Enriched Air Nitrox
Dive longer, surface shorter - Maximize your underwater adventures with enriched air
Why Dive with Nitrox?
Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN) is breathing gas with higher oxygen content than regular air (21%). By diving with 32% or 36% oxygen, you can extend your no-decompression limits, enjoy longer bottom times, and reduce surface intervals between dives.
This is the most popular PADI specialty course because it offers immediate, practical benefits. Whether you're doing multiple dives per day, diving deeper sites, or simply want to feel less tired after diving, nitrox is the answer.
The course is primarily knowledge-based and can be completed in just 1-2 days. You'll learn about oxygen exposure, enriched air equipment, and how to analyze your breathing gas. Optional training dives help you practice your new skills.
Key Benefits
Extended Bottom Time
Stay underwater longer with extended no-decompression limits. At 18m, gain up to 50% more bottom time compared to air.
Shorter Surface Intervals
Reduce waiting time between dives. Get back in the water faster with less residual nitrogen in your system.
Feel Less Fatigued
Many divers report feeling less tired after nitrox dives. More energy for multiple dives and post-dive activities.
Added Safety Margin
Build in extra safety by using nitrox tables while diving air profiles. Conservative approach for peace of mind.
Worldwide Availability
Nitrox is available at most dive destinations worldwide. Unlock access to more dive opportunities globally.
Cost-Effective
Small additional cost per tank ($5-10) for significant benefits. Quick return on investment for frequent divers.
Prerequisites
Requirements
- PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent)
- Minimum age: 12 years (15 for EANx40)
- No minimum dive count required
Good to Know
- Can be completed online + 2 optional dives
- Perfect for vacation divers
- Immediate practical benefits
What You'll Learn
Enriched Air Theory
Understand oxygen percentages, partial pressures, and how enriched air affects your body. Learn the science behind nitrox diving.
Oxygen Exposure Management
Learn to manage oxygen exposure limits, calculate maximum operating depths (MOD), and plan safe nitrox dives using tables and computers.
Gas Analysis
Master the use of oxygen analyzers to verify the oxygen content of your tank. Learn proper analysis procedures and documentation.
Equipment Considerations
Understand equipment requirements for nitrox diving, oxygen-compatible materials, and proper tank identification and labeling.
Dive Planning with Nitrox
Plan multi-level dives, calculate surface intervals, and use dive computers set for enriched air. Maximize your dive time safely.
Course Options
eLearning Only
PopularPerfect for experienced divers who want the certification quickly
Choose eLearningeLearning + Dives
Recommended for new divers or those wanting practical experience
Choose with DivesNitrox vs Air Comparison
| Depth | Air (21% O₂) | EANx32 | EANx36 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12m / 40ft | 55 min | 95 min (+73%) | 125 min (+127%) |
| 18m / 60ft | 40 min | 60 min (+50%) | 80 min (+100%) |
| 24m / 80ft | 25 min | 35 min (+40%) | 45 min (+80%) |
| 30m / 100ft | 20 min | 25 min (+25%) | MOD: 28m |
* No-decompression limits shown. Actual dive times may vary based on dive computer algorithms and safety factors.
What's Included
Included in Course
- PADI Enriched Air eLearning
- Knowledge review session
- Oxygen analyzer training
- Dive planning instruction
- PADI certification card
- Digital certification (eCard)
- Nitrox dive tables (if with dives)
- 2 nitrox tanks (if with dives)
Please Note
- Personal dive equipment (can be rented)
- Dive computer recommended (not required)
- Boat fees (if applicable)
- Future nitrox fills ($5-10 per tank)
Pro Tip: Complete the eLearning before your dive trip, then do the optional dives at your destination to maximize your vacation time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nitrox safer than air?
Nitrox isn't inherently safer or more dangerous than air - it's different. When used properly within depth limits, nitrox reduces nitrogen absorption, which can add a safety margin. However, you must manage oxygen exposure and never exceed maximum operating depth (MOD). Proper training ensures safe use.
Can I dive deeper with nitrox?
No, actually the opposite! Nitrox has shallower maximum depth limits due to oxygen toxicity concerns. EANx32 has a MOD of 40m (130ft), and EANx36 has a MOD of 34m (110ft). Nitrox is for longer bottom times at recreational depths, not deeper diving.
Do I need special equipment?
For EANx32 and EANx36 (up to 40% oxygen), your standard scuba equipment is fine. No special modifications needed. For higher oxygen percentages (40%+), equipment must be oxygen-clean and compatible. Most recreational nitrox diving uses EANx32 or EANx36 with standard gear.
How much does nitrox cost per dive?
Nitrox typically costs $5-10 more per tank than regular air, depending on location. Some dive resorts include nitrox in package prices. Given the benefits (longer dives, shorter surface intervals, less fatigue), most divers find it well worth the small additional cost.
Can I use my regular dive computer?
You need a dive computer that can be set for nitrox (most modern computers can). You'll set it to match your tank's oxygen percentage. If your computer doesn't support nitrox, you can use nitrox dive tables, or it's a great excuse to upgrade to a nitrox-compatible computer!
Will I really feel less tired?
Many divers report feeling less fatigued after nitrox dives, though this isn't scientifically proven. The reduced nitrogen loading may contribute to this feeling. Even if it's partly psychological, the extended bottom times and shorter surface intervals are real, measurable benefits that enhance your diving experience.
How long does the course take?
The eLearning takes 2-4 hours to complete at your own pace. The knowledge review and gas analysis practice takes about 1-2 hours. If you choose the option with dives, add one day for 2 training dives. Many divers complete the eLearning before a dive trip and finish in-person requirements on arrival.
Is nitrox available everywhere?
Nitrox is widely available at most popular dive destinations, dive resorts, and liveaboards worldwide. Some remote locations may not have it. It's always good to check ahead, but in general, if a location caters to recreational divers, they likely offer nitrox.
Why Nitrox?
- Most popular specialty course
- Immediate practical benefits
- Perfect for vacation divers
- Quick & easy to complete
- Affordable investment
Combo Deal
Take Nitrox with Advanced Open Water and save $50! Perfect combination for serious divers.
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Get certified for enriched air nitrox and maximize your underwater adventures