Recreational Mermaid Programs

Mermaid

Intent

The SSI Mermaid program provides students with the knowledge and training necessary to autonomously conduct mermaid activities with an equally-or more-qualified buddy in a pool/confined water environment, and to depths shallower than five (5) meters.

Minimum Instructor Rating

An active status Mermaid Instructor may conduct the SSI Mermaid program.

Student Prerequisites

Minimum age: 12 years old.

Complete the Mermaid Water Fitness Evaluation.

Duration

Recommended hours for completion: 16-24.

Depth Limitations

Maximum pool/confined water depth limit: 5 meters.

Recommendation | If students are interested in breath-hold diving, they should be encouraged to take the SSI Basic Freediver program.

In-Water Ratios

The student-to-Instructor ratio is 6:1.

The ratio may increase to 8:2 with a certified assistant.

Minimum Supervision

An active status Mermaid Instructor or higher must directly supervise the entire program.

Proximity

During in-water skill evaluations, the students must remain under direct supervision of the instructor so that physical contact can be made at any time.

Requirements For Completion

Complete all academic sections and assessments as outlined in the Mermaid Instructor Manual.

Complete the program’s final exam.

Complete at least three (3) pool/confined water sessions and skill evaluations as outlined in the Mermaid Instructor Manual.

Certification

Upon completion of all academic and pool/confined water requirements and final exam, a Mermaid Instructor or higher may issue the digital Mermaid certification card.

Certified Mermaids can swim with an equally- or more-qualified buddy, in environments including aquariums and purpose-built indoor diving facilities, and within the recommended depth limits.

Upgrades

To upgrade to Ocean Mermaid, a Mermaid must complete the Mermaid Water Fitness Evaluation and at least two (2) open water training sessions in an open water environment as outlined in the Mermaid Instructor Manual.