Enriched Air Nitrox Diving with Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours total (classroom + optional dive)
Fitness Level
General good health and moderate fitness to comfortably complete training and dives
Overview
Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key offers the SSI Enriched Air Nitrox course, helping divers extend bottom times and boost safety with oxygen-rich air mixtures. Learn new skills and earn certification in a half-day session enriched by expert local knowledge.
Enriched Air Nitrox
Ages 12+ • 1/2 Day • Extend your dive time.
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About This Adventure
Enhance your diving experience with the Nitrox Diver program! Learn to safely dive with enriched air mixtures, extending your bottom times and reducing surface intervals. Complete the course to earn your SSI certification and enjoy the option of a guided dive to apply your new skills. Dive deeper into adventure!
Duration
1/2 day
About
As a Nitrox diver, you can increase your bottom times and safety margins, plus shorten your surface intervals - so you can spend more time diving and less time waiting! In this program, you will learn new skills and increase your diving knowledge whilst learning how to safely plan and dive with enriched air mixtures of up to 40% oxygen.
Upon completion, you will earn an SSI Enriched Air Nitrox 32% or 40% certification.
More Info
Training will occur in the morning and finish up for lunch. If you would like to add a guided dive in the afternoon to test your newly acquired knowledge, simply pick Add a Dive during the booking process. 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 does not include any boat trips unless selected during booking.
Prerequisites
- 12 years of age
- Certified as an Open Water Diver
Adventure Tips
Check Your Certification Prerequisites
Ensure you’re a certified Open Water Diver and at least 12 years old before enrolling in the Nitrox course.
Understand Gas Mixture Limits
Nitrox mixtures up to 40% oxygen require careful dive planning to avoid oxygen toxicity; follow guidelines strictly.
Bring Your Diving Logbook
Have your dive records handy for course registration and to track your new certification details.
Consider Adding a Guided Dive
Book an additional dive with Paragon Diving after your course to apply your new Nitrox skills immediately.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawksbill sea turtles
- Spotted eagle rays
History
Big Pine Key and nearby reefs have long been a hub for commercial fishing and now a focal point for coral conservation.
Conservation
Local dive operators emphasize low-impact diving practices to protect coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key West
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Provides thermal protection in varying water temperatures year-round.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Dive Computer
Crucial for monitoring Nitrox gas limits and bottom time safely.
Mask and Snorkel
Basic gear for underwater vision and surface respiration.
Surface Signaling Devices
Useful for added safety during open water dives.