Search and Recovery Diver
SDI Search & Recovery Diver Course
Master Underwater Search Techniques Near Charlotte, NC
Do you know what to do if you lose valuable equipment underwater—or need to locate and retrieve an object in murky water? The SDI Search and Recovery Diver course at Sink or Swim Scuba in Gastonia, NC (just outside of Charlotte) teaches advanced search patterns, lifting techniques, and real-world recovery skills. Whether you're a recreational diver or working toward your SDI Advanced Diver Development Program, this hands-on specialty will sharpen your underwater navigation and salvage capabilities.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
Who Should Enroll?
This course is ideal for:
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Certified scuba divers looking to improve their underwater search and retrieval techniques
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Rescue divers, public safety divers, or anyone involved in recovery missions
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SDI Open Water Divers or equivalent (ages 15+ with parental consent, 18+ otherwise)
What You'll Learn
In the Search & Recovery Diver course, you'll build confidence and skill in:
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Compass navigation and distance estimation
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Search patterns: circular, grid, overlap (current), and shotgun
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Underwater communication and recovery signals
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Lift bag and lifting drum techniques
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Knot tying, rigging, and object retrieval in low visibility
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Recovery of items weighing between 25–75 lbs underwater
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Real-world salvage scenarios including emergency simulations
Course Format
This is a blended learning course, combining online eLearning through SDI with practical in-water sessions taught by our experienced instructors right here in the greater Charlotte area. All open water training dives are completed under realistic conditions to prepare you for real search and recovery tasks.
Why Train with Sink or Swim Scuba?
As a 5-Star SDI Instructor Training Center, Sink or Swim Scuba provides premier scuba training in the Charlotte region. With decades of public safety and real-world diving experience, our instructors offer personalized coaching, high-quality gear, and hands-on support every step of the way.
Certification & Benefits
Upon successful completion, you'll receive the SDI Search and Recovery Diver certification. You’ll be qualified to:
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Plan and conduct independent search & recovery dives in conditions similar to training
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Apply your certification toward the SDI Advanced Diver Development Program
Course Requirements
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Complete all eLearning and in-water skill demonstrations
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Log all required dives
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Show sound dive planning and judgment throughout the course
Location: Sink or Swim Scuba – 4310K Wilkinson Blvd, Gastonia, NC (just 25 minutes from Charlotte)
Contact: Call 704-823-0501 or email Dive@SinkorSwimScuba.com to enroll today.
Public safety dive team training with the Sink or Swim Scuba Crew
