The PADI Enriched Air Diver course, commonly known as the Nitrox course, is the most popular PADI specialty. It allows divers to extend their bottom time by using air with a higher oxygen content (up to 40%), reducing nitrogen absorption, which can lead to shorter surface intervals and longer dive times.

Who Can Take This Course?

Open to PADI Open Water Divers (or equivalent certification) aged 12 and above
Ideal for divers who want to maximize their time underwater, especially for multi-dive days, deep dives, and liveaboard trips
What You’ll Learn:
Understanding Enriched Air (Nitrox) – How it affects dive physiology and why it allows longer bottom times
Oxygen Exposure and Safety – Managing oxygen exposure limits and understanding risks
Analyzing Nitrox Tanks – Properly using an oxygen analyzer and setting your dive computer
Planning and Executing Nitrox Dives – Using enriched air within safe depth limits
Course Structure:
Knowledge Development (eLearning or classroom session) covering gas theory, safety considerations, and dive planning
Practical Application: Hands-on experience with analyzing nitrox cylinders and adjusting dive computers
Optional Dives: While the course does not require dives, you can choose to add two enriched air dives to apply what you’ve learned

Benefits of Diving with Nitrox:
✔ Longer no-decompression limits (more time underwater!)
✔ Shorter surface intervals (less waiting between dives)
✔ Reduced nitrogen load (less fatigue after dives)
✔ Ideal for multiple dives per day (perfect for dive trips and liveaboards)