Do I need my own gear?

No—full gear hire is included with the higher-price option, but you may use your own equipment if preferred.

No. All training dives are shore-based to reduce sea sickness and maximize in-water learning time.

The Deep specialty extends training to a maximum of 30 m, conducted with instructor supervision and appropriate procedures.

How long does the course take?

Minimum three days, typically spread over multiple days depending on tides, swell and group scheduling; some dives may be combined if conditions allow.

Is this the same as Advanced Open Water?

It follows the SDI Advanced Adventurer pathway—similar in structure but designed as five specialty dives to give a taste of advanced skills without full specialty certification requirements.

What if conditions aren’t suitable?

Instructors will reschedule dives. Safety and quality of training take priority over completing dives in poor conditions.

Advanced Adventurer Course: Shore-Based SDI Dives in Port Stephens | Scuba | Guided Tour

The Advanced Adventurer Course in Port Stephens delivers a focused path for certified divers ready to deepen their skills. Based in Shoal Bay with check-in at 41 Ocean Beach Road, the course runs five shore-based specialty dives—buoyancy, night, deep (to 30 m), wreck, and navigation—across the sheltered bays, kelp beds, and rocky reef structures that define this stretch of New South Wales coastline. Using shore entries instead of boats, coaches keep you close to shore for controlled training, reduced motion sickness, and more time practicing skills in real ocean conditions.

Port Stephens is a compact classroom: sandy scalloped beaches give way to rocky outcrops, seagrass flats and scattered wrecks that attract curious fish and structure-loving invertebrates. Wreck dives here expose divers to intact hulls and artificial reefs that teach trim, buoyancy and site orientation, while night dives flip the scene entirely—nudibranchs, crustaceans and shy predators become active once the sun sets. Tomaree Headland looms above Shoal Bay, a local high point that also carries WWII coastal defense remnants and provides a dramatic reference for navigation practice.

This course is built for certified open water divers who want substance over a quick certification—small groups, patient instruction, and flexible scheduling across multiple days ensure real progression. Expect to complete the SDI Advanced Adventurer eLearning before water time, then tackle dives staged from shore over two to three days (the program may expand based on tides and visibility). Instructors focus on practical problem solving: compass work, natural navigation, controlled ascent from depth, and precision finning around wreck structures.

What’s included matters: five specialty training dives, tank fills, small group coaching, certification upon successful completion, and optional full gear hire. The shore-based approach is what sets this apart in Port Stephens - shore entries mean easier logistics, consistent learning windows, and the ability to pick ideal local sites when conditions permit.

Prepare by completing required eLearning, verifying medical fitness, and bringing warm layers for surface time between shore entries. The course balances exploration and discipline: you’ll gain deeper depth limits (to 30 m), wreck familiarity, advanced buoyancy, night dive competency, and the compass skills that make you a safer, more confident diver in any coastal environment. For divers visiting New South Wales who want focused, practical advancement in a scenic marine playground, this course is the next step.

Sessions typically start early to take advantage of calm morning conditions, and instructors tailor objectives to each diver’s experience and goals. Minimum age is 18 and divers must be medically fit and complete the SDI eLearning beforehand. Because groups are capped at two, you’ll get direct feedback and repeat practice. To book, use the operator’s referral link and confirm flexible scheduling around tides and swell forecasts and weather.

About Squids Dive Co

Squids Dive Co is a Shoal Bay-based dive school and snorkel operator serving Port Stephens. Specialising in freediving instruction, guided snorkel tours, and equipment hire, the company focuses on small-group experiences and personalised attention. Founded to share the marine environment of Fly Point Marine Reserve, Squids Dive Co operates hands-on training sessions in both pool and ocean settings and offers practical, safety-first teaching for beginners and intermediate participants.

The 2-Day PFI Freediver Course teaches breath-holding, equalisation, and safe diving techniques under PFI standards and concludes with an internationally recognised certification. Sessions combine classroom theory, pool training, and open-water dives so participants gain practical skills and confidence. Guided snorkel tours visit Fly Point Marine Reserve, where local guides highlight coral gardens and marine life at a relaxed pace suitable for all skill levels. Snorkel gear hire lets visitors explore independently, with optional guidance for novices or the chance to join a guided experience.

Safety and quality equipment are central to Squids Dive Co's approach. Small group sizes allow instructors to deliver personalised coaching and maintain safety standards. All courses and tours follow recognised training protocols and local marine regulations. Visitors receive clear briefings, guided site selection based on conditions, and support tailored to ability levels.

Squids Dive Co operates from Shoal Bay, New South Wales, providing accessible access to Port Stephens' sheltered bays. The business caters to holidaymakers, local divers, and anyone seeking professional freediving training or a curated snorkelling experience. Bookings are made online or via direct phone enquiry today.