Mark Paisey reports from a combined Open Water Instructor / Advanced Instructor event held in Cyprus
Establishing a baseline for the survey
Andy and Ciara on the instructional skill-based dive
A classic combo
Mark Paisey reports from a combined Open Water Instructor / Advanced Instructor event held in Cyprus
Fun in the sun with ( l-r ) Andy Hunt , Gerrard Spears and Ronan Carter
Overseas Combined Instructor Events have returned for BSAC members as an option to complete their ITS courses in warm and clear water . Cyprus-based Divestop recently hosted two weeks of events , beginning with the Advanced Instructor Course and Exam ( AIC / AIE ) followed by the Open Water Instructor ( OWI ) courses and exams .
In total , 14 BSAC members from the UK , Ireland and Dubai made the journey in November , hoping to complete their chosen instructor journey . Cyprus is not new to BSAC members because it benefits from year-round sunshine and clear water , with a sea temperature range of 21 ° C in the winter to 27 ° C in the summer .
It therefore makes an ideal base in the UK winter months , allowing members the opportunity to train , when diving in the UK is a cold and unpredictable affair . Overseas events require the help of a local dive centre for logistical support ; Divestop provided this , acting as local organiser as well as providing transport , RIB services and gas and equipment .
Having such a capable local facilitator enables the instructor team to concentrate on the combined events , which are a busy experience for candidates and instructors alike . Accommodation is self-catering in an off-season apartment block close to the
46