Dive Guide Certification with Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, able to swim continuously and manage dive equipment comfortably.
Overview
Advance your underwater skills with Paragon Diving’s Dive Guide program in Big Pine Key. This 6-day course trains certified divers to confidently lead groups through the stunning reefs and wrecks of the Florida Keys.
Dive Guide
Ages 15+ • 6 Days • Learn to guide certified divers!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 6-day Dive Guide program, where you'll master the skills to lead certified divers in diverse environments. Gain confidence through dive briefings, site evaluations, and hands-on leadership, paving your way to a professional diving career or advancing towards Divemaster qualifications. Dive into adventure and exploration!
Duration
6 Days
About
The Dive Guide program is the first step on an exciting journey. Learn to safely lead certified divers in various environments and conditions. By giving dive briefings, doing site evaluations, and leading dives, you will become a confident Dive Guide in no time. Begin your diving career working as a Professional Dive Guide or continue the qualifications for Divemaster.
More Info
Training will typically occur over 3 weekends. This course may also be conducted over 6 consecutive days if desired. Once you have booked your course, you will receive your online academic materials and a course introduction letter laying out schedule and expectations for the course.
Prerequisites
- 15 years of age
- Ability to tread water for 15 minutes
- Ability to swim 400yds without stopping (without mask, fins, snorkel)
- CPR and 1st Aid certification (within the last 2 years)
- Certifications in Deep, Diver Stress & Rescue, Navigation, and Night & Limited Visibility specialties
- 50 or 32hrs of logged dives (will be verified on day 1)
Adventure Tips
Prepare Physically
Ensure you can comfortably swim 400 yards and tread water for at least 15 minutes before starting the course.
Bring CPR and First Aid Certification
You must have up-to-date CPR and First Aid certification within the last two years to enroll.
Know Your Dive Log
Have at least 50 logged dives, including Deep, Rescue, Navigation, and Night specialties verified on day one.
Plan for Weather Variability
Florida Keys weather can shift; come prepared for heat, sun, and occasional rain when training out on the water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Key deer
- Green sea turtles
History
Big Pine Key is home to the endangered Key deer, a species indigenous to this region, highlighting the area's ecological importance.
Conservation
Paragon Diving emphasizes sustainable diving practices to protect fragile coral reefs and marine life throughout training and guiding services.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key West, Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Full Dive Kit (mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit)
Reliable dive gear is essential for safe and comfortable underwater navigation throughout the course.
summer specific
Surface Signaling Devices
Carry safety equipment like SMBs or whistles to signal the boat or other divers during site evaluations.
Dive Computer
An accurate dive computer helps track depth and no-decompression limits, critical for safe dive leadership.
Waterproof Notebook
Useful for recording dive site data and briefing notes during practical sessions.