Diver Stress & Rescue

Marine mammal interactions are common in these waters. Divers frequently encounter seals and sea lions, with young sea lions in particular displaying curiosity by approaching or following divers. Dolphins and whales are also often spotted from the boat. The underwater environment is exceptionally diverse. Common marine life includes sheephead, calico bass, halibut, garibaldi, ling cod, vermilion, numerous species of rockfish, opaleye, several varieties of perch, giant black sea bass, horn sharks, angel sharks, and various rays. Invertebrates such as lobsters, scallops, mussels, multiple types of abalone, eels, nudibranchs, sea fans, snails, sea cucumbers, sea hares, starfish, sea urchins, octopus, and numerous shellfish are abundant. Eel grass meadows, kelp forests, and a wide array of anemones also contribute to the vibrant ecosystem. The specific creatures and sights encountered can vary greatly depending on the dive site and the diver’s chosen path. Each island boasts unique geology, featuring cave systems, arches, swim-throughs, towering rock formations, and sheer walls, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing underwater landscape. Photography or fun diving only High Sierra Divers 530-823-6757

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.

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

It is easy for dive skills to get rusty and to lose confidence when you have not dived for a while. With the SSI Scuba Skills Update, we will get you back in the water and diving with ease in no time. This scuba refresher course allows you to review and practice scuba skills you learned in your Open Water Diver program, under the guidance of an SSI Professional. This is a great course to take just before a dive holiday, so you spend less time worrying about your skills and more time admiring the marine life. If you are a non-certified Open Water Diver student, a Scuba Skills Update is ideal for practicing your dive skills before your open water training dives. With no fixed course duration, you can take your time and focus on the skills you need help with. High SIerra Divers 530-823-6757

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: Sept 23 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!

Become a Scuba Instructor and Live Your PassionTo join the SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC), you must be a certified Divemaster or hold an equivalent qualification. This comprehensive program is part of SSI’s 2-Step Instructor Training Approach. It begins with the Instructor Training Course combination, supported by immersive digital learning. After successfully completing the ITC, you will attend the Instructor Evaluation (IE) to become an SSI Open Water Instructor.As a certified instructor, you’ll be able to independently teach key SSI programs such as Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, Enriched Air Nitrox, Diver Stress & Rescue, and Dive Guide.Need more time or want to gain hands-on experience before becoming a full instructor? You can take the Assistant Instructor portion as a standalone step. This allows you to assist with real student courses, build valuable teaching experience, and then complete the Instructor Evaluation at your own pace.The possibilities are endless – start your scuba diving instructor career now!

To join the SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC), you must be a certified Divemaster or hold an equivalent qualification. This comprehensive program is part of SSI’s 2-Step Instructor Training Approach. It begins with the Instructor Training Course combination, supported by immersive digital learning. After successfully completing the ITC, you will attend the Instructor Evaluation (IE) to become an SSI Open Water Instructor. As a certified instructor, you’ll be able to independently teach key SSI programs such as Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, Enriched Air Nitrox, Diver Stress & Rescue, and Dive Guide. Need more time or want to gain hands-on experience before becoming a full instructor? You can take the Assistant Instructor portion as a standalone step. This allows you to assist with real student courses, build valuable teaching experience, and then complete the Instructor Evaluation at your own pace. The possibilities are endless – start your scuba diving instructor career now!

SSI RESCUE DIVER COURSEThe Class You Hope You Never Need—But Absolutely Want to Be Prepared For.Be the Diver Who Knows What to Do When It Matters Most.Dive accidents can happen anytime, to anyone—even experienced divers. When something goes wrong underwater, there may not be time to stop and figure out what to do. Your training, preparation, and ability to stay calm can make all the difference.Take your diving skills to the next level with our SSI Rescue Diver Course—one of the most important and rewarding courses you can take as a diver.This course is designed to build confidence, sharpen your awareness, and develop the practical skills needed to prevent, recognize, and respond to diving emergencies.Whether it's your regular dive buddy, another diver on the boat, or even a complete stranger, you'll learn how to recognize when something isn't right, respond appropriately, and provide assistance when someone needs you most.Through a dynamic combination of classroom instruction, pool training, and open-water scenarios, you'll gain hands-on experience handling realistic situations and learn how to stay calm, think clearly, and take action.WHY TAKE RESCUE DIVER?Because being a good diver isn't just about taking care of yourself.It's about being prepared to help someone else when they need you.You hope you'll never have to use these skills—but if that moment comes, you don't want to be the diver standing there wondering what to do.Be prepared. Be confident. Be ready to help.COURSE SCHEDULELectures: September 30 & October 7 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PMPool Session: October 14 | 5:30 PMReact Right Specialty Course: October 17 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMExam: October 17Sugar Pine Open Water Trip: October 18WHAT YOU'LL LEARNThis performance-based course combines knowledge development with hands-on training to prepare you to respond confidently and effectively in a variety of diving emergencies.PREVENTION & AWARENESSRecognizing signs of diver stressPsychological factors, stress, and panicPanic recognition and managementPhysical conditioning and readinessEquipment considerationsRecognizing situations before they become emergenciesSurface drowning syndromeDIVER RESCUE & LIFESAVING SKILLSSelf-rescue techniquesAssisting other diversSurface and underwater rescuesSafe diver transport methodsIn-water artificial respirationBoat and shore exit strategiesDiver first aid basicsIntroduction to oxygen (O₂) administrationBUILD REAL-WORLD CONFIDENCEEmergencies rarely happen because of one big mistake. Often, they begin with small problems that escalate. Learning to recognize those warning signs early—and knowing how to respond—can help prevent a difficult situation from becoming a serious emergency.You'll practice your skills in a controlled training environment so you can develop the confidence to respond when it really matters.COURSE OVERVIEWMultiple evening lecture sessionsPool training sessionMinimum one day of open-water trainingWritten examHands-on rescue and emergency scenariosUpon successful completion, graduates are eligible to enroll in SSI dive leadership programs.

he SSI Drysuit Diving Specialty course is a 1-day course that consists of academic sessions, pool work, and open water dives. The academic sessions will cover the theory of drysuit diving, including the physics of Boyle's Law and its implications for diving at altitude. You will also learn about the different types of drysuits and how to choose the right one for you.The pool work will give you a chance to practice using your drysuit in a controlled environment. You will learn how to don and doff your drysuit, as well as how to perform basic buoyancy control skills. You will also practice emergency procedures, such as how to deal with an air leak.The open water dives will allow you to put your new skills to the test in a real-world environment. You will conduct two open water dives (in a lake) using your drysuit, under the supervision of a qualified instructor.Who should take this course?The SSI Drysuit Diving Specialty course is a great option for any certified diver who wants to learn how to dive in a drysuit. This course is especially beneficial for divers who plan to dive in cold water or at altitude.What are the prerequisites for this course?To take the SSI Drysuit Diving Specialty course, you must be a certified Open Water Diver. You must also be at least 10 years old.What will I learn in this course?In the SSI Drysuit Diving Specialty course, you will learn:The benefits and limitations of drysuits compared to wetsuitsHow a drysuit worksThe physics of drysuit divingBuoyancy control and trim in a drysuitEmergency procedures specific to drysuit divingHow to care for your drysuitWhat will I earn after completing this course?After successfully completing the SSI Drysuit Diving Specialty course, you will earn the SSI Drysuit Diving Specialty certification. This certification will allow you to rent or purchase a drysuit and dive in cold water.

Has it been a while since your last dive? Less than 2 years since you last explored the deep blue? Our Scuba Skills Course is the perfect way to shake off the rust and dive back in with confidence! Designed for certified divers who haven't been underwater for one to three years, this course will refresh your essential scuba skills, update you on the latest safety protocols, and make sure you're absolutely ready to rediscover the magic beneath the waves. Those underwater adventures are waiting for you!Practice your skills in confined water before you dive in open water. Good skills to practice include:Predive checksBuoyancy checks (proper weighting)BuoyancyMask clearingMask removal and replacementRecovering and clearing your regulatorShared air ascentEmergency swimming ascent or controlled emergency swimming ascent (depending on what your training agency teaches)You will receive a Skills Update digital card upon completion of the knowledge assessment and confined-water skills.This class is typically semi-private, meaning you'll receive personalized attention from the instructor—either one-on-one or with up to two students (or a family).The cost for this course, which includes your digital online books, is $169. Call us with your availability so we can make it work

Channel Islands Lobster Hunting AdventureFor Advanced DiversJoin High Sierra Divers aboard The Peace for an exciting 3-day liveaboard lobster hunting adventure to California's legendary Channel Islands!Designed for Advanced Open Water Divers and above, this trip offers the opportunity to complete over 12-15 dives, including night dives when conditions permit. The Channel Islands provide ideal lobster hunting conditions with rocky reefs, kelp forests, and thriving marine ecosystems that support healthy lobster populations.Night diving is where the real excitement begins. As the sun sets and the underwater world transforms, divers will have the opportunity to search for California spiny lobsters while exploring some of the most beautiful dive sites California has to offer.The Peace provides comfortable open-berth accommodations with single and double bunk options. Enjoy three freshly prepared meals each day, plus snacks, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and fresh water throughout the trip.This trip is recommended for:• Advanced Open Water Divers• Lobster hunters• Experienced boat divers• Divers looking to gain additional experience in challenging conditionsImportant Information• Lobster hunting requires a valid California fishing license and lobster report card.• Divers must comply with all current California lobster regulations.• All diving is unguided and buddy teams are responsible for planning and conducting their own dives.• Enriched Air Nitrox is available for an additional fee payable directly to The Peace.• Night diving experience is strongly recommended.If you've been looking for the ultimate California lobster hunting adventure, this is your chance to explore the world-famous Channel Islands, sharpen your skills, and bring home some bugs for the dinner table!

Underwater navigation is a crucial dive skill, but it does not need to be difficult. Become a better, more confident diver who always knows where they are going.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.Compass Navigation: Learning how to read and maintain headings using an underwater compass, account for currents, and master basic navigation patterns (such as out-and-back or square patterns.Distance Estimation: Techniques like kick-cycles and timing to know exactly how far you've traveled from your exit point

If you are interested in exploring the world of deep diving, becoming an SSI Deep Diver might be just what you are looking for. This program allows you to get certified to dive up to 40 meters (130 feet) deep, giving you the necessary skills and knowledge to explore the depths safely.In this article, we will go over what you can expect from this program and share some incredible deep dives that you can enjoy once you are certified. Ready to take your diving to the next level?Why consider becoming an SSI Deep Diver?When you join the SSI Deep Diving Course, you will gain a deeper understanding of safety and physiology at depth and improve your dive planning abilities. You will get the confidence to enjoy more challenging diving experiences – all under the careful supervision of a trained dive professionalThis course also provides you with more experience and knowledge of scuba diving in general and can prepare you for further advance diver course.What can you expect from the SSI Deep Diving Specialty program? First off, you will receive comprehensive theoretical training, covering topics like nitrogen narcosis, decompression sickness, and the effects of increased pressure on the body. You will also learn about specialized gear and equipment considerations, such as using extra air sources like pony bottles.Boat DivingThe ocean is filled with dive sites, but many of the best ones can only be accessed by boat. If you want to discover these incredible dive sites, become an SSI boat diver. It is the best way to learn how to dive from different types of boats safely and with confidence. As a boat diver, you will be able to explore offshore dive sites that attract schooling pelagics and marine megafauna not found closer to shore. You can experience the excitement of liveaboard diving anywhere in the world, fill your day with diving away from the crowds, and cruise along as the sun goes down. Using online training and open water diving sessions, the SSI Boat Diving Specialty program is the best way to learn. This program teaches you all the skills and techniques you need to dive safely and comfortably from boats, including small personal craft and liveaboards. Earn your SSI Boat Diving Specialty certification. Get started today. High Sierra Diver 530-823-6757The Fun PartDiving from a boat is fun, especially when you look at ease when maneuvering around on it. It’s fun to know what you’re doing.What You LearnLearn the tips, tricks, and ways to:Dive from boats ranging from small inflatables to giant liveaboardsHow do they differ from place to placeGain experience and training from diving on boats in your local areaSafely enter and exit the waterSometimes it’s better to hand your gear up to the crew and then climb into the boatSometimes you just take off your fins and weights and walk up the ladderStow your gear in the most appropriate areasUse surface lines to initiate or conclude your dives.Locate basic boat safety equipment

SSI Night Diving & Limited Visibility SpecialtyExperience the underwater world in a whole new light... after the sun goes down!Night diving transforms familiar dive sites into completely different environments. As daylight fades, nocturnal marine life emerges, colors come alive under your dive light, and every dive becomes an unforgettable adventure.The SSI Night Diving & Limited Visibility Specialty teaches you the knowledge and skills to safely and confidently dive in darkness or low-visibility conditions. You'll learn specialized techniques that allow you to communicate effectively with your buddy, navigate with confidence, and enjoy the excitement of exploring beneath the surface after sunset.During this course you will learn:Proper night dive planning and preparationSafe entry and exit techniquesDive light selection and proper useUnderwater light communication signalsNavigation in darkness and limited visibilityBuddy awareness and emergency proceduresHow to identify and observe nocturnal marine lifeYour training includes online academic learning followed by open water training dives where you'll put your new skills into practice with an SSI Professional by your side.Upon successful completion of the course, you'll earn your SSI Night Diving & Limited Visibility Specialty certification, opening the door to exciting new dive adventures around the world. Whether you're exploring California's kelp forests after dark or experiencing a tropical reef at night, you'll have the confidence and skills to dive safely and comfortably.Discover a side of the underwater world that most divers never see. The adventure begins when the sun goes down!Call High Sierra Divers for your next adventure 530-823-6757

SSI Perfect Buoyancy SpecialtyTake your diving to the next level by mastering one of the most important skills in scuba diving—buoyancy control.The SSI Perfect Buoyancy Specialty is designed to help you become a more comfortable, efficient, and confident diver. Whether you're exploring colorful reefs, swimming through kelp forests, or photographing marine life, excellent buoyancy allows you to move effortlessly through the water while protecting the underwater environment.In this course, you'll learn advanced techniques to achieve perfect neutral buoyancy, proper weighting, and a streamlined horizontal trim. Better buoyancy means using less energy, reducing air consumption, extending your bottom time, and avoiding accidental contact with delicate marine life.During this course you will learn:Proper weighting techniquesNeutral buoyancy controlStreamlined horizontal body position (trim)Efficient finning techniques, including frog kicks and helicopter turnsPrecise buoyancy control using your breathingImproved underwater movement and positioningAir conservation techniques that help extend your divesHow to protect fragile reefs and marine ecosystemsThrough a combination of digital learning and in-water training with an SSI Professional, you'll develop the skills that make every dive more enjoyable and effortless.Upon successful completion, you'll earn your SSI Perfect Buoyancy Specialty certification and discover why experienced divers consider buoyancy control to be the foundation of every great dive.Master your buoyancy, improve every dive, and become the diver everyone wants as their buddy!