Course overview

The SSI Navigation specialty builds the skills to find your way confidently underwater, which matters on Alor's current-swept reefs and walls. You learn compass and natural-reference techniques, distance estimation and pattern navigation so you always know where the boat and exit lie, even when the current is running.

What you’ll learn

• Follow accurate compass headings and reciprocal courses
• Navigate using natural references like reef slope and contours
• Estimate distance with kick cycles and timing
• Run square and search patterns
• Relocate an object or anchor underwater
• Plan navigation around Alor's currents

Prerequisites

• Minimum age 10 (junior certification for younger divers)
• SSI Open Water Diver or equivalent
• Comfortable with basic buoyancy
• Able to manage mild current
• Diver medical clearance signed by a physician

What's included · What's not

Probability of sightings · month-by-month

What you're likely to see each month, based on historic operator logs.

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day1
   Compass & natural navigation

   Master compass and natural-reference technique on a Kalabahi reef, practising headings and distance estimation.
2. Day2
   Patterns & current

   Run pattern and search navigation on a current-affected site, learning to compensate for drift.

Verified through iDive

Every partner school in the iDive network is vetted on safety, instructor credentials, equipment standards and student feedback. Talk to a iDive dive pro on WhatsApp for current availability and reviews specific to Alor.

Frequently asked questions