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Advanced Open Water Diver

Also: AOWD, AOW

Advanced Open Water is a certification that goes beyond basic reef diving. Most divers take this course because it unlocks access to deeper sites. You typically learn to dive to 30 m instead of the standard 18 m limit. This training covers specific specialties like deep diving, navigation, or night dives. I saw many students struggle with buoyancy during their deep dive module in Koh Tao back in 2018. They often descend too fast because they focus on the depth gauge rather than their breath control. Keep your eyes on your pressure gauge while you navigate. You need to manage your air consumption carefully when you go below 25 m. This course is the standard next step for any serious diver.