Clean the Reef: PADI Dive Against Debris Course

Turn Your Dive into a Mission for the Ocean

PADI Dive Against Debris Specialty Course in Islamorada, FL

Join Key Dives in the heart of the Florida Keys to become more than just a visitor to the reef. The Dive Against Debris Specialty is designed for divers who want to take direct action. You will learn the professional techniques required to safely remove marine litter and, more importantly, how to report your findings to global databases that influence environmental policy.

Protect what you love. Leave the reef better than you found it.

Course Overview

• Duration: 1 Day
• Instructor Ratio: 1:4 (Small groups for personalized safety and guidance)
• Age Requirement: 10 Years+
• Prerequisite: Open Water Diver Certification
• Total Cost: $225 (Includes eLearning + Instruction)

Why Train with Key Dives?

At Key Dives, we are committed to the health of our local Islamorada reefs. This isn't just a certification; it's a practical workshop in environmental stewardship.

• Expert Guidance: Learn from instructors who are active in local conservation.
• Dual Affiliation: As both a PADI and SSI Center, we provide training that meets the highest global standards.
• Meaningful Impact: Every piece of debris you find is logged into the Project AWARE® database, providing scientists with the data needed to advocate for our oceans.

Your Training Schedule

1. Knowledge Development

Before hitting the water, you will master the theory of marine conservation. We cover the life cycle of marine litter, which items pose the greatest threat to Islamorada’s ecosystems, and the specific protocols for reporting data.

2. The Survey Dive

Head out to one of our local dive sites for a hands-on cleanup. Under professional supervision, you will:

• Identify and safely retrieve submerged debris.
• Use specialized tools and lift bags for heavier objects.
• Maintain perfect buoyancy to ensure the reef remains untouched during the process.
• Sort and categorize your haul using official data cards.

3. Data Submission

The mission doesn't end when you surface. You’ll finalize your report for submission to the global database, turning your underwater work into a tangible contribution to international marine science.

What’s Included

• eLearning & Course Work: All digital materials included.
• Professional Instruction: Hands-on training with a 1:4 ratio.
• Certification Dives: Guided cleanup dives in Islamorada.
• Debris Tools: Use of collection bags and lift equipment.

Minimum Requirements

• Certification: Must hold an Open Water Diver rating.
• Age: 10 years or older.
• Health: Completed medical questionnaire required.
• Mindset: A genuine passion for ocean health.