Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): Workshop
- All Core Scuba Equipment
- All Course Materials and Certification
- Services of your Highly Trained and Professional Instructor and Support Team
There are lots of reasons. As many instructors will tell you, the deployment and use of a Surface Marker Buoy can be tricky (its not - just requires a little bit of training and the right SMB and reel for you and the environment its going to be used in), but using it incorrectly can lead to accidents.
But at the same time, SMB's are a valuable piece of advanced diving equipment that provides a vertical reference line during open-water ascents. They also provide a visual surface reference for a diver’s location, which is invaluable to your boat skipper and a vital staging point for completing decompression and safety stops.
A highly practical course where you will learn about the different types of SMB and the differences between them. Learning and practising deployment whilst using each of the different types and different types of reels.
You will also learn how to resolve potential issues that can occur underwater allowing you and your buddy to remain safe.
All of this is to allow you to assess which combination of Reel and SMB works for you and how to configure it in conjunction with your existing dive equipment whilst maintaining trim and buoyancy.
Open Water Dives: Two Dives
2 Dives over one day in open water
We loan you various SMB's and Reels for you to practise and use during your training with us.
If you have your own DSMB & Reel then make sure you bring them along, you can use yours to gain confidence in your own equipment.
Entrance fees for open water site and personal travel costs.
Will I get a certifcation card?
This is a workshop not a formal speciality, however you will be provided with a recognition 'card' visible in the SSI app.
Join our Dive Club
Come diving
Go Diving
NB: 31st December is a holding course, if a date is not published or convienent for you.. book this option and we will be in touch to arrange a mutually convienent date
Prior to any Diver training course students need to complete a Mandatory Medical Questionaire.
Please ensure that you have read the Medical Statement and are sure that you will be able to commence any diver training PRIOR to paying as our Training Terms Conditions apply after payment has been made.
A doctor's confirmation of fitness to dive is required if you answer YES to any medical condition on the Medical Statement.
Please note that if you need a Physician signoff most of our local surgeries WILL NOT sign this form, we suggest you contact Midlands Dive Chamber 01788 579 555 in this instance.
You can check out the Medical Statement here:
PADI Courses:
PADI Medical Statement
SSI Courses:
The 25m heated swimming pool at Oakham School's Leisure Centre is perfect for scuba diver training and kids' diving courses. This state-of-the-art facility provides laned sections for focused training and a comfortable, warm environment, ensuring an ideal learning experience for divers of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're refining your technique or introducing children to the wonders of diving, our pool offers the perfect setting.
Our pool session(s) are on Saturday evenings from 18:00 - 20:00, with a meet at the Dive Centre prior (this time will be confirmed when you book). The time at the Dive Centre is spent on various activities depending on which course you are undertaking but for all first session this will involve introducing you to your instructor, the dive equipment you will be using in the pool, a safety briefing and the evenings activities. During non term time then we have a pool session available on a Thursday from 19:00 - 21:00.
First Aid
Our team of highly experienced instructors will be on hand to guide you through every step of the way
★★★★★Outstanding experience especially for young divers!
We had an absolutely fantastic experience with dive Rutland ! Tracy and the entire team was very friendly, helpful, and professional from start to finish. They went above and beyond to support our 13 year old for their open water course and her drysuit training.
What really stood out was the patience and care shown throughout the process. The instructors took the time to explain everything clearly, made our
daughter feel confident and safe , and ensured they progressed at a comfortable pace. It was never rushed - just supportive , thorough instructions from a team who clearly loves what they do.
Highly recommend Dive Rutland to anyone - especially families or younger divers. We’re so grateful for the experience and can’t wait to come back!Simon PerrinUK
★★★★★#1 training centre in my eyes. The team are friendly, courteous and astute to your individual needs and capability. Of course you’d expect to come away with a certification after paying your money; however, you come away with far more than the basic knowledge and skills to pass the certification, you come away feeling capable and competent and with a group of people you want to keep in touch with as friends and dive with more. Keep it up Dive Rutland!
Mark ConnellyUK
★★★★★Thank you for a great insightful course, which made me appreciate more what was happening around me during my diving trips.The patience and knowledge of all the staff made it a great experience overall.See you in the water soon
Agnes WelhamUK
★★★★★Drysuit Speciality - Was excellent. From the first briefing at the shop. To the pool dive. To the real thing at Stoney Cove (my first time there!). Great mix of professional efficiency with real world fun. Always felt safe. Not the best of weather, but I stayed bone dry. No hesitation in recommending Tracey and the team to anyone considering taking up diving, like me. But be warned, it’s addictive!! Special thanks to Rob
John LawerenceUK
★★★★★Outstanding experience especially for young divers!
We had an absolutely fantastic experience with dive Rutland ! Tracy and the entire team was very friendly, helpful, and professional from start to finish. They went above and beyond to support our 13 year old for their open water course and her drysuit training.
What really stood out was the patience and care shown throughout the process. The instructors took the time to explain everything clearly, made our
daughter feel confident and safe , and ensured they progressed at a comfortable pace. It was never rushed - just supportive , thorough instructions from a team who clearly loves what they do.
Highly recommend Dive Rutland to anyone - especially families or younger divers. We’re so grateful for the experience and can’t wait to come back!Simon HunterUK