Quote: (Originally Posted by shell-back)
While this maybe debated with fiercely, I find the concept not at all out of Line.
This is what I suggest:
Train a new student on a rebreather from the start. No Open water OC diver cert needed.
If the current agencies can not support this , Start a rebrether only agency, that maintains its focus on safe rebreather training and market towards the advancement of rebreathers in the mainstream. Form a rebreather training,equipment concensus council. Allow the current Rebreather manufactures and instructors to make the standards and educate the "industry" on what rebreather are all about.
in short sleave terms , get our **** together and promote.
I know its sounds like a pipe dream, then again 15 years ago Technical diving was taboo as Rebreather's are today.
I remember reading where a PADI facility (in Asia I think) was training OW divers on the Dolphin. Although this may not be exactly what you are looking for I think it's on the right track and if it could be done within PADI standards an agency that has real CCR instructors should be able to sign off on it.