Mermaid
- In order to participate in PADI courses or programs, all student divers must complete paperwork, such as a brief medical questionnaire that asks about medical conditions that could be a problem while diving.
The PADI Basic Mermaid™ course combines learning supporting knowledge and principles with a confined water skill development session to introduce the fun of fundamental mermaid diving. The course covers mermaid diving’s background and culture, primary safety considerations, equipment, and basic water skills.
Requirements to enroll: Be at least six years old – Able to swim at least 25m/80ft without swim aids – Able to float comfortably at the surface for at least 3 minutes – Be in good physical health* – No prior snorkeling, skin diving, or freediving course completion is required.
Content: Independent study using the PADI Basic Mermaid eLearning
A pool, or pool-like, session to learn and practice basic mermaid diving skills, problem prevention, and handling, and how to make mermaid dives.
Required Equipment: Monofin & mermaid tail – Mask, snorkel, and fins – Wetsuit or thermal protection is recommended
The PADI Mermaid™ course includes knowledge development and at least two water skill sessions that develop more dynamic mermaid skills beyond Basic Mermaid™, including many skills that make mermaiding an underwater self-expressive art, separate from other types of diving. (Note that the PADI Mermaid course includes Basic Mermaid, so you can start with PADI Mermaid – there is no need to take Basic Mermaid separately.)
Requirements to enroll: Be at least ten years old – Able to swim at least 50m/160ft without swim aids – Able to float comfortably at the surface for at least 5 minutes – Be in good physical health – As an entry-level mermaid diving course, no prior experience with diving of any kind is required.
Content: Independent study using the PADI Mermaid eLearning, Two pool sessions to learn and prepare for mermaiding, rescue/problem management skills, and the conduct of mermaid dives. You also learn mermaid skills, such as dolphin (butterfly) kicks, C-shape and U-shape side turns, and some skills distinct to mermaid diving, including backward somersault turn, underwater handshaking mermaid bubbles, and back glides.
Required Equipment: Monofin & mermaid tail – Mask, snorkel, and fins – Wetsuit or thermal protection is recommended
In the PADI Advanced Mermaid™ course, you’ll build on your PADI Mermaid™ certification and apply it to the open water environment. You’ll learn the basics of how the open water environment differs from a pool or confined water (larger, deeper, more variable conditions) and be introduced to open water mermaiding techniques. You’ll also learn about aquatic life – what to expect, how it can affect you, and how you avoid harm.
Requirements to enroll: Be 12 years old or older – PADI Mermaid certification (or qualifying certification from another mermaid organization) – Able to swim at least 100m/320ft without swim aids – Able to float comfortably at the surface for at least 10 mins – Be in good physical health*
Content: Independent study using the PADI Advanced Mermaid eLearning, Open water sessions (lake, river, or quarry), suited to mermaid diving in which you learn and practice the set-up, conduct, and execution of open water mermaid dives, including environmentally friendly mermaid diving techniques.
Equipment: Monofin & mermaid tail – Mask, snorkel, and fins – Adequate wetsuit or thermal protection for local weather is mandatory
In the PADI Mermaid Instructor course, you’ll learn how to plan and deliver PADI Mermaid certifications.
The PADI Mermaid Instructor Course goals are to ensure you understand the PADI Mermaid program structure, philosophy, requirements, and procedures. Prepare you to teach courses that are low-stress, performance-based, safety-oriented, and learner-centered. Refine your mermaid skills to a role-model level. Provide you with practical suggestions for organizing and marketing your courses.
Requirements to enroll:
18 years old
PADI Advanced Mermaid certification (or qualifying certification from another mermaid organization)
Completed EFR Primary and Secondary Care training (or have a qualifying certification) within the last 24 months.
Current medical statement signed by a physician within the previous 12 months
Content:
Complete Mermaid Instructor Course knowledge development sections.
Successfully complete Mermaid Instructor Exam with a passing score of at least 75 percent.
Complete four in-water workshops (Basic water skills, Mermaid skills, Rescue and assistance skills, and Teaching presentations).
Required Materials & Equipment:
PADI Mermaid Program Instructor Guide – Mask, snorkel, bifins appropriate for freediving – Weight belt and weights in small increments – Monofin & mermaid tail – Wetsuit or thermal protection is recommended