SSI Advanced Open Diver

Ready to go beyond the basics and truly expand your diving world? The SSI Advanced Open Diver rating recognizes divers who have invested in their skills, logged real experience, and explored multiple specialty areas under professional guidance.

To earn this level, you’ll complete a minimum of 24 logged dives and at least 4 SSI Specialty Programs of your choice. This allows you to customize your training around what excites you most—whether that’s deeper dives, improved buoyancy, night diving, navigation, dry suit, or nitrox for more bottom time.

Training with Coral Sea Scuba means learning in real Pacific Northwest conditions, with local instructors who focus on safety, comfort, and building confidence so you’re prepared for almost any dive adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SSI Advanced Open Diver rating?
This rating recognizes divers who have completed at least 4 SSI Specialty Programs and logged a minimum of 24 dives. It shows that you have real-world experience and a solid foundation of advanced skills.

Which specialties should I choose?
Popular options include Deep Diving, Navigation, Perfect Buoyancy, Enriched Air Nitrox, Night & Limited Visibility, Dry Suit, and Equipment Techniques. We’ll help you choose specialties that match your interests and diving goals.

How long does it take to reach Advanced Open Diver?
The timeline depends on how often you dive and which specialties you select. Many divers earn this rating over several weekends or spread it out over a dive season as they complete specialties and log dives.

What are the prerequisites?
You’ll need to be an SSI Open Water Diver (or equivalent) and comfortable in the water. Some specialties may have additional requirements, such as minimum age or experience level.

Do my logged dives from past trips count?
Yes, any properly logged dives count toward your total as long as they meet SSI standards. Bring your logbook or digital logs so we can review your experience.

What’s the next step after Advanced Open Diver?
Many divers continue on to SSI Master Diver, professional-level training like Dive Guide, or add more advanced specialties to expand their skills and dive opportunities.