Overview
The RAID Advanced 35 is an advanced scuba diving certification course designed for certified Open Water divers who want to develop their underwater skills and progress to deeper recreational diving.
Conducted in Havelock Island, Andaman, the programme normally takes 2–3 days and includes 5–6 training dives. The course focuses on practical in-water learning rather than a lengthy classroom programme. Knowledge sessions and reviews are completed alongside the diving activities or through RAID's online learning platform.
The training begins with buoyancy and trim, helping divers improve their horizontal position, hovering and overall underwater control. A dedicated navigation dive introduces compass bearings, reciprocal headings, distance estimation and natural navigation techniques.
The programme also includes a mandatory deep dive progressing to approximately 30–35 metres. During this dive, participants learn practical deep-diving considerations such as gas management, controlled ascent procedures and awareness of depth-related effects.
Participants then complete three elective training dives based on available options and conditions. Electives may include drift diving, boat diving, search and recovery, or night diving. The final selection is subject to operational, weather and sea conditions.
The course accepts Open Water certifications from recognised diving agencies. There is no specified minimum number of logged dives, although recent diving experience is recommended. Divers who have not been underwater recently may be offered a short refresher dive before starting the advanced training.
After completing the required dives and knowledge reviews, participants receive the RAID Advanced 35 certification and digital certification card, subject to meeting the course requirements.
Itinerary
- Day 1
Buoyancy & Navigation
Begin with course briefing and knowledge review. Complete the mandatory buoyancy and trim dive, followed by compass and natural navigation training.
- Day 2
Deep Dive & Elective
Complete the deep dive progressing to approximately 30–35 m, focusing on gas management and controlled ascent procedures. Complete the first selected elective dive.
- Day 3
Electives & Certification
Complete the remaining two elective dives, subject to conditions and course requirements. Finish knowledge reviews and certification processing.
Difficulty and fitness
Good general fitness, swimming ability and medical fitness for advanced scuba diving.
- Stay physically active, sleep well, hydrate and avoid alcohol before diving.
What to bring
Complete the RAID e-learning modules before arrival where possible and review your Open Water skills. If you have not dived recently, inform the instructor so a refresher session can be considered.
Essentials
- Open Water certification card, swimwear, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, water bottle and snacks.
Getting there
Meet at the designated dive center in Havelock as instructed after booking.
Travel to Port Blair and take a ferry or approved transport connection to Havelock Island. Reach the designated dive centre as instructed after booking.
Trip details
Included
- RAID Advanced 35 certification
- 5–6 training dives
- Diving equipment
- Dive computer
- Boat fees
- RAID e-learning access
- Digital dive logbook
- Instructor-led training
Not included
- Accommodation and meals
- Personal travel expenses
- Personal diving accessories
- Optional camera or equipment rentals
- Medical examination, if required
Before you book
A recognised Open Water certification is required. Dive sites, elective choices and timings may change according to weather, sea conditions and operational requirements. Medical fitness must be confirmed before participating.
Safety notes
Follow all instructor instructions and planned depth limits. Deep diving requires proper gas management and controlled ascents. Dive activities depend on weather, currents, visibility and sea conditions.
Participant requirements
Full name, age, contact details, Open Water certification, last dive date and relevant medical information.
Your operator
Trip reviews
Loading reviews