The complete SSI XR pathway, from open-circuit doubles to XR Hypoxic Trimix at 100 metres. diveshack is one of a very small number of centres in Malta authorised to run the full XR programme. We dive these sites ourselves. We know exactly what training you need.
Each XR course is a prerequisite for the next. The pathway starts with a pool-based equipment course and progresses through to XR Hypoxic Trimix at 100 metres. Specialty courses can be added at any level.
All XR courses are certified by SSI. diveshack is authorised to run the complete XR programme. Contact us before booking to discuss your experience level and course eligibility.
The entry point to all XR courses. Twin-cylinder configuration, tec trim, and decompression theory in confined water. OWD + 24 logged dives required. Equipment certification for entry into all XR specialties.
The step into helium gas. Normoxic trimix blends, planned decompression to 45m. Prerequisite for Technical Extended Range. Malta's deep sites used as training venues.
Hypoxic bottom mix, planned dives to 80m. Opens the HMS Nasturtium, Schnellboot S-31, Martin Maryland, Fairey Swordfish, and HMS Stubborn. One of the most sought-after tec certifications in the Mediterranean.
100m operational depth. Advanced decompression profiles, multi-stage gas management. Opens the Stuka JU-87, Tower Wreck at 105m+, and the Phoenician Wreck at 105-110m. The deepest open-circuit tec cert in the SSI XR programme.
Both XR Hypoxic Trimix 80 and 100 in one combined programme. More efficient for candidates who plan to complete the full pathway. Contact us to discuss scheduling.
Technical overhead penetration on Malta's deep WWII wrecks. Full penetration protocols, reel and line use, emergency procedures in confined spaces. Can be added at any XR level.
Full XR catalogue also includes: XR Extended Range Nitrox · XR Technical Extended Range · XR Sidemount · XR Technical Wreck
Most Malta dive centres stop at recreational or Extended Range. diveshack runs the complete SSI XR programme from Foundations to Hypoxic Trimix 100. We train tec divers at every level.
Our instructors dive the Malta 80m+ wrecks on technical equipment. When we brief XR Hypoxic Trimix 80 on the Martin Maryland or Hawker Hurricane, it is a briefing from people who have been there.
The highest SSI rating. Authorised to certify instructors. Your XR certification is issued at the same standard as any Diamond ITC worldwide.
The entry-level XR Extended Range Foundations requires an SSI Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent from another agency) plus a minimum of 24 logged dives. Foundations is a pool-only equipment course. Each subsequent XR course requires the previous level. diveshack will assess your logbook and dive experience before confirming course eligibility.
XR courses from Extended Range Foundations require open-circuit twin-cylinder (doubles) configuration. diveshack can supply tec equipment for courses or advise on what to bring if you have your own doubles setup. CCR candidates should contact us to discuss equipment requirements.
This depends on your starting point and how quickly you progress. XR Extended Range Foundations typically takes 3-5 days. Each subsequent trimix course adds 4-6 days. Most candidates spread the pathway over multiple visits or take extended periods with us in Malta. Contact us to discuss your available time and goals.
XR Hypoxic Trimix 80 opens sites including HMS Stubborn (45-56m), the B-24 Liberator (55-60m), HMS Nasturtium (65-68m), HMS Southwold (65-73m), the Martin Maryland (67-70m), the Fairey Swordfish (70m), the Hawker Hurricane (70m), and the Spitfire Mk Vc (70m). Malta has more tec-accessible wrecks in this depth range than almost anywhere in the Mediterranean.
Malta is one of the best technical diving training destinations in the world. Consistent visibility of 20-30m, calm seas from May to October, and a concentration of wrecks at depths from 45m to 130m means you train on real sites, not artificial structures. Water temperatures of 15-27 degrees depending on season allow year-round training.
diveshack's instructors have CCR experience and can advise on CCR pathways. For structured CCR courses, contact us to discuss availability and what's required. The deep CCR sites in Malta including HMS Urge at 112-130m and HMS Olympus at 115-130m are accessible via CCR with appropriate certification.
Technical course candidates should contact us before booking. We'll discuss your experience, logbook, equipment, and goals before confirming a course. WhatsApp is fastest.
20 Qui Si Sana Seafront, Sliema · +356 9999 3483 · info@divemalta.com · Mon-Sat 08:00-17:00
All XR courses include
diveshack Malta has been operating since 1992. SSI Diamond Instructor Training Centre. MTA licensed dive centre DIVE/0022. IDN Group partner.