RAID - Boat Diver
RAID Boat Diver Course
The RAID Boat Diver course is a specialty program designed to introduce divers to the procedures, etiquette, and techniques for safe and enjoyable diving from various types of boats. It covers boat terminology, equipment considerations, entry and exit methods, and best practices for boat diving operations.
Benefits of the RAID Boat Diver Course
- Expands knowledge of different boat types and diving operations from boats.
- Teaches safe entry and exit techniques specific to boat diving.
- Improves understanding of boat etiquette and safety protocols.
- Enhances skills for handling equipment and emergencies on boats.
- Increases confidence and comfort when participating in boat-based dives.
- Provides practical experience through open water boat dives.
- Contributes toward specialty credits or advanced certifications.
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 15 years.
- Certified as RAID Open Water 20 or equivalent from a recognized agency.
- Completion of a medical questionnaire. Certain conditions require physician approval.
- For minors (under 18): Parental or guardian consent and signature on required forms.
- Required personal items: Swimsuit and towel (all scuba equipment typically provided by the dive center during training).
Participants must complete or update standard RAID forms, including a liability release and safe diving practices agreement, via the RAID User Portal.
Course Structure
The course is conducted by a certified RAID instructor and combines online theory with practical water sessions:
1. Academic Development
Completed via RAID’s online FREe-Learning platform. Topics include:
- Boat terminology and types
- Equipment requirements for boat diving
- Safety procedures and etiquette on boats
- Entry and exit techniques Students access digital manuals, complete quizzes, and pass a final exam at their own pace.
2. Equipment Orientation
Review and configuration of scuba equipment for boat diving scenarios.
3. Practical Water Sessions
No confined water training required.
Open water training: Minimum of two boat dives, focusing on:
- Safe entries and exits from boats
- Proper stowage of equipment
- Boat-specific procedures and skills Skills emphasize real-world application and safe boat diving practices.
Duration and Depth Limits
- Theory: Self-paced online (typically several hours).
- Practical sessions: Usually completed over 1-2 days, including the two open water boat dives.
- Maximum training depth: No specific depth limit beyond the diver's current certification.
- Certification limits: Enhanced boat diving capabilities in conditions similar to or better than training.
Equipment Provided
During training, the dive center typically supplies all required scuba equipment, including:
- Tank
- Regulator
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
- Mask, snorkel, fins
- Weights
- Specialty items as needed for boat scenarios
Participants need only bring a swimsuit and towel.
Certification
Upon successful completion, students receive a globally recognized electronic certification (e-card) issued by RAID. The certification is permanent and downloadable from the RAID portal. It recognizes proficiency in boat diving techniques.
Next Steps to Enroll
1. Create a free account on the RAID User Portal: https://user.diveraid.com
2. Purchase the digital Boat Diver course materials in the RAID Store and access them via https://diveraid.com/free-learning/
3. Contact the center to book, discuss fees, and schedule your session. The center will unlock training materials, conduct the program, and handle any recognition.
The RAID Boat Diver certification equips divers with the knowledge and skills for safer and more efficient participation in boat diving, a common platform for accessing many dive sites.
