Boat Diving Adventures with Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours (half-day)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended to handle boat transfers, surface swims, and diving with equipment in warm water.
Overview
Discover the thrill of boat diving with Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key. Gain expert skills while immersing yourself in Florida's vibrant offshore reefs and diverse marine life.
Boat Diving
Ages 12+ • 1/2 Day • Dive from a boat like a pro!
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About This Adventure
Duration
1/2 day
About
The ocean is filled with dive sites, but many of the best ones can only be accessed by boat. If you want to discover these incredible dive sites, become an SSI boat diver. It is the best way to learn how to dive from different types of boats safely and with confidence.
As a boat diver, you will be able to explore offshore dive sites that attract schooling pelagics and marine megafauna not found closer to shore. You can experience the excitement of liveaboard diving anywhere in the world, fill your day with diving away from the crowds, and cruise along as the sun goes down. Using online training and open water diving sessions, the SSI Boat Diving Specialty program is the best way to learn.
This program teaches you all the skills and techniques you need to dive safely and comfortably from boats, including small personal craft and liveaboards. Earn your SSI Boat Diving Specialty certification. Get started today.
More Info
This course is conducted on the boat during a dive trip to the reef. Once you have booked your course, you will receive your online academic materials (typically within 24 hours) and a course introduction letter laying out schedule and expectations for the course.
This course includes 1 boat trip (2 dives) to the reef.
Prerequisites
- 12 years of age
- Certified as an Open Water Diver
Adventure Tips
Complete Online Training Before Arrival
Finish the SSI Boat Diving Specialty online modules to maximize your in-water time and understanding of boat diving protocols.
Check Weather and Sea Conditions
Boat diving depends heavily on calm seas; confirm sea state forecasts before your trip to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
Secure Your Dive Certification Card
Bring proof of your Open Water Diver certification as it's required to participate in boat diving trips with Paragon Diving.
Stay Hydrated and Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Hydration is critical in the Florida sun, and reef-safe sunscreen helps protect delicate coral ecosystems below the surface.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles
- Southern stingray
History
Big Pine Key hosts part of the National Key Deer Refuge established in 1957 to protect the endangered Key deer.
Conservation
Paragon Diving emphasizes reef-safe practices and educates divers on minimizing their environmental footprint during dives.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key West
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mask, Snorkel, and Fins
Basic gear for maneuvering comfortably both on surface and underwater during boat dives.
Wetsuit (3mm to 5mm)
Provides thermal protection and prevents scrapes from rough coral or boat surfaces.
fall|winter|spring specific
Dive Computer
Essential for monitoring depth, time, and decompression limits during boat dives.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays while safeguarding the sensitive reef environment.
summer|null specific