The Dive Rite O2ptima CM: A Travel-Friendly CCR for the Global Technical Diver

The Dive Rite O2ptima CM: A Travel-Friendly CCR for the Global Technical Diver

For technical divers who traverse the globe in pursuit of the next underwater adventure, having reliable, efficient, and portable equipment is paramount. The Dive Rite O2ptima CM closed-circuit rebreather (CCR) stands out as an exceptional choice for such explorers. Its compact design, adaptability, and advanced features make it a top contender for divers seeking a travel-friendly rebreather without compromising on performance.


Compact and Lightweight Design

Weighing in at just 14.4 lbs (excluding the oxygen cylinder and absorbent material), the O2ptima CM is engineered with travel in mind citeturn0search0. Its chest-mounted configuration allows it to be easily rolled up and stowed in a carry-on bag, eliminating the need for bulky hard frames or backplates citeturn0search2. This design not only simplifies transportation but also ensures that divers can maintain their preferred harness systems, whether they use sidemount, back-mounted doubles, or single tank setups.


Versatility Across Diving Environments

The O2ptima CM's design offers unparalleled flexibility. Its self-contained system utilizes an onboard oxygen cylinder, requiring only a single external connection for the diluent from your existing gas supply citeturn0search2. This simplicity allows divers to seamlessly integrate the rebreather into various diving scenarios:

  • Deep Ocean Dives: Attach the O2ptima CM to your single tank rig for extended bottom times.

  • Overhead Environments: Use it in place of a stage bottle to increase penetration distances in caves or wrecks while maintaining adequate bailout gas.

  • Shallow Reef Explorations: Easily remove the rebreather for open-circuit dives in the same day.

Moreover, the unit can be detached and staged underwater to navigate tight restrictions, then retrieved upon return, showcasing its adaptability in complex dive plans citeturn0search15.


Advanced Features for Enhanced Performance

Beyond its portability, the O2ptima CM is equipped with features that cater to the needs of serious technical divers:

  • Short Breathing Loop: The rebreather boasts one of the shortest breathing loops on the market, reducing the work of breathing and enhancing comfort during dives citeturn0search1.

  • Dual Counterlungs: Its twin counterlung design offers a total loop volume of 6 liters, ensuring efficient gas exchange and buoyancy control citeturn0search5.

  • Flexible Scrubber Options: Divers can choose between Micropore ExtendAir cartridges or approximately 5 pounds (2.2 kg) of granular absorbent, allowing for customization based on dive duration and conditions citeturn0search5.

  • Shearwater Electronics: The integration of Shearwater's Petrel 3 or NERD 2 controllers provides reliable and intuitive monitoring of dive parameters.


Practical Tips for Traveling Divers

To maximize the benefits of the O2ptima CM during your travels:

  • Plan for Cylinder Logistics: While the rebreather itself is travel-friendly, transporting cylinders can be challenging due to airline regulations. Consider renting cylinders at your destination or shipping them ahead using reliable carriers citeturn0search7.

  • Maintain Your Unit: Regular maintenance, such as replacing galvanic oxygen sensors annually and servicing the unit every two years or after 100 dives, ensures optimal performance citeturn0search6.

  • Stay Trained: Ensure you're certified to operate the O2ptima CM, as specific training is required for safe and effective use citeturn0search6.


Conclusion

The Dive Rite O2ptima CM rebreather embodies the perfect blend of portability, versatility, and advanced functionality. For technical divers who refuse to be constrained by location or equipment limitations, this CCR offers the freedom to explore the depths of the world's waters with confidence and convenience.


Join Us at Extreme Water Sports

At Extreme Water Sports, located in Fujairah, UAE, we're proud to offer comprehensive training and support for divers interested in the O2ptima CM. Whether you're looking to get certified, test the unit, or embark on guided dives, our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn more about how the Dive Rite O2ptima CM can elevate your diving adventures.