Divers find it one of the most challenging yet rewarding courses they’ve ever taken. Despite the seriousness of the subject, the training is engaging and fun.

Advanced

Training for Emergencies

What is the PADI Rescue Diver Course?

The PADI Rescue Diver Course is a comprehensive 3-day program that transforms recreational divers into confident, skilled, and prepared rescue divers. As a PADI-certified rescue diver, you’ll participate in a series of theory sessions, pool training, and rescue scenarios designed to teach you vital self-rescue techniques, how to recognize and manage stress in other divers, and how to effectively use emergency management and equipment.

You’ll begin in a controlled, calm pool environment, practising essential skills under the guidance of your instructor. These sessions simulate various scenarios to enhance your critical thinking and preparedness. As you progress, you’ll move to the open water, where you’ll apply your skills during two sea dives for your final assessment.

By the end of this rescue diver course, you’ll be equipped to handle emergencies, rescue panicked or unconscious divers, and ensure safety underwater. These skills are crucial for any diver and pave the way for further professional training, such as the PADI Divemaster course.


Step-by-Step

Rescue Training

PADI Rescue Diver Course Structure

Our PADI Rescue Diver training offers flexible learning options. Complete the theory portion online through our virtual classroom and join us for practical training in Sodwana or any PADI Dive Center. Alternatively, complete the full course in Sodwana, combining theory and hands-on practice.

The course schedule includes key modules, training sessions, and both practical and theoretical components. Here is a breakdown of what to expect:

Course Structure

  • Our PADI Rescue Diver training offers flexible learning options. Complete the theory portion online through our virtual classroom and join us for practical training in Sodwana or any PADI Dive Center. Alternatively, complete the full course in Sodwana, combining theory and hands-on practice.
  • The course schedule includes key modules, training sessions, and both practical and theoretical components. Here is a breakdown of what to expect:

Course Itinerary Example

Here is an example of a typical schedule for the PADI Rescue Diver Course. This can vary depending on your chosen learning option and individual progress.

Morning
You will be watching training videos and completing the knowledge development sections, followed by a short exam.

Afternoon
Rescue skills development will take place in confined water, allowing you to practise and hone essential techniques in a controlled environment.

Morning
You’ll participate in an Open Water Rescue Skills Development dive, where you will apply your training in a real-world setting.

Afternoon
This time is allocated for you to complete any outstanding knowledge development, finalise your emergency assistance plan, and take the final exam if it hasn’t been completed yet.

Morning
The morning session will focus on open water dive scenario practice, where you’ll apply the skills and knowledge you’ve gained through simulated emergency situations.

Afternoon
Certification will take place in the afternoon, marking the successful completion of your training and your new status as a PADI Rescue Diver.



Prerequisites

You Need to Know

PADI Rescue Diver Course Requirements

To become a scuba rescue diver, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria and prerequisite certifications:

Age Requirement

  • Participants must be 12 years or older.

Medical Requirement

  • Complete the PADI Medical Statement and obtain a doctor-signed ‘fit to dive’ medical form if any “yes” answers are given. The certificate must be less than 12 months old.
  • Note: Doctors cannot sign their own medical forms.

Parent/Guardian Consent

  • If under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the paperwork.

Certification Requirement

  • Must have a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. Participants younger than 15 will receive a PADI Junior Rescue Diver certification.

CPR & First Aid Certification

  • Proof of CPR & First Aid training within the last 24 months is required. Alternatively, complete the PADI Emergency First Response course together with the Rescue Diver course.

What’s Included and Excluded in the PADI Rescue Diver Program?

For your convenience, we offer a full rescue diver training package that includes everything you need to complete the program successfully. Here’s what’s included and excluded:


What’s Included

  • Your 2 Qualifying Dives: Put your skills to the test with two exciting sea dives under the supervision of our experienced instructors.
  • Full Gear Hire: All necessary diving gear is included, so you can focus on your training without any hassle.
  • PADI Certification: Upon successful completion, receive the prestigious PADI Rescue Diver certification.
  • Free Beach Shuttle: Hop on our free shuttle service to the beach and back, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.
  • Online PADI Rescue Diver ‘E-Manual’: Access all your learning materials online before you even arrive, making it convenient to study at your own pace.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy 4 nights in one of our cozy Safari Tents, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of nature. Bring your own bedding or request bedding from us. For more comfort, you can upgrade to a Standard Cabin or Ensuite Cabin at a discounted, additional cost.

What’s Excluded

  • iSimangaliso Park Gate Entry Fee: A gate fee is required to enter iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This fee supports the park’s conservation efforts.
  • KZN Wildlife Fee: A separate fee is payable to KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife, which ensures the continued preservation of the region’s natural beauty.
  • Meals: Food and beverages are not included in the package. However, you can enjoy delicious meals at our restaurant or bring your own supplies.

Notes

Our receptionists can assist with any fees should it be needed.

Elevate

Your Diving Skills

Want to Further Your Diving Journey?

Ready to take your diving skills to the next level? After becoming a certified rescue scuba diver, the next step is our Divemaster course. This program refines your diving abilities and prepares you for professional diving roles.

After you’ve completed the Divemaster course and you’re passionate about teaching and sharing your love for diving, our PADI Instructor Course is perfect for you. You should also consider joining our Instructor Development Course (IDC).

This comprehensive program is designed to turn experienced divers into confident, certified instructors. You’ll learn advanced teaching techniques, gain leadership skills, and open up exciting career opportunities worldwide.

hear

from our divers

What Our Divers Say

Hear firsthand from our divers about their journey through the PADI Rescue Diver Course at Coral Divers. Their stories capture how our immersive, hands-on training has sharpened their emergency response skills and heightened their confidence underwater.

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Michelle S.
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Sarah W.
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dive

with confidence

Why Choose Coral Divers for Your PADI Rescue Diver Course?

Choosing Coral Divers for your Rescue Dive Course means opting for a premier diving experience. Here’s why:


FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions You May Have

No, the PADI Rescue Diver course is challenging but not hard. It requires practice, skill development, and discipline to complete. However, our experienced instructors are dedicated to guiding you in mastering all necessary skills with ease.

A PADI Rescue Diver can dive to a maximum depth of 30 meters when they are also qualified as a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver.

To become a PADI Rescue Diver, you must complete the PADI Rescue Diver course, which includes both theoretical online studies and practical water sessions under the guidance of certified instructors.

No, the PADI Rescue Diver certification does not expire, but the EFR certification needs to be renewed every two years.

A PADI Rescue Diver enhances dive safety by identifying, preventing, and managing emergencies, employing advanced skills to assist divers in distress, and ensuring a safe diving environment for everyone.

The PADI Rescue Diver Course typically takes 3 days to complete, including both online theoretical studies and practical in-water rescue sessions with our certified instructors.