Yurii Prokhvatylo
In the world of technical diving, few names resonate with as much respect and admiration as Yurii Prokhvatylo. With decades of experience, a wealth of knowledge, and an unyielding passion for diving, Yurii has established himself as a leading Technical and Rebreather Diving Instructor Trainer. His contributions to the field have not only shaped the careers of countless divers but have also advanced the standards of technical diving instruction worldwide.
Yurii Prokhvatylo’s journey into the depths of the underwater world began like many others—with a curiosity for the unknown and a love for the ocean. However, what set Yurii apart early on was his drive to push beyond the boundaries of recreational diving. He was drawn to the challenge, precision, and adventure that technical diving offered. Over the years, he honed his skills, accumulating thousands of dives in some of the most demanding and challenging environments across the globe.
The Transition to Teaching: A Passion for Sharing Knowledge
As Yurii’s expertise grew, so did his desire to share his knowledge with others. He understood that technical diving, while immensely rewarding, also comes with significant risks. Proper training and education are crucial to ensure divers can safely explore beyond recreational limits. This understanding propelled Yurii into the realm of instruction, where he quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional teacher.
Yurii’s approach to training is rooted in his deep respect for the underwater environment and the complexities of technical diving. His teaching style is rigorous, emphasizing not only the skills needed to dive safely but also the mindset required to manage the challenges that come with technical diving. His students are taught to think critically, plan meticulously, and always prioritize safety.
Yurii’s expertise and dedication did not go unnoticed, and he eventually rose to the level of Technical Diving Instructor Trainer—a role that allows him to train the trainers. As an Instructor Trainer, Yurii’s influence extends far beyond the individual diver; he plays a critical role in shaping the next generation of technical diving instructors. These instructors, in turn, carry forward the standards and practices that Yurii has instilled, ensuring that his impact is felt across the diving community.
In his role, Yurii has developed comprehensive training programs that cover a wide range of technical diving disciplines, including deep diving, wreck penetration, cave diving, and gas management. His courses are known for their thoroughness and the high level of competency required to pass. Graduates of Yurii’s programs are not just certified—they are deeply knowledgeable and highly skilled, equipped to teach and lead others in the demanding world of technical diving.
Beyond training, Yurii has been at the forefront of technical diving research and innovation. He is continually involved in testing new equipment, refining dive techniques, and contributing to the development of safety protocols that enhance the overall safety and enjoyment of technical diving. His work often involves collaboration with leading dive equipment manufacturers, where his insights help shape the tools and technologies used by technical divers worldwide.
Yurii’s research also extends to environmental conservation. He is a strong advocate for the protection of underwater ecosystems, particularly those that are frequently visited by technical divers. His commitment to responsible diving practices is reflected in his training programs, where he emphasizes the importance of preserving the underwater environment for future generations.
Yurii Prokhvatylo’s influence is not confined to one region; he has trained divers and instructors from all corners of the globe. His reputation as a top-tier Technical Diving Instructor Trainer has made him a sought-after mentor for those serious about pursuing technical diving at the highest levels. Whether in Europe, Asia, or the Americas, Yurii’s students carry his teachings with them, contributing to a global community of skilled and responsible technical divers.
GET IN TOUCHYurii Prokhvatylo
Protaras, Cyprus
+436605074658
CV AND AWARDSYurii up close
- Work experience
- Travel and Diving Experience
- Awards & Honours
Years of Experience:
Over 18 years in the diving industry
- Technical and Rebreather Diving Instructor Trainer (Multiple Agencies)
- Developed and conducted instructor training programs for aspiring technical diving instructors.
- Certified hundreds of technical diving instructors, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety, knowledge, and proficiency.
- Specialized in a variety of technical diving disciplines, including deep diving, wreck penetration, and cave diving.
- Rebreather Diving Instructor
- Taught rebreather diving courses to divers at all levels, from introductory to advanced trimix.
- Provided in-depth training on the use of advanced diving equipment, including rebreathers, twinsets, and sidemount configurations.
- Led technical diving expeditions to remote and challenging dive sites, including deep wrecks and cave systems.
- Dive Center Manager/Owner
- Managed operations at a leading dive center, overseeing everything from staff training to equipment maintenance.
- Developed custom dive programs and packages tailored to individual and group needs, focusing on technical diving specialties.
- Maintained a high standard of safety and customer service, earning the dive center a reputation for excellence.
- Diving Equipment Consultant
- Collaborated with major diving equipment manufacturers to test and refine new products.
- Provided expert feedback on rebreathers, dive computers, and other technical diving gear, contributing to the development of safer and more efficient diving technologies.
- Authored equipment reviews and guides to help divers make informed choices about their gear.
- Underwater Explorer
- Conducted exploratory dives in uncharted waters, contributing to the discovery and documentation of new dive sites.
- Participated in scientific and conservation projects, using technical diving skills to support underwater research and environmental monitoring.
- Documented diving expeditions through photography and videography, sharing the wonders of the underwater world with a wider audience.
Specialties and Certifications
- Certifications:
- Trimix Instructor Trainer certifications with leading diving organizations (e.g. IANTD, NDL, IDU)
- CCR Trimix Instructor
- Triton CCR Instructor
- CCR AP Inspiration Instructor
- Pathfinder rebreather Instructor
- CCR Cave Instructor
- Wreck Penetration Instructor
Global Diving Expeditions
- Mediterranean Sea
- Wreck Exploration: Explored numerous historical wrecks, including deep and complex sites such as the Zenobia off the coast of Cyprus. His dives in the Mediterranean have contributed to detailed mapping and documentation of these wrecks, some of which are popular training sites for technical divers.
- Cave Diving: Participated in cave diving expeditions in countries like Slovenia, Hungary, Italy and Greece, where he explored underwater cave systems that are both geologically significant and incredibly challenging.
- Red Sea
- Deep Technical Dives: Conducted technical dives on some of the Red Sea’s most famous wrecks, including the SS Thistlegorm. These dives often involved deep penetration and required meticulous planning due to the wrecks’ depth and condition.
- Marine Life Exploration: Engaged in marine life studies, documenting the rich biodiversity of the Red Sea, particularly around coral reefs at varying depths.
- Mexico (Yucatán Peninsula)
- Cenote Diving: Specialized in diving the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula, exploring the intricate and extensive cave systems. His work in these freshwater caves has added valuable insights into the region’s hydrology and speleology.
- Sidemount Exploration: Utilized sidemount configurations to navigate the narrow passages of these caves, perfecting his skills and teaching others the techniques necessary for safe cave diving.
- Southeast Asia
- Wreck and Reef Diving: Dived in the Philippines and Indonesia, where he explored both wrecks from World War II and some of the most vibrant coral reefs on the planet. These dives often involved deep technical profiles and required careful gas management due to the remote locations.
- Rebreather Expeditions: Led rebreather diving expeditions in areas like Raja Ampat, Indonesia, where extended dive times allowed for more thorough exploration and documentation of remote dive sites.
- Northern Europe
- Cold-Water Diving: Participated in dives in the icy waters of Russia, Norway and Finland, where he explored underwater mines and caves. These cold-water environments demanded a high level of preparation and specialized equipment, such as drysuits and heated undergarments.
- Instructor Trainer of the Year (Multiple Years)
- Awarded by: International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers (IANTD)
- Description: This prestigious award is given to the top-performing instructor trainers who demonstrate excellence in teaching, mentoring, and developing diving professionals. Yurii has received this honor multiple times, a testament to his outstanding impact on the careers of countless instructors and divers.
- Platinum Instructor
- Awarded by: Scuba School International (SSI)
- Description: The Platinum Instructor recognition is one of the highest honors that Scuba Schools International (SSI) bestows upon its instructors. It is awarded to those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to diver education, consistently maintaining high standards in training and safety while contributing significantly to the growth and development of the diving community.
- Development of the Technical Diving Manual for the National Diving League (NDL)
- Awarded by: National Diving League (NDL)
- Description: Yurii Prokhvatylo’s development and writing of the Technical Diving Manual for the National Diving League (NDL) stand as a monumental achievement in his career. This accomplishment reflects his deep expertise in technical diving and his commitment to advancing the standards of diving education.
- Development of the Rebreather Diving Manual for the National Diving League (NDL)
- Awarded by: National Diving League (NDL)
- Description: Yurii Prokhvatylo’s development of the Rebreather Diving Manual for the National Diving League (NDL) marks a significant milestone in his distinguished career. This award recognizes his outstanding contribution to the field of rebreather diving education and his pivotal role in advancing the NDL’s training programs.
- Excellence in Diver Education Award
- Awarded by: Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI)
- Description: Presented for his outstanding commitment to diver education, particularly in the technical diving sector. Yurii’s innovative teaching methods and dedication to high standards have set a benchmark in the industry, leading to this recognition.
- Explorer of the Year
- Awarded by: International Divers Union (IDU)
- Description: Awarded for his significant contributions to underwater exploration, including his work in discovering and documenting new dive sites. This honor highlights Yurii’s adventurous spirit and his role in expanding the frontiers of underwater exploration.