SDI was created in 1999 and grew out of the success of their sister company TDI, which specializes in the more advanced disciplines of dive training.

Both students and instructors have embraced the no nonsense approach that the SDI training system offers. They have streamlined the course materials to let students study the essential academics with a renewed emphasis on practical diving skills learned in both the pool and open water environments. And SDI was the first agency to require students be taught with modern dive computers from the outset.

SDI's course materials reflect the state-of-the-art in modern texts, for example, the Open Water manual is a four color perfect bound set of books lavishly illustrated with photography and graphics.

Diving is constantly changing. SDI's staff is looking ahead and strives to continue their path as the innovators of the industry. They want to make the experience of diving one that is enjoyed by every family member to the fullest. At SDI, everyone is a diver and wants to share their love of the sport with as wide an audience as possible.