Underwater Navigation Training at Paragon Diving, Big Pine Key
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours (including dives and instruction)
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness levels suitable for recreational diving, including swimming proficiency.
Overview
Master compass use and natural techniques with Paragon Diving’s Navigation Specialty in Big Pine Key. Gain confidence beneath the waves on two reef dives and earn your certification in one immersive day.
Navigation
Ages 12+ • 1 Day • Do you get lost underwater?
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About This Adventure
Enhance your diving skills with this one-day SSI Navigation Specialty program. Learn advanced techniques like compass use and natural navigation to boost your underwater confidence and safety. Complete the course with two dives at the reef and earn your certification, ensuring every dive is an unforgettable adventure.
Duration
1 day
About
In this specialty program, you will gain the advanced skills and knowledge you need to safely and confidently navigate underwater.
You will learn how to use a compass and natural navigation techniques, estimate distance, how to leave and return to a designated point, plus basic navigation patterns. You will also be taught how to combine navigation techniques to enhance your diving experience. All of which hones your underwater observation skills, improves your dive safety and helps you to get the most out of every dive.
Upon completion, you will earn the SSI Navigation Specialty certification.
More Info
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 requires the student to have and use an underwater slate and compass.
This course includes 1 boat trip (2 dives) to the reef.
Prerequisites
- 12 years of age
- Certified as an Open Water Diver
Adventure Tips
Practice Compass Skills on Land First
Familiarize yourself with compass use above water to build confidence before the dive.
Use an Underwater Slate
Bring an underwater slate to assist with course notes and navigation planning during your dive.
Check Weather and Water Conditions
Currents and visibility affect navigation; plan dives on calm, clear days for best results.
Stay Close to Your Dive Buddy
Precision in navigation improves when practiced with a partner watching your compass and path.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Spotted Eagle Ray
- Green sea turtle
History
Big Pine Key is home to the endangered Key deer species and has a rich fishing heritage dating back centuries.
Conservation
Paragon Diving promotes reef-friendly diving practices to safeguard this fragile coral ecosystem from diver impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key West
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Underwater Compass
Critical for learning and practicing compass navigation underwater.
Underwater Slate and Pencil
Allows note-taking and distance marking during navigation dives.
Wetsuit (3-5mm)
Provides thermal protection in cooler water conditions common in the Keys outside summer.
fall|winter|spring specific
Fins with Good Maneuverability
Facilitates precise movement essential for controlled navigation underwater.