XR SIDEMOUNT · Control, efficiency and progression
Sidemount is much more than just a different configuration: it is an advanced and efficient way of diving that improves control, stability, and underwater equipment management. It provides direct access to the cylinders, optimizes hydrodynamics, and offers a level of comfort and freedom that is hard to match.
This configuration promotes a balanced position, reduces effort, and improves precision in every movement. Although it requires an adaptation period, with proper training it becomes an intuitive, safe, and highly versatile system, increasingly chosen by advanced recreational and technical divers.
The XR Sidemount course is focused on mastering configuration, procedures, and efficient equipment management. It is not centered on depth or decompression, but on learning how to use the Sidemount system in a precise, organized, and adaptable way for different diving scenarios.
Who is this course for?
At Xaloc Diving Center we have designed this program by combining XR Foundations with the SSI Recreational Sidemount specialty, creating a coherent and solid training pathway.
Recreational Sidemount prepares divers to use one or two cylinders within recreational limits, up to 30 meters or their certification depth, whichever is deeper. XR Sidemount is the next step: a more demanding approach with greater emphasis on procedures, control, and technical quality, and the ideal foundation for progressing into technical diving or overhead environments such as caverns and caves.
Our training philosophy: quality before speed
At Xaloc we train autonomous, safe, and competent divers. Certification is not automatic: it is only granted when the instructor considers that the required SSI and Xaloc safety and quality standards have been achieved.
For this reason, training is charged per day. If you need more time to consolidate skills and meet the objectives, you can add extra training days without pressure or rush.
COURSE PROGRAM
1. Self-study + classroom theory sessions
Access to interactive SSI learning materials from any device, combined with practical theory sessions in L’Estartit and continuous support from your Xaloc SSI technical diving instructor.
2. Equipment configuration workshop
Sidemount is a highly adaptable system, but it requires precise and personalized adjustment. In this session you will learn how to properly configure your equipment to ensure comfort, efficiency, and control, adapting it to your body and type of diving.
3. Physical fitness assessment
We verify that you have the physical condition required to complete the course safely and make the most of the training.
4. Confined water training
Before moving to open water, we practice all key skills in a controlled environment. Sidemount offers multiple solutions to underwater situations, and it is essential to master them beforehand.
During these sessions we will practice pre-dive checks and planning, buoyancy control, trim and efficient propulsion, regulator switches, valve shutdowns, inflator system problem management, and solving equipment issues such as clips or bungee failures.
5. Open water dives
You will apply all skills in a real diving environment, always under the supervision of your instructor. These dives build confidence, equipment management, and decision-making in real conditions.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR COURSE
Minimum duration: 5 days
Price: 150 € per day per person
Reservation: 375 € upon confirmation
Your Instructor: Ramon Siliceo Canyet, specialist in technical and cave diving
The price includes: Sidemount cylinders, Sidemount harness or wing BCD, Sidemount regulators, weights, air or Nitrox, boat dives, and SSI online learning materials.
The price does not include: the student’s personal equipment: preferably a dry suit, fins, two masks, reel and SMB, dive computer and underwater slate, two cutting tools such as a knife and line cutter, and a primary dive light.
If you need any equipment, you can purchase it at our shop.
Equipment rental: We recommend bringing your own technical diving gear. If this is not possible for logistical reasons, rental equipment is available for 40 euros per day.
Conditions and requirements:
- Valid medical certificate
- Mandatory dive insurance available at the center
- If the objectives are not achieved within 5 days, additional training days can be added at 150 euros per day
Advance booking required by phone, web, or email
Why choose Xaloc Diving Center:
- Experience and specialization: one of the few centers on the Costa Brava with qualified instructors for this type of training.
- Prime location: training within the Montgrí Natural Park.
- Real and honest training: we don’t just certify you, we prepare you to dive with judgment, safety, and confidence.
Contact us and book your spot. Discover a new way of diving with control and freedom.