What is the PADI Mermaid program?
In late 2020, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors - or PADI - decided to start a specialized diving program specifically for “mermaiding.” Mermaiding is very similar to freediving, only with a decorative mermaid tail and monofin instead of the traditional diving couture of a wetsuit and bifins.
The following are excerpts directly from the PADI website describing their mermaid program:
“The PADI Mermaid Program is designed to be a rewarding and fun experience, suited to anyone with an interest in mermaid diving and basic swimming abilities. Although this experience shares techniques and equipment used in scuba and freediving, mermaid diving (or ‘mermaiding’) is its own form of diving. The PADI Mermaid Program is designed for non-divers and divers alike, as you don’t need any prior knowledge to enroll.”
PADI claims their mermaid program is directly inspired by the myths and legends of merfolk from around the world:
“Modern mermaid diving has its roots and takes its leads from mermaid legends, and mermaid diving interests are at least partially influenced by myths. Mermaid legends are common in many cultures around the world, with the earliest known stories dating to about 1000 B.C., Assyria. While the modern view is of upper human bodies and lower fish/fishtail bodies, traditionally European and Asian mermaids have differences, usually in the tail and/or body shape, but sometimes with other characteristics.”
You might be thinking “what’s so hard about swimming in a mermaid tail? It can’t be that hard.” While some people might take to it easier than others, it’s important for every PADI mermaid student to get proper instruction in order to stay as safe as possible in the water. You don’t want to overestimate your abilities and possibly end up severely hurt.
“Though mermaiding appears to be relatively simple, there’s a lot to learn about safety, how your body behaves underwater, and best use of mermaid equipment. Mermaid diving is a creative expression you enjoy in the water, and most novice ‘mermaids’ find it’s an enjoyable challenge that they readily master. But, the course does involve swimming in and under water, so your PADI Mermaid Instructor will orient you to skills and guidelines that, first and foremost, prevent problems and reduce risk, and second, help you enjoy and get the most out of mermaid diving.”
I hope this sheds a bit more light on what the PADI program is, and where it came from. Leave a comment with any questions or comments you have! We’re also happy to answer any questions through our contact form.
