Develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to explore wrecks safely and responsibly with our PADI Wreck Diver Specialty course at a trusted PADI 5‑Star IDC Centre in Northampton.
Through PADI eLearning and four supervised open-water wreck dives, you’ll learn how to plan and organise wreck dives, identify potential hazards, use appropriate wreck-diving equipment, navigate around a wreck and maintain excellent buoyancy control.
You’ll also learn responsible wreck-diving practices, including how to protect fragile wrecks and avoid disturbing marine life. Where appropriate and permitted, the course may introduce limited-penetration techniques, including the use of lines and reels. The course does not cover full wreck penetration or overhead-environment training.
Taught by experienced instructors in small groups, the course will help you become a safer, more confident and more capable wreck diver, ready to explore local and holiday dive sites.
What are the prerequisites for the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty?
You must hold a recognised PADI Open Water Diver certification, or an equivalent qualification, and be at least 15 years old. Any required medical clearance must be completed before the practical training. Good buoyancy control and basic dive experience are recommended so you can focus on developing your wreck-diving skills.
What are the prerequisites for the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty?
You must hold a recognised PADI Open Water Diver certification, or an equivalent qualification, and be at least 15 years old. Any required medical clearance must be completed before the practical training. Good buoyancy control and basic dive experience are recommended so you can focus on developing your wreck-diving skills.
How long does the course take?
The course includes PADI eLearning followed by four supervised open-water wreck dives. These are normally completed over one full day or arranged across two shorter sessions, depending on site conditions, availability and scheduling.
Where are the training sessions held? The practical training takes place at suitable approved wreck-diving sites. Stoney Cove is one of our regular training locations, subject to conditions and availability. Do I need my own wreck-diving equipment?
No. Appropriate scuba equipment and the specialist wreck-diving equipment required for the course are included, as specified in your booking. You are welcome to use your own equipment if it is suitable and in good working order.
What will I learn during the course?
You’ll learn how to plan and conduct wreck dives, assess hazards, navigate around a wreck, use reels and lines, maintain good buoyancy and trim, communicate effectively with your buddy and respond to common wreck-diving problems. The course may also include limited-penetration techniques where suitable and permitted. It does not qualify you for full wreck penetration or other overhead-environment diving.
What are the class sizes and instructor ratios?
We keep groups small and student-to-instructor ratios low wherever possible. This provides personalised tuition, detailed feedback and plenty of time to practise your skills in the water.
Is any additional equipment or preparation required?
You’ll need to complete the PADI eLearning before the practical sessions and bring your logbook, swimwear, suitable exposure protection and any personal dive equipment you prefer to use. We’ll provide further guidance on equipment and preparation before your training day.
Will I receive certification after completing the course?
Yes. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty certification, which will be recorded on your PADI diver profile.
What happens if weather or site conditions are unsuitable?
We monitor conditions carefully and will reschedule or relocate the dives to a suitable approved site if necessary. Your safety is our priority. Any cancellations or rescheduling will be managed in accordance with our booking policy, and we’ll keep you informed as soon as possible.