Scuba diving is a thrilling activity that allows you to explore the underwater world and witness the beauty of marine life. However, it requires special skills and knowledge to safely navigate underwater. The PADI Underwater Navigator course is designed to help divers refine their navigation skills and learn to accurately use a compass underwater. In this report, we will discuss the UW Navigator course offered by PADI, including its description, academic content, and required equipment.

The PADI Underwater Navigator course is ideal for PADI (Junior) Open Water Divers who are at least 10 years old and want to improve their navigation skills. During the course, divers will learn to use natural clues and follow compass headings to navigate underwater. The course consists of three scuba dives, during which divers will practice various navigation techniques, including estimating distance underwater, compass navigation while making at least five turns, marking or relocating a submerged object or position from the surface, and underwater map making.

underwater photo of a sweet lip fish with open mouth and a cleaner fish in the mouth cleaning, facing the camera

In addition to refining navigation skills, the UW Navigator course offers other benefits. Divers who successfully complete the course may be eligible for college credit and can count the first dive towards their Advanced Open Water Diver certification. The course also provides an opportunity for divers to have fun while improving their skills.

To enroll in the course, divers must have their basic scuba equipment, a compass, and an underwater slate. Instructors may suggest additional equipment such as marker buoys or lines and reels to help divers stay oriented.

In conclusion, the PADI Underwater Navigator course is an excellent opportunity for divers to refine their navigation skills and learn to accurately use a compass underwater. The course offers various benefits, including college credit and credit towards Advanced Open Water Diver certification. With the right equipment and guidance from a qualified instructor, divers can enjoy the challenge and rewards of navigating underwater.

UW Navigator

The PADI Underwater Navigator course is designed for PADI Open Water Divers who wish to refine their navigation skills and learn how to use a compass underwater. The course consists of three scuba dives where divers will learn to navigate using natural clues and compass headings, estimate distance, mark or relocate a submerged object, and make an underwater map. Upon completion of the course, divers may be eligible for college credit and can count the first dive towards their Advanced Open Water Diver certification.

PADI UW Navigator • 3 Dives • $467.50

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split shot - half under water, half on top - of a woman floating in Jellyfish lake Palau with jellyfish in the foreground