Recreational Rebreathers

Recreational Rebreathers – Good or Bad

During the 3rd Annual CCR Summit, discussions evolved about the likelihood of recreational rebreathers saturating the market. This year at the DEMA Trade Show, many recreational units were shown and several training agencies were pushing courses for the entry-level diver. In a room full of CCR cave divers, you can imagine that the conversation was lively about what a disaster this could be. I would argue that anyone that thinks that rebreathers WON’T be filling the recreational scuba stores of the future is kidding themselves. Ten years ago, people doubted that technical divers could ever create a viable market for rebreathers. Now, you can’t go to Ginnie Springs without seeing six or seven different units on the back of pick-up beds. Manufacturers are beginning to see the writing on the wall. The biggest opportunity for growth is in simplicity and creating a rig that will allow someone to safely dive in entry-level applications. I believe this can be done safely if proper training and guidelines are adhered to. It may be the best chance the scuba marketplace has for attracting a new, young demographic that is interested in exciting technology and big animal encounters.  Jill Heinerth

Comments

[Bob Cree]

Your bold statements I believe rank right up there! I had been hearing quite a few people say those words - that rebreathers will be entry level some day - now I know the source...visionary, and I think you are right.

I feel strongly about the entire recreational rebreather question, especially as it pertains to entry level divers - to your point...I started a blog http://bobcree.net/ on this subject before I came across this post, and when I read it - wow. I have now quoted you and linked back to your web site on the subject.

Thanks for your thoughts!

Bob Cree