High Sierra Divers

High Sierra Divers

Instructor Training Center

217 Palm Ave, 95603 Auburn, CA - United States

High Sierra Divers was founded in 1985 by three passionate divers—Tom Minch, Dave Albright, and Jim Nordstrom. Their vision was simple: introduce people to the incredible underwater world while creating a welcoming dive community.

Doug Novelly first walked through our doors as a student in 1988. After taking his first scuba class, he instantly fell in love with diving and knew he wanted to make it his career. He began working at High Sierra Divers as a salesperson, continued his training through the instructor ranks, and discovered his true passion—teaching others to dive and sharing the excitement of the underwater world.

In 2001, Doug and Tina Novelly purchased High Sierra Divers and have proudly continued its tradition of providing exceptional scuba education, quality equipment, and outstanding customer service.

From the moment you walk through our doors, we want you to feel like part of our family. We often say we strive to be like Cheers—a place where everyone knows your name. Today, our daughter is also part of the family business, helping us connect with the dive community through our social media.

At High Sierra Divers, we offer both group and private scuba certification courses. Our goal is not simply to certify divers, but to develop confident, comfortable, and safe divers who are excited to continue exploring the underwater world.

Northern California offers some of the most spectacular diving anywhere. From the kelp forests of Monterey to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, our dive adventures introduce students to an amazing variety of marine life, including playful sea lions, curious sea otters, colorful nudibranchs, giant Pacific octopuses, and countless other fascinating underwater creatures.

We proudly carry only the brands we trust, dive with, and stand behind. With so many styles and options available, we’re here to help you choose the equipment that best fits your diving goals, experience, and budget.
Most importantly, our relationship with our customers doesn’t end after a class or a purchase. Whether you have questions about your equipment, need advice before a trip, or simply want to stop by and share stories from your latest dive adventure, our door is always open. We genuinely enjoy watching our divers grow and hearing about the unforgettable experiences they have beneath the surface.

For over 40 years, High Sierra Divers has been more than a dive shop—we’ve been a family, introducing generations of divers to the incredible underwater world. Whether you’re taking your very first breath underwater or planning your next great adventure, we’d be honored to be part of your journey.

At High Sierra Divers, you’re more than a customer—you become part of our diving family.

Upcoming Events

  • Open Water Diver Course

    Open Water Diver Course

    Our SSI Open Water Diver Course is designed to be fun, supportive, and confidence-building, giving you everything you need to safely explore the underwater world.A $50 deposit secures your spot, and classes are kept small—so reserving early is the best way to guarantee your place.Your Course ScheduleClassroom (6:00 – 8:30 p.m.) August 18,20,25,& 27Pool Sessions (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.): August 22 & 23Ocean Training – Ocean Monterey August 29 & 30Complete your certification with an unforgettable weekend that includes:4 open water dives1 snorkel divePlus, you’ll receive a FREE Dive Computer Class (a $125 value) to help you dive with confidence.Course PricingCourse Fee: $398 (Includes classroom instruction, pool sessions, and instructor-led open water dives)Personal Gear Package (required): $289 – $499 (Mask, snorkel, fins, boots, gloves & cutting devices)Plus mouthpieces for regulators. ➤ Receive a $100 rebate when gear is purchased through High Sierra Divers.Digital Learning Materials: $159.99 Normally $180.99 (SSI digital book, dive tables, certification card, and logbook)Rental Gear for Open Water Dives: Special rental rate when you purchase your basic gear for HSD.We provide all scuba gear for pool sessions, and rental gear is available for your ocean dives.Why Choose Us?✔ Small class sizes for personalized instruction ✔ Experienced, professional instructors ✔ Focus on safety, confidence, and enjoyment ✔ Ongoing support—even after certificationAdditional InformationMinimum age: 12 years and olderCourse duration: Approximately 2 weeksSmall group instruction focused on safety and confidenceReady to Get Started?Create your SSI Diver profile and connect with us here: https://www.divessi.com/en/homeOr simply reply to this email, call, or stop by the shop—we’ll take care of the rest.This is more than just a class—it’s the beginning of a lifetime of adventure. Don’t wait too long… spots fill quickly, and we’d love to see you in this upcoming session!Best regards, Doug & Tina

    August 18, 2026 +7 More
    $398.00
    Enriched Nitrox Course (up to 40%)

    Enriched Nitrox Course (up to 40%)

    SSI Enriched Air Nitrox Diver CourseTake your diving to the next level with Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN)—one of the most valuable certifications a recreational diver can earn.Nitrox contains a higher percentage of oxygen than standard air, allowing for longer bottom times, reduced fatigue, and shorter surface intervals. It’s no surprise that divers have been safely using Nitrox since the late 1980s—and now it’s your turn to experience the benefits.Course OverviewThis entry-level specialty certification prepares you to safely plan and dive using Enriched Air Nitrox blends from EAN22 to EAN40.Upon successful completion, you will be certified to dive with Nitrox independently and may continue your training with the Advanced Nitrox Upgrade.What You’ll LearnHistory and evolution of Nitrox divingOxygen exposure and safety considerationsBenefits and limitations of EANGas handling and analysis proceduresDive planning using tables and computersEquipment considerations for Nitrox divingPhysics and physiology of enriched airScheduleLecture Session: August 19 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM(Please confirm if this date works for you.)Course RequirementsCompletion of course materialsWritten examNo dives required—this is a classroom-based certification.PricingCourse Fee: $125SSI Digital Learning Kit: $99 (Includes certification card; student discount available at $89.99)Optional Hard Card: $25Bundle & SaveEnroll in an Advanced Adventure / Advanced Course along with Nitrox and receive: ✔ $50 off the Advanced course ✔ One complimentary EAN cylinder rental ✔ Additional cylinders available at $20 eachTotal savings: $70Ready to Dive Smarter?Nitrox is one of the easiest ways to extend your dive time and improve your overall diving experience. Spots are limited—secure yours today!

    August 19, 2026
    $125.00
    Open Water Diver Course

    Open Water Diver Course

    You’re just one step away from becoming a certified diver—and we’d love to have you join us!Our SSI Open Water Diver Course is designed to be fun, supportive, and confidence-building, giving you everything you need to safely explore the underwater world.A $50 deposit secures your spot, and classes are kept small—so reserving early is the best way to guarantee your place.Your Course ScheduleClassroom (6:00 – 8:30 p.m.)Sept 15,17,22, & 24Pool Sessions (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.): Sept 19 & 20Ocean Training – Ocean Monterey Sept 26 & 27Complete your certification with an unforgettable weekend that includes:4 open water dives1 snorkel divePlus, you’ll receive a FREE Dive Computer Class (a $125 value) to help you dive with confidence.Course PricingCourse Fee: $398 (Includes classroom instruction, pool sessions, and instructor-led open water dives)Personal Gear Package (required): $289 – $499 (Mask, snorkel, fins, boots, gloves & cutting devices)Plus mouthpieces for regulators. ➤ Receive a $100 rebate when gear is purchased through High Sierra Divers.Digital Learning Materials: $159.99 Normally $180.99 (SSI digital book, dive tables, certification card, and logbook)Rental Gear for Open Water Dives: Special rental rate when you purchase your basic gear for HSD.We provide all scuba gear for pool sessions, and rental gear is available for your ocean dives.Why Choose Us?✔ Small class sizes for personalized instruction ✔ Experienced, professional instructors ✔ Focus on safety, confidence, and enjoyment ✔ Ongoing support—even after certificationAdditional InformationMinimum age: 12 years and olderCourse duration: Approximately 2 weeksSmall group instruction focused on safety and confidenceReady to Get Started?Create your SSI Diver profile and connect with us here: https://www.divessi.com/en/homeOr simply reply to this email, call, or stop by the shop—we’ll take care of the rest.This is more than just a class—it’s the beginning of a lifetime of adventure. Don’t wait too long… spots fill quickly, and we’d love to see you in this upcoming session!Best regards, Doug & Tina

    September 15, 2026 +7 More
    $398.00
    Open Water Diver Course

    Open Water Diver Course

    You’re just one step away from becoming a certified diver—and we’d love to have you join us!Our SSI Open Water Diver Course is designed to be fun, supportive, and confidence-building, giving you everything you need to safely explore the underwater world.A $50 deposit secures your spot, and classes are kept small—so reserving early is the best way to guarantee your place.Your Course ScheduleClassroom (6:00 – 8:30 p.m.) September 15,17,22,& 24Pool Sessions (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.): September 19 & 20Ocean Training – Ocean Monterey September 26 & 27Complete your certification with an unforgettable weekend that includes:4 open water dives1 snorkel divePlus, you’ll receive a FREE Dive Computer Class (a $125 value) to help you dive with confidence.Course PricingCourse Fee: $398 (Includes classroom instruction, pool sessions, and instructor-led open water dives)Personal Gear Package (required): $289 – $499 (Mask, snorkel, fins, boots, gloves & cutting devices)Plus mouthpieces for regulators. ➤ Receive a $100 rebate when gear is purchased through High Sierra Divers.Digital Learning Materials: $159.99 Normally $180.99 (SSI digital book, dive tables, certification card, and logbook)Rental Gear for Open Water Dives: Special rental rate when you purchase your basic gear for HSD.We provide all scuba gear for pool sessions, and rental gear is available for your ocean dives.Why Choose Us?✔ Small class sizes for personalized instruction ✔ Experienced, professional instructors ✔ Focus on safety, confidence, and enjoyment ✔ Ongoing support—even after certificationAdditional InformationMinimum age: 12 years and olderCourse duration: Approximately 2 weeksSmall group instruction focused on safety and confidenceReady to Get Started?Create your SSI Diver profile and connect with us here: https://www.divessi.com/en/homeOr simply reply to this email, call, or stop by the shop—we’ll take care of the rest.This is more than just a class—it’s the beginning of a lifetime of adventure. Don’t wait too long… spots fill quickly, and we’d love to see you in this upcoming session!Best regards, Doug & Tina

    September 15, 2026
    $398.00
    Advance Open Water Course

    Advance Open Water Course

    Course TopicsThis program provides an introduction to several key diving specialties, including:Natural and Compass NavigationNaturalist / Ecology DivingComputer DivingBoat Diving ProceduresNight DivingDeep DivingReview of Hyperbaric Injuries (causes, treatment, and prevention)Orientation to New Dive SitesTwo-Tank Boat DiveClass IncludesOne evening lecture: October 14, 2026 (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)One weekend of open water training: October 23 & 24, 2026Five open water divesWritten examinationPrerequisitesOpen Water certification (from any recognized agency)Minimum age of 12 yearsStudents must provide full open water scuba equipment, including: compass, dive computer, alternate air source, underwater light, dive knife, glow stick, slate, dive tables, and logbookCourse FeesCourse Tuition: $225.00Boat Trip: $140.00Certification Card (hard copy): $25.00Required Digital Learning Kit: $129.99 (Includes Boat, Perfect Buoyancy, Deep, Night, and Navigation modules, along with a digital certification card and logbook.)Optional Add-On: Basic Nitrox CourseStudents have the option to combine this course with our Basic Nitrox Class, which introduces the use of enriched air to extend bottom time and increase safety margins.This course includes an additional evening of instruction and a written examination. While Nitrox use during dives is not required, it is strongly recommended to fully understand its practical benefits.Combination Course Benefits:$25 discount on the combined programComplimentary Nitrox cylinder rental (a $50 value)This combined training also supports progression toward advanced certifications such as Advanced Nitrox and Rebreather courses.Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to reserve your spot.

    October 14, 2026 +2 More
    $225.00
     Altitude Diver Specialty Course

    Altitude Diver Specialty Course

    Altitude Diver Specialty CourseJoin Us for Our Upcoming Altitude Diver Course!Class Begins August 12, 2026 Altitude Dives at Lake Tahoe – August 16, 2026Have you ever wondered how diving at altitude affects your dive planning? When diving at elevations above 1,000 feet, special considerations and corrections must be made to ensure safe and accurate dive planning.In this course, you'll learn why altitude affects diving and how to properly adjust your dive planning before, during, and after your dives. The program includes an evening classroom session and at least two supervised altitude dives.You'll discover why depth gauges and dive tables can provide misleading information at altitude and learn the procedures necessary to compensate for these differences. We will introduce the Albright Altitude Table, a simplified method that eliminates the need to work through multiple tables and complicated calculations.Following the classroom presentation, students will work through practical exercises based on real-world diving situations to build confidence in altitude dive planning.This course is open to all certified divers, regardless of certification agency.Course Topics Include:• Why Altitude Corrections Are Necessary • Physics of Altitude Diving • Arrival Procedures at Altitude • Dive Planning Considerations • After-Dive Procedures • Albright Altitude Table • Dive Tables and Their Use at Altitude • Dive Computers and Altitude Compensation • Computer-Based Altitude Diving • U.S. Navy Dive Tables • SSI Recreational Dive Tables • Other Agency Dive TablesCourse Includes:• One Evening Classroom Session • At Least Two Supervised Altitude Dives (Typically at Lake Tahoe)Course Fees:Altitude Diver Course: $125.00 Digital Training Materials: $69.99 Certification Card: $40.00How to RegisterTo sign up, contact High Sierra Divers by phone, email, or visit our website and select Classes → Altitude Diver to access the online registration form.

    August 16, 2026
    $125.00

    Location

    Available Services in the Dive Center

    Programs

    Snorkel Diver
    Ecology
    Scuba
    Emergency Training

    Dives

    Shore Dives
    Boat Dives

    Gas Fills

    Air
    Nitrox Dive

    Rental

    Dive Computer
    Equipment
    Photo and Video Dive

    Services

    Regulator
    Dive Computer
    Buoyancy Compensators
    Dry Suit
    Neoprene suits
    Cylinders

    Payment Method

    Credit Card
    Debit Card

    Opening Hours

    Monday---
    Tuesday10:00 - 18:00
    Wednesday10:00 - 18:00
    Thursday10:00 - 18:00
    Friday10:00 - 18:00
    Saturday10:00 - 15:00
    Sunday---
    https://www.hsdivers.com Contact

    Opening Hours

    Monday---
    Tuesday10:00 - 18:00
    Wednesday10:00 - 18:00
    Thursday10:00 - 18:00
    Friday10:00 - 18:00
    Saturday10:00 - 15:00
    Sunday---