Paragon Diving’s three-day Specialty Instructor training in Big Pine Key is designed for certified instructors ready to expand their specialty course offerings with expert-led classroom and in-water sessions.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have good physical health and basic swimming ability to perform in-water skills comfortably.
Wildlife
History
Big Pine Key's name honors the large pines once commonly found here and is rich in local maritime history tied to reef fishing and diving.
Conservation
The area supports ongoing coral reef restoration projects and promotes sustainable dive practices to protect delicate ecosystems.
Paragon Diving
Paragon Diving’s three-day Specialty Instructor training in Big Pine Key is designed for certified instructors ready to expand their specialty course offerings with expert-led classroom and in-water sessions.
Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key, Florida, operates as a dive center offering a range of training courses and guided trips focused on technical and recreational scuba diving. The operation provides SSI specialty training and certifications, with offerings that include Decompression Diving, Deep Diving, Enriched Air Nitrox, Gas Blender, Search & Recovery, Wreck Diving, and React Right emergency first response.
Instruction combines classroom study, confined water practice, and open water boat dives where required by each program. Course formats range from one-day workshops such as Gas Blender and React Right to multi-day programs like the four-day Decompression Diver Bundle and two-day Deep Diving specialty. Several programs include scheduled boat trips and multiple dives to meet certification requirements.
Paragon Diving lists professional development pathways including Assistant Instructor, Divemaster, Specialty Instructor bundles, and guide training that prepare divers to lead or assist in supervised diving activities. Recreational courses such as Open Water Diver, Perfect Buoyancy, Navigation, and Equipment Techniques are also available for developing foundational skills.
The center emphasizes structured syllabi tied to SSI standards and provides online materials and detailed schedules for instructor-led experiences. Course descriptions specify practical skill sessions, hands-on exercises, and certification outcomes where provided. Interested divers should consult the Paragon Diving experience listings for exact itineraries, prerequisites, and required equipment before booking.
Contact information and booking details are available through the Paragon Diving listing on The Adventure Collective, where schedules, pricing, and reservation steps are published for each course and trip to help divers plan their trips effectively.
Location
Big Pine Key, FL
Florida Keys dive base
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Official listing and feature
Courses Offered
23
Range of SSI programs and trips
Boat Dives
Included in courses
Several specialties include boat trips
Find available dates, certification prerequisites, and booking steps on the Paragon Diving listing featured on The Adventure Collective and confirm reservations directly through the listing.
Complete Prerequisites First
Ensure you are a certified SSI Open Water Instructor before enrolling to meet course requirements.
Prepare for Mixed Learning
The course combines online materials, classroom sessions, and in-water practicals—stay organized to keep pace.
Protect Your Gear
Florida’s saltwater environment can be harsh—rinse and maintain equipment after each use to ensure longevity.
Hydrate and Rest
Three intensive days require good hydration and rest to maintain focus and safety during dives.
Dive Computer
Necessary for monitoring dive profiles and ensuring safe underwater practice during training.
Wetsuit (3mm–5mm)
Provides thermal protection in varying water temperatures common around the Keys.
fall|winter|spring
Mask and Fins
Basic gear required to comfortably and effectively perform in-water skills.
Surface Signaling Devices
Safety equipment like SMBs ensures visibility during open water swims.