So the surface can see you
A surface marker buoy (SMB) is an inflatable buoy that shows where a diver is once it reaches the surface. The crew of a boat or rescue craft can see your position before you come up, which helps prevent accidents. A delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB) is sent up from depth at the end of the dive, and you can hold its line during the ascent and safety stop when there is current or no other reference.
The surface marker buoy course teaches you to use the buoy so that every ascent is safe and under control, even in poor visibility.
What you learn
- Choosing a buoy and reel, preparing them and stowing them before the dive
- Deploying the buoy from a stationary position and while hovering mid-water
- Swimming while towing the buoy and handling the reel and line
- Ascending and holding a safety stop on the buoy line
- Planning the ascent and air reserve, and communicating with your buddy and the surface
- Handling problems: a tangled line, buoy faults, sharing air with a buddy during the ascent
How the course runs
Theory
What buoys are for and the different types, preparation, ascent planning, signals to your buddy and the surface, using the buoy in poor visibility and emergency procedures.
Open-water dives
On two dives you put it all into practice: you send up the buoy from different depths, control the ascent and hold a stable position, swim with your buddy while towing the buoy and practise handling problems. The instructor assesses each exercise.
Where it helps
In some places a surface marker buoy is considered required safety equipment, and for boat dives, drift dives and wreck dives it is almost always needed. The skills also help on longer and technical dives.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an SMB and a DSMB?
An SMB is towed at the surface for the whole dive, while a DSMB is carried rolled up and sent up from depth before the ascent. This course focuses mainly on the DSMB.
How much experience do I need?
An Open Water Diver certificate is enough, but we recommend at least 10 logged dives. The minimum age is 12.
Do I need my own buoy?
No, the diving equipment is included in the course price. If you already have your own buoy and reel, bring them: learning with your own gear is the most useful.
Which certificate will I get?
An international PADI Delayed Surface Marker Buoy (DSMB) Diver certificate.