Scuba Requirements & Training
Mote Marine Laboratory is a member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) and follows all of its rules and regulations. Our staff includes highly trained and experienced AAUS scientific divers who are available to provide assistance with most aspects of field work.
AAUS Organizational Members, or institutions/agencies with AAUS reciprocity
You must provide a Letter of Reciprocity (LOR) from the dive safety officer at your institution or organization.
Non-AAUS Divers
Individuals interested in diving at IC2R3 who are not currently active AAUS scientific divers with an AAUS-OM scientific diving program will need to meet the following requirements to be considered a Mote-IC2R3 “Temporary Diver”:
- Meet Mote’s minimum requirements for training and/or prior dive experience.
- Complete and submit a Mote Temporary Diver Application.
- Submit a completed Medical History Questionnaire.
- Submit a completed Physician's Approval form.
- Provide proof of insurance covering dive accidents (minimum of Divers Alert Network insurance).
All completed forms and copies of relevant certifications must be submitted to the IC2R3 Dive Safety Officer by email a minimum of 24 hours prior to proposed dive activities.
Scuba tanks and air fills can be provided at minimal cost (see Rate and Fees). Other dive equipment is not available on-site, but arrangements can be made with a nearby local dive shop for equipment rental at reduced rates for Mote visitors. Weights are provided at no cost, but divers need to provide their own belts.
For more information on Mote's diving requirements and policies, or to obtain the necessary forms, please contact:
Joe Kuehl
Dive Safety Officer
Mote’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration
24244 Overseas Highway
Summerland Key, FL 33042
jkuehl@mote.org
Here is information on Mote’s visitor support and vessels.