Do I need an Open Water certification before taking this course?

Yes, the Enriched Air Diver Specialty is designed for certified Open Water Divers or equivalent.

How much longer can I dive with nitrox compared to regular air?

Nitrox increases no-decompression limits, often extending bottom time by 20-30% depending on depth and oxygen mix.

Is it safe to use nitrox for all scuba dives?

Nitrox is safe when used correctly with proper training to monitor oxygen exposure and depth limits.

Can minors take this course?

Participants aged 12 and older can enroll with proof of prior diving certification.

Do I have to bring my own gear?

Basic dive equipment is often available for rent, but personal gear like masks and fins is recommended for comfort and fit.

How long does the certification last?

The Enriched Air Diver certification does not expire but refresher courses are recommended if inactive for extended periods.

Extend Your Ocean Adventures with the Enriched Air Diver Specialty in Avalon, California | Water Activities

Avalon, a charming harbor city on Santa Catalina Island, California, offers more than scenic views and coastal relaxation—it’s a gateway to some of the Pacific’s most vibrant dive sites. Here, the Enriched Air Diver Specialty course invites divers ages 12 and up to enhance their underwater experience through nitrox technology. This specialty course is a must for certified divers looking to lengthen their bottom time and explore more expansive parts of the ocean with greater safety margins. Santa Catalina Island has long been a prized destination for scuba diving due to its crystal-clear waters, kelp forests, and abundant marine life. As an Enriched Air Diver, you’ll learn to use breathing gas mixtures with higher oxygen content than standard air, which not only increases no-decompression limits but also allows diversification in dive planning and reduces nitrogen buildup in your body. This course covers analyzing tank contents, oxygen exposure management, and dive planning, balancing rigorous technical knowledge with practical, hands-on training. What sets this experience apart is the combination of expert instruction and the dynamic underwater landscape of Avalon. Dive sites here showcase rocky reefs, tall kelp canopies swaying with the currents, and vibrant fish species native to Southern California’s kelp ecosystems. The course’s 1.5-hour format fits seamlessly into your island itinerary, maximizing time underwater without sacrificing safety or education quality. Beyond diving, Avalon offers a picturesque backdrop with its seaside boardwalk, historic casino, and quaint shops, making it easy to enjoy a full day of activities. The Enriched Air Diver Specialty enhances your ability to dive repeatedly in these waters by managing your nitrogen load efficiently, allowing for safer and more enjoyable multiple dives or extended underwater exploration. Whether you’re an advanced open water diver eager to extend your limits or a curious diver ready to try nitrox, this course elevates your skills in a location that offers unique marine encounters and a supportive diving community. The instructors understand Avalon’s environmental specifics and provide personalized coaching to ensure you’re confident when you return to the water. Adding this certification to your diving credentials means opening doors to deeper, longer, and safer underwater adventures wherever you go. Avalon’s combination of accessible dive spots, rich marine biodiversity, and professional instruction makes it a standout place to become an Enriched Air Diver. Prepare to uncover more from beneath the waves and create lasting underwater memories on Santa Catalina Island.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

1.5 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should be in good physical condition with basic swimming skills to safely complete pool and open water components.

Wildlife

Garibaldi fish – Vibrant orange reef fish native to California
California sea lions – Playful mammals often seen near the shore

History

Santa Catalina Island has been a diving destination since the early 20th century, with Avalon evolving as a key hub for aquatic recreation.

Conservation

Local operators emphasize reef protection and encourage responsible dive practices to preserve Catalina’s marine ecosystems.

Diving Catalina is a dive operator based on Catalina Island, California, offering guided scuba and snorkeling experiences around Casino Point Dive Park and nearby sites. The company provides a range of services for beginners, certified divers, and certification students, including equipment rentals, introductory dives, guided kelp forest and reef dives, night dives, and specialty excursions using diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs) and power snorkel scooters. Instructors lead Introductory Scuba Dives and Casino Point Snorkel Tours, introducing guests to vibrant marine life, kelp forests, and the protected, pollution-free waters of California’s first nonprofit underwater park. Referral Dives and Open Water Classes allow divers to complete certification dives on Catalina Island with instruction from agency-affiliated professionals. An Enriched Air Diver specialty course is also offered for certified divers seeking extended bottom time. Diving Catalina supports returning divers through 1-Tank Refresher Dives to rebuild skills and confidence and provides 1-Tank DPV and 1-Tank Guided Kelp Forest Dives for more expansive underwater exploration. Night Dives showcase nocturnal species and teach night dive techniques, buoyancy, and navigation under instructor supervision. Power Snorkel EXTREME gives snorkelers motorized assistance to cover more distance safely and enjoyably. All trips emphasize safety, local site knowledge, and equipment access through scuba rentals and guided formats. Divers and snorkelers can expect professionally led outings in a scenic marine environment on Catalina Island, focused on education, wildlife observation, and memorable underwater experiences. Reservations, rental availability, and schedule information are provided directly by Diving Catalina through its booking channels on Catalina Island and staff.

Base locationAvalon, California

Tours offered12+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace