The PADI Mermaid™ course includes knowledge development (online, self paced) and at least two water skill sessions that develop core techniques and dynamic mermaid skills, including many skills that make mermaiding an underwater self-expressive art, separate from other types of diving. (Note that the PADI Mermaid course includes Basic Mermaid, so you can start with PADI Mermaid – there is no need to take Basic Mermaid separately.)

To enroll in a PADI Mermaid course, you must be at least twelve years old. You need to be able to swim at least 50m/160ft without swim aids, able to float comfortably at the surface for at least 5 mins and in good physical health. As an entry-level mermaid diving course, no prior experience with diving of any kind is required. The course combines online, self paced e-learning with two confined water sessions to learn and prepare for mermaiding, rescue/problem management skills and the conduct of mermaid dives. You also learn mermaid skills, such as dolphin (butterfly) kicks, C-shape and U-shape side turns, and some skills distinct to mermaid diving, including backward somersault turn (backflip), underwater handshaking mermaid bubbles, and back glides. Students are required to provide their own mermaid tail (monofin plus fabric cover) for this course. The instructor is available to make equipment recommendations.