CCR Diving and Rebreather Courses at Lagona Divers – Technical

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Guided CCR Diving in Dahab

Dahab is an absolute gem for CCR diving enthusiasts. The calm seas and minimal currents make it a breeze to dive, providing a safe and relaxed environment for both recreational and technical divers. The crystal-clear waters of Dahab offer fantastic visibility, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning underwater landscapes and vibrant marine life.

Whether you’re exploring the famous Blue Hole, navigating the canyons, or discovering hidden reefs, Dahab’s diverse dive sites provide endless opportunities for CCR Diving. At Lagona Divers Technical, we pride ourselves on being a CCR-friendly dive center.

Our commitment to CCR diving is demonstrated through our state-of-the-art facilities and the expertise of our instructors. Andy and Kerstin, our main instructors, have personally trained several members of our staff to be proficient CCR divers, ensuring that you receive the highest level of support and guidance during your dives. CCR divers will find a dedicated room at our center where they can assemble their units in peace and comfort.

We understand the importance of having the right equipment for your dives, which is why we offer a range of CCR tank sizes from 2L to 3L with inline valves, available in both steel and aluminum. Additionally, we have dedicated tanks specifically for the X-CCR and CCR Triton units, ensuring that all your equipment needs are met.

Our goal is to provide everything you need for CCR diving! Ensuring that you have a seamless and enjoyable CCR diving experience!

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CCR Courses in Dahab

Choosing to undertake a CCR (Closed-Circuit Rebreather) course in Dahab with Lagona Divers Technical offers numerous advantages for CCR Diving. Our team, led by the highly experienced instructors Andy and Kerstin, boasts over 12 years of expertise as full-time technical diving instructors.

Their dedication to safety and high-quality teaching ensures that each student receives the time and attention needed to fully understand the skills and real-life applications of CCR diving. At Lagona Divers Technical, we prioritize a comprehensive understanding of CCR Diving equipment. We ensure that every student is well-versed in the features and functionality of their specific rebreather units. This detailed knowledge is crucial for safe and effective diving.

One of the unique benefits of training with us is the close proximity of our facilities. The short distance from the classroom to the confined water training areas, and then to the open water dive sites, maximizes efficiency and minimizes transfer times. This setup allows students to get the most out of their course, even during long training days.

Our house reef at Lagona Divers South is perfect for training. It features shallow sandy areas ideal for confined water sessions, as well as depths up to 45 meters with a beautiful reef for more advanced training.

For the deeper CCR Diving Courses Dahab offers some of the most prestigious deep diving sites in the world, providing an unparalleled training experience.

Frequently asked Questions about CCR Diving

With open-circuit (OC) diving equipment, divers use only a fraction of the oxygen provided by their tanks. Each exhalation releases unused oxygen into the surrounding water, where it is lost forever. In contrast, closed-circuit rebreathers (CCRs) operate by recycling the breathing mixture within a loop. To maintain a constant partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2), small amounts of oxygen are injected into the exhaled gas (either manually or automatically) to replace the oxygen metabolized by the diver. Meanwhile, carbon dioxide produced by the diver is absorbed by the scrubber. This process continuously changes the composition of the breathing mixture during the dive.

Mechanical vs. Electronic Rebreathers

Choosing between a mechanical (mCCR) and an electronic (eCCR) closed-circuit rebreather (CCR) involves understanding their key differences. Here’s a summary:

Mechanical Rebreathers (mCCR):

  • Manual Oxygen Management: Divers manually adjust oxygen levels by adding oxygen through a manual add valve (MAV) to maintain the desired partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2).
  • Simplicity: These units are straightforward, with fewer potential failure points. They operate based on mechanical principles and require manual adjustments.
  • Constant Monitoring: Divers must continuously monitor their ppO2, reducing complacency and ensuring they are always aware of their gas levels.
  • Robustness: Due to their simple design, mechanical rebreathers are often more durable and easier to repair in the field.

Electronic Rebreathers (eCCR):

  • Automated Oxygen Control: Sensors and a computer system automatically regulate the oxygen levels to maintain the set ppO2.
  • Convenience: Automation allows divers to focus on their dive, rather than constantly adjusting oxygen levels.
  • Enhanced Features: eCCRs typically include advanced features like heads-up displays (HUDs) and integrated electronics for easier monitoring and control.
  • Increased Complexity: More electronic components mean more potential failure points, requiring divers to be familiar with troubleshooting and maintenance.

Both mCCRs and eCCRs have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. The choice depends on the diver’s preferences, experience, and diving objectives. It is always advisable to try different models and seek advice from experienced divers or instructors before making a decision.

Gas Efficiency: With each exhalation being recycled and enriched with oxygen, the amount of gas you need to carry is significantly reduced. This is particularly beneficial for trimix dives, as helium costs can be quite high. However, always ensure you have an adequate bailout plan for any dive to safely reach the surface in case of an emergency.

Extended No Decompression Times: Rebreathers allow you to dive with a fixed partial pressure of O2, which changes with depth, unlike open-circuit systems. This means you’re exposed to the lowest possible concentration of inert gas, resulting in longer no decompression times and more efficient decompression profiles.

Warm Gas: In open-circuit systems, gas expands and cools as it passes through the first stage, reaching the diver as cold. In contrast, a closed-circuit rebreather reuses the same gas with small additions, providing warmer and moister gas, which helps keep you warmer during the dive.

Bubbleless Silence: While you may produce some bubbles during ascents due to expanding gas, in between you’ll experience moments of absolute silence. This is especially advantageous for observing aquatic life, as it minimizes disturbance and creates a more immersive experience.

Costs: Closed-circuit rebreathers (CCRs) are quite expensive, and the cost goes beyond the initial purchase. Additional expenses include annual servicing, replacing oxygen cells, purchasing sorb and helium, and undergoing training. Despite the high cost, CCRs can be a cost-effective option for longer and deeper dives, where using open-circuit (OC) gear would either be impossible or waste a significant amount of helium.

Complexity: Although the basic principle of a CCR is straightforward—removing CO2 and adding O2—it’s important to remember that we’re dealing with the essential gas we breathe. The increased complexity necessitates proper handling and maintenance of the unit, including pre-dive preparation and regular upkeep. Training to master essential skills is also crucial.

Buoyancy Control: Unlike OC diving, where buoyancy can be adjusted through breathing patterns, CCR divers can’t control buoyancy this way. On a rebreather, you only shift gas between your lungs and the counterlungs, so the volume remains in constant contact with your body and doesn’t influence buoyancy.

Travel Considerations: Traveling with a rebreather requires an extra bag, which needs to be considered when planning your trip. Additionally, not all dive centers are rebreather-friendly, so it’s important to check if they have sorb available and can fill CCR tanks. It’s also wise to verify if spare parts are accessible or if it’s better to bring your own kit.

Increased Risk: The complexity of CCRs introduces risks that are not present in OC diving. Commitment to CCR diving involves a high level of self-discipline and a willingness to learn and practice essential skills. Without proper training and dedication, the diver and their buddy could face significant challenges and potential hazards.

What Rebreathers we teach at Lagona Divers Technical!

The X-CCR rebreather is designed for extreme expeditions, blending ease of use with state-of-the-art technology. Rated to 100 meters and tested to 150 meters during manufacturing, this unit is produced by iQsub in the Czech Republic and distributed by SubGravity in Utah, USA, following extensive testing and exploration.

Chosen by many top explorers in the industry, the X-CCR rebreather stands out for its reliability, robustness, and ease of maintenance. In addition to the general benefits of all rebreathers, it boasts some unique features that make it exceptionaly good for CCR Diving!

X-CCR Rebreather Features

Let’s take a look at the X-CCR rebreather’s main features.

FeatureFunction
Radial ScrubberDuration of up to 6 hours at depths of up to 150 metres, with very low flow resistance
Integrated Shearwater TechnologySupporting 5 CC and 5 OC gases, Bühlmann + GF algorithm with optional VPM-B algorithm, no lock-out mode, CNS monitoring, two PPO2 set points with optional automatic switching, firmware updates downloadable, integrated tilted compass
DiveCAN® digital communication electronics system with Head-Up Display (HUD)Robust error-resistant communications, parts can easily be swapped out for repairs and travel, modular design increases redundancy of individual parts
Back or front mounted counter lungsConfigurable for diver preference
Breathing hoses made of EPDM rubberVery UV, salt and grease resistant
Quick Bayonet Lock system on headIndustry unique, provides quick access to the O-ring
Oxygen and diluent tanks between 2-7L can be mountedConfigurable for diver preference
Solenoid and Oxygen electronics (SOLO) boardManages PPO2 via 3 O2 sensors, monitors CO2, monitors battery life, failure-tolerant modular system (continues to manage PP02 in the event of short circuits or communication failures)
Two Li-Ion Lithium Batteries 18650Independent and redundant, located outside the breathing loop to prevent contamination
Bailout Valve (BOV) ShrimpMaking for easy switching to open circuit in bailout scenario 

Standout Features of the X-CCR Rebreather

The X-CCR rebreather boasts several remarkable features that set it apart. The Quick Bayonet Lock System simplifies the assembly and disassembly of the unit, making it much more user-friendly.

Additionally, the removable sensor cartridges can be easily taken out between dives, allowing for efficient drying.

The high-pressure hoses are designed to feed directly into the unit’s head, eliminating the need for dangling SPG hoses and further streamlining the X-CCR.

Furthermore, the multi-outlet oxygen and diluent manifolds enable out-board gases, such as bailout gases and oxygen, to be connected directly via the Swagelok QC6 system. This feature ensures that, in the event of running out of on-board diluent or oxygen, you can quickly connect off-board gases to continue performing diluent flushes, maintain your PPO2 in the loop, and carry out other vital functions. This capability makes the X the best Unit for CCR Diving!

Why Choose the Triton CCR Rebreather?

The Triton CCR rebreather stands out for its unique features and benefits, making it one of the top choices for CCR diving today. In addition to the common advantages of rebreathers, the Triton offers several distinctive qualities.

The Triton CCR rebreather is the lightest model available, weighing only 7kg. This lightweight design allows you to travel with ease, avoiding excessive luggage fees. Plus, you can keep your Triton CCR with you throughout your journey, never having to part with it at airport check-ins.

Furthermore, the Triton is the only civilian chest-mounted CCR on the market and the only mechanical closed-circuit rebreather (mCCR) to be CE rated for depths up to 100 meters.

At Lagona Divers Technical, we’ve been pushing the boundaries with the Triton CCR, exploring uncharted canyon systems below 100 meters in Dahab.

Manufactured by Multi Safety Support System (M3S) in France, the Triton CCR has proven its reliability and robustness in diverse and challenging conditions. It was the rebreather of choice for Fréderic Swierczynski when he set the world record for diving at altitude, and it played a crucial role in the Tham Luang cave rescue operation in 2018.

The Triton CCR’s compact, chest-mounted design makes it highly versatile and adaptable to various diving environments. Whether you’re diving deep ocean or exploring caves and wrecks, the Triton CCR is up to the task. The Triton CCR rebreather offers versatile configuration options, including sidemount, twinset, or single tank setups. For extreme exploration dives, it can also function as a bailout rebreather when used in tandem with the X-CCR. This flexibility makes the Triton CCR adaptable to any diving environment. Whether you’re venturing into deep open ocean waters, engaging in close-encounters with marine wildlife, or exploring caves and wrecks, the Triton CCR rebreather is designed to meet all your diving needs.

Triton CCR Rebreather Key Features

Here’s an overview of the main features the Triton CCR rebreather has to offer.

FeatureFunction
Large 3D developed inhalation counterlung Minimises hydrostatic work of breathing (WOB)
7kg travel weight (12kg when ready to dive)Lightweight, convenient for travel
Uses a quick-connect system plus safety clips for all counterlung connectionsEasy to use, prevent false clipping
Connections are colour-coded, with fresh gas being white and used gas being blackEasily identifiable and prevents false clipping 
Kevlar bag houses the counterlungs, scrubber and oxygen sensorsTough, durable material that protects the contents and reduces the overall weight of the unit
2 transparent silicone breathing hoses with anti-bacterial treatmentTransparent material makes for easy internal visual inspection 
Breathing hose shapeUnique design of the breathing hoses provides maximum freedom of movement for the head as well as a low work of breathing (WOB)
Custom-designed mushroom valves in DSV (Diver Supply Valve)Keeps work of breathing (WOB) minimal
All plastic parts are made from POM-C DelrinHighly durable material
DSV constructed with easy fit circlipsMakes for easy assembly and disassembly 
3 Oxygen sensorsMonitors PP02
Triton Oxygen first stageOxygen clean
300 bar DIN
1 HP and 4 LP ports
Fixed intermediate pressure between 11.5-11.7 bar
Pressure relief valve prevents free-flow in case of intermediate pressure increase 
O2 M3S Valve1 Manual O2 add and 1 constant mass flow valve. Flow rate of 0.70 lpm. Made out of marine grade stainless steel
Diluent feed to ADV has a flow stop and simple quick-connect hoseOff-board gas can be connected and used as a diluent
M3S Triton Monox O2 MonitorHandset and head-up-display (HUD) can be mounted left or right, and supplies PPO2 information. Both are rechargeable
Optional secondary Shearwater Petrel 2 computer plus NERD 2Supporting 5 CC and 5 OC gases, Bühlmann + GF algorithm with optional VPM-B algorithm, no lock-out mode, CNS monitoring, two PPO2 set points with optional automatic switching, firmware updates downloadable, integrated tilted compass. NERD 2 works as a HUD, conveniently displaying dive information
2.2 kg Axial scrubberContains CO2 absorbent and is located in the protective Kevlar bag. The design of the scrubber/canister guarantees optimised thermal isolation. The canister top is secured with a locking ring and bottom is fitted with 2 o-rings, preventing CO2 channelling
1.5 Litre Aluminium/2.5 Litre Steel Oxygen tankClipped underneath the Kevlar bag, with easy, quick access to the handwheel. Ability to choose tank capacity and metal type to suit your preferences

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Why Choose the Hollis Prism 2 Rebreather?

The Hollis Prism 2 rebreather stands out for its versatility and advanced features, making it a top choice for divers seeking a reliable and efficient CCR unit. Unlike standard rebreathers, the Prism 2 offers a range of customization options, including front-mounted or back-mounted counterlungs, and the ability to use air, trimix, or heliox gases.

Weighing approximately 21 kg, the Prism 2 is designed for ease of use and minimal hydrostatic loading, ensuring comfortable and efficient breathing even at greater depths. Its modular design allows for easy maintenance and upgrades, making it a long-term investment for people which think seriously about CCR diving.

The Prism 2 is known for its low work of breathing, thanks to its radial scrubber design and efficient gas delivery systems. This makes it ideal for extended CCR diving and challenging environments, whether you’re exploring open ocean, caves, or wrecks.

With its comprehensive control systems, including a primary heads-down display and an independent analog secondary display, the Prism 2 provides divers with real-time monitoring and easy access to critical information. The unit also features convenient purge drains and external power switches, enhancing its usability and reliability.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out with CCR diving, the Hollis Prism 2 rebreather offers the flexibility, performance, and reliability needed to tackle any diving adventure.

CCR Courses Details

Whether you’ve decided to embark on your CCR diving journey or you’re looking for the prerequisites for your next level of certification, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find all the essential information you need to take the plunge and elevate your diving experience. The course structure for rebreather diving varies slightly between agencies, and there are different pathways depending on your prerequisites. For simplicity, divers often categorize CCR Diving courses into MOD 1, 2, and 3 levels. While these are not official certification terms, they provide a good general overview of the progression you can take within CCR Diving. Before we dive into the specific details, let’s give you an overview of the general pathway.

CCR Diving in Dahab.

MOD 1

The MOD 1 course serves as the initial step into the world of CCR diving. Depending on your current diving qualifications, the course can be tailored to different depths and diving conditions. For recreational divers looking to start CCR diving, this course involves dives up to 30 meters without decompression stops.

For those with Open Circuit Technical (OC Tec) experience, the course can include dives up to 40 meters with decompression on air or up to 45 meters with decompression using a trimix blend. No matter your starting point, the MOD 1 course is designed to build a solid foundation in CCR diving, ensuring you gain the skills and confidence needed to progress safely.

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MOD 2

After completing the MOD 1 course, divers are encouraged to build up their experience with at least 50 dives and 50 hours on their unit, including a certain number of decompression dives. The MOD 2 course is designed to take your CCR diving skills to the next level, allowing you to dive to depths of up to 60 meters using trimix gas and perform unlimited decompression time.

This advanced course ensures that you are well-prepared for deeper and more challenging dives, providing you with the knowledge and skills needed to safely explore the underwater world at greater depths. Through comprehensive training and hands-on experience, the MOD 2 course will enhance your confidence and competence in all fields of CCR Diving.

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MOD 3

After successfully completing the MOD 2 course and accumulating a total of 100 hours on your rebreather unit, you can advance to the highest level of CCR certification—the MOD 3 course. This ultimate course takes divers to a maximum depth of 100 meters, marking it as the pinnacle of CCR diving training.

Often referred to as the “top-tier,” the MOD 3 course is designed for those who seek to master the art of CCR diving, enabling them to explore some of the deepest and most challenging underwater environments. Through rigorous training and practical experience, the MOD 3 course ensures that you are fully prepared to handle the complexities and demands of deep diving with confidence and competence.

See what other CCR Divers have to say about us!

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