SIDEMOUNT: DIVE WITH MORE FREEDOM AND CONTROL
Diving with a Sidemount configuration is not just about equipment—it’s a new way to explore the underwater world. This technique enhances hydrodynamics, increases comfort, and allows direct access to tanks, making air management more efficient and providing greater autonomy underwater.
With Sidemount, weight is distributed more evenly, reducing fatigue and ensuring optimal buoyancy. This allows for smoother, more natural movement, making it ideal both for divers looking to refine their technique and for those seeking a new underwater experience.
Think Sidemount is complicated? It may require some adjustments at first, but with proper training and practice, it becomes an intuitive and comfortable system. Moreover, more and more divers, both recreational and technical, choose it for its versatility and safety.
Who is this course for?
Our Sidemount course combines XR Foundations training with Recreational Sidemount certification, so by the end of the program, you will earn two specialty certifications.
To enroll, you must be at least 18 years old and hold an Advanced SSI certification (or equivalent).
Training Philosophy: Quality and Safety
At Xaloc Diving Center, we train autonomous, safe, and competent divers, capable of diving with a buddy of the same or higher level.
Each course has a minimum duration, but certification is not automatic. You will only be certified once your instructor determines that you have met the standards required by SSI and Xaloc, ensuring that you can safely dive in this challenging environment.
For this reason, the course is charged per training day (150 €/day). If you need additional time to meet the requirements, you can extend your training with extra practice days.
Discover a new way to dive with total freedom!
COURSE PROGRAM
1) Self-study at home + practical theory sessions in L’Estartit
– Access to interactive learning materials from any device, with a flexible training program that allows you to study at your own pace and receive constant support from your Xaloc Diving Center SSI technical diving instructor.
2) Equipment configuration session
One of the great advantages of Sidemount diving is its adaptability. However, each diver needs a personalized setup to maximize performance. This practical session will help you properly configure your equipment to ensure comfort and efficiency underwater.
3) Physical fitness test
We will assess whether you are physically prepared to undertake the course safely and successfully.
4) Confined water exercises (Sidemount/XR Foundations)
Sidemount provides more options for handling underwater situations compared to traditional back-mounted setups. None of these techniques are complicated, but it’s essential to practice them in confined water before applying them in more demanding environments.
In the pool or confined water, we will work on various exercises, including:
- Pre-dive checks and planning
- Proper hydrodynamic positioning and propulsion techniques
- Regulator switching
- Valve shutdowns
- Managing inflator system issues
- How to react in case of a clip or bungee failure
5) Open water dives
Once the XF Foundations course is completed, under the supervision of your Instructor, you will apply all the skills learned in a real environment. This will not only allow you to enjoy your first sidemount dives safely but also build your confidence in handling your equipment and dealing with various underwater situations.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR COURSE
Minimum duration: 5 days
Price: €150/day (per person)
Reservation: €375 upon confirmation of enrollment
Instructor: Ramon Siliceo Canyet, expert in technical and cave diving
What’s included in the price?
- Sidemount cylinders
- Sidemount buoyancy compensator
- Regulators adapted for Sidemount diving
- Weights
- Air or Nitrox
- Boat dives
- SSI online learning materials
What is NOT included in the price? (Equipment required from the student): Dry suit (preferably), fins, 2 masks, reel and decompression buoy, dive computer and underwater slate, 2 cutting tools (preferably a knife and line cutter), and a primary dive light.
*If you need any equipment, you can purchase it at our dive shop.
Equipment rental: We recommend bringing your own technical diving gear. However, if you are unable to do so for logistical reasons, rental equipment is available for €40/day.
Important requirements and conditions:
- Mandatory medical certificate
- Mandatory dive insurance (available for purchase at our center)
- If the course objectives are not met within 5 days, additional training days will be required (€150/day)
- Advance booking required via phone, website, or email
Why choose Xaloc Diving Center?:
- Experience and exclusivity: We are one of the few centers on the Costa Brava with qualified instructors for these courses.
- Prime location: Training takes place within the Montgrí Natural Park.
- High-quality training: We don’t just provide certification; we prepare you to dive safely and confidently.
Contact us now to book your spot!