Many divers wouldn’t think of diving without carrying a delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB), and in most locations it’s considered required safety equipment. Knowing how to properly deploy and manage a DSMB are valuable skills learned in this course.

Who Should Take This Course?

Using a Delayed Surface Marker Buoy (DSMB) in the tidal waters of the UK is a safe alternative to using a shot line for an ascent. The DSMB course is perfect for any diver wishing to gain confidence in the use of a marker buoy and reel or someone who wants to purchase a DSMB and reel set up but isn’t sure which of the many different styles is best for them. If you took your Open Water Diver course prior to the latest revision you may not even have been shown how to use this important piece of kit, so this course is ideal for you.

The speciality is open to anyone with an Open Water Diver rating or higher.

What Will You Learn?

Through a theory presentation, dry land practice and two dives in open water you’re going to learn how to safely deploy a delayed surface marker buoy, and how to ascent efficiently using one. Over the course of the day, you will have a chance to practice with different styles of DSMB including those filled from a low-pressure inflator hose, those with self inflate mechanisms and simple open-bottomed styles too, so you gain an understanding of the pros and cons of each. We will also look at what style of line carrying system you prefer, from a large reel to a simple spool.

What Scuba Gear Will You Use?

You will need all your regular scuba kit, and any reels and marker buoys you have. If you have yet to buy a DSMB, reel or spool we will provide a variety for you to use for the duration of the course. This will help you when you come to purchasing your own in the future.