IANTD CCR FATHOM MK III DIVER CROSSOVER
This course is designed for certified rebreather divers on another unit who wish to learn how to dive a FATHOM MK III CCR.
The FATHOM Mk III CCR is designed to be the simplest and most intuitive closed-circuit rebreather for underwater exploration. Several years ago, as their dives became increasingly deeper and longer duration, Karst Underwater Research (KUR) divers recognized the need for a new closed-circuit rebreather (CCR) with excellent work-of-breathing and long scrubber duration that would stand up to the rigors of cave exploration. The short list of desired features included:
- a radial scrubber for the best possible work-of-breathing and scrubber efficiency,
- at least an 8 lb/3.6 kg scrubber capacity for long duration dives,
- back-mounted counter-lungs to maintain streamlining and easy stage-bottle handling,
- off-board gas addition capability for diluent/bailout, and
- mechanical oxygen addition for reliability.
Unable to find an existing unit that met these requirements, KUR diver Charlie Roberson started to design what would eventually become the FATHOM CCR. There are no easy decisions when it comes to rebreather design and every choice, every dimension, every o-ring, was debated endlessly with fellow KUR divers. Ultimately, the final decisions were Charlie’s and his background as a machinist in the US Navy and Hogarthian/DIR cave diver guided him towards simplicity and functionality. The result of these efforts was the FATHOM CCR. Refinements to the original design continue and the FATHOM Mk III CCR is the latest version.
As with any diving equipment, it is essential to receive proper training and certification before using the FATHOM MK III or any rebreather system. Diving with a rebreather requires additional knowledge and skills beyond open-circuit scuba diving due to the different gas management and potential risks associated with closed-circuit systems.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who this course is for?
A: Certified rebreather divers on another unit who wish to learn how to dive a FATHOM MK III CCR.
Q: What is the prerequisite for IANTD CCR FATHOM MK III DIVER CROSSOVER Course?
A: Certified on another CCR and have 12 CCR dives of which one (1) must have been within 45 days of the program on the new CCR.
Q: What is the course structure?
A: It is a minimum 2-day course. We will build the unit and perform all the necessary tests on the morning of the first day. Then we need a minimum of 200 minutes of dive time on the FATHOM MK III CCR.
Q: Where can I find more information about FATHOM MK III CCR?
A: FATHOM has a very informative product introduction page on their website.
https://www.fathomdive.com/fathom-ccr/
Q: Do I need to purchase my own CCR for the course?
A: Yes, unless you have access to a unit. We do not have a rental unit currently.
Q: How much does a new FATHOM MK III CCR cost?
A: A brand new FATHOM MK III CCR is USD $9995 plus any shipping, duties, and taxes.
Q: Can I buy a used FATHOM MK III CCR?
A: Yes. If you decide to buy one, it is highly recommended that you have it serviced before the course. The instructor will also need to inspect the unit before the start of the course. There aren’t many used FATHOM on the market because it’s a keeper!
Q: How much is the course and what does it include?
A: The course fee is $800 plus tax based on a class of 2 or 3 for a 2-day course. It includes the training and certification fee after successfully completing the course.
Q: What is the extra cost for this course?
A: Here are some examples of potential extra charges for the course:
- eLearning
- Any rental you might need.
- Air and Nitrox fills are included in the course fee, but O2 or Trimix fills are extra.
- Boat charter fee if we need to hire a boat. The instructor’s charter fee will be shared with the whole class.
- Sofnolime (Carbon Dioxide absorbent). You could either buy a keg from us (20kg) or we can charge you per fill.
- Your travel expenses.
- The instructor can also travel to you, providing all the necessary gear and mixed gas can be provided by your local dive shop. The instructor’s travel expenses will be split among the class.
Q: How do I sign up for this course?
A: Send an email to hao@eoldiving.com. Our instructor will be happy to help you with any questions and sign up for the course!
