The JJ-CCR is often described as the “4×4 of rebreathers.” Designed by technical divers for the most demanding environments, it combines ruggedness, simplicity, and reliability. At Xplorer Red Sea, we have made this technological marvel one of our primary tools for exploring the depths of the Red Sea.
Whether you want to start on this unit or master helium-based mixtures, our training programs guide you through three complementary levels: Air Diluent, Air Diluent Decompression, and Helitrox. Discover how to push your limits safely aboard our exceptional boats, the Argo Xplorer and the Vita Xplorer.
🧭 The JJ-CCR: Why is this Rebreather a Reference?
The JJ-CCR was born from a simple philosophy: “Keep It Simple, Stupid” (KISS), without compromising on robustness. Developed as early as 2006 and tested for over 1,500 diving hours before its release, it is designed to withstand the extreme conditions of Baltic Sea wrecks.
🔧 Key Advantages:
- Rugged Construction: An anodized aluminum casing that can accommodate up to 4 cylinders (2 x 12L) with standard straps.
- Electrical Redundancy: Separate power supplies for the controller (Shearwater Petrel 3), the HUD (Head Up Display), and the solenoid valve. No battery in the breathing loop.
- Autonomy: Axial canister with 2.3 kg of Sofnolime lime providing up to 180 minutes depending on the dive profile.
- Versatility: Usable from 0 to 100 meters, with air or trimix as diluent.
- Simplified Maintenance: Common parts, easy scrubber repacking, on-site maintenance possible.
⚠️ Important Reminder: The JJ-CCR is a demanding tool. It requires specific training from a factory-approved instructor. Never use it without this training and without an independent backup system (bailout).
🎓 The Three JJ-CCR Training Levels at Xplorer Red Sea
Our programs are conducted aboard our liveaboards, primarily on the Argo Xplorer, a steel-hull vessel specifically equipped for technical support and long expeditions.
1. 🌬️ Level 1: CCR Air Diluent
Objective: Master the basics of closed-circuit rebreather diving using air as the diluent gas.
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum Depth | 40 meters |
| Diluent | Air |
| Decompression | No (no-stop dives) |
| Indicative Prerequisites | Deep Diver + Nitrox Diver |
Skills Acquired:
- JJ-CCR assembly and disassembly
- Pre-dive checks (electronic tests, leaks, scrubber)
- PPO₂ (partial pressure of oxygen) control
- Solenoid valve management (automatic and manual modes)
- Manual mode diving (without electronics)
- Loop bailout in case of failure
Why this training?
This training allows you to enjoy the silence and comfort of closed-circuit diving on the reefs and accessible wrecks of the northern Red Sea. No more bubble noise or cold fatigue – you become a discreet observer of marine life.
2. 📈 Level 2: CCR Air Diluent Decompression
Objective: Integrate programmed decompression stops using air as the diluent.
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum Depth | 40 meters |
| Diluent | Air |
| Decompression | Yes (long and/or deep stops) |
| Indicative Prerequisites | Advanced Nitrox Diver + Deco Procedures Diver |
Skills Acquired:
- Dive planning with decompression
- Management of decompression cylinders (bailout)
- Gas consumption strategies in closed-circuit
- Multi-gas computer usage
- Stop management during electronic failure
- Emergency procedures during decompression
Why this training?
This stage is ideal for divers who want to explore wrecks resting at -35 meters (like the Thistlegorm) with extended bottom time and significantly reduced fatigue. Closed-circuit allows you to stay longer on sites while consuming less gas.
3. 🧪 Level 3: Helitrox Diluent
Objective: Introduce a small percentage of helium (Helitrox) to reduce narcosis and improve mental clarity between 40 and 45 meters.
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Maximum Depth | 45 meters |
| Diluent Mix | O₂ (≥19%) + He (≤30%) + N₂ (≤55%) |
| Decompression | Yes (up to 100% O₂ possible) |
| Indicative Prerequisites | Advanced Nitrox Diver + Deco Procedures Diver (or Helitrox Diver) |
Skills Acquired:
- Helitrox planning (ternary mixtures)
- Reduction of nitrogen narcosis thanks to helium
- Thermal management (helium cools down the breathing gas, requiring adaptation)
- Lighter decompression through helium use
- Use of rich decompression mixtures (up to 100% O₂)
- Gas analysis and mixing onboard
📘 What is Helitrox?
Helitrox is a ternary mixture (O₂ + N₂ + He) that replaces air or nitrox as the diluent gas. By substituting part of the nitrogen with helium, the narcotic effect at depth is reduced, improving alertness, decision-making, and comfort. It is the ideal gateway before full Trimix.
“The Helitrox Diluent course allows you to maintain a clear mind and absolute concentration during deep dives.”
📋 JJ-CCR Training Summary Table at Xplorer Red Sea
| Program | Depth | Diluent | Decompression | Indicative Prerequisites | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Diluent | 40 m max | Air | No | Deep Diver + Nitrox Diver | 3-4 days |
| Air Diluent Deco | 40 m max | Air | Yes | Advanced Nitrox Diver + Deco Procedures Diver | 2-3 days |
| Helitrox Diluent | 45 m max | Helitrox (≤30% He) | Yes | Advanced Nitrox Diver + Deco Procedures Diver (or Helitrox Diver) | 2 days |
🚢 Diving JJ-CCR Aboard the Argo Xplorer: The Ideal Environment
To conduct these training programs, we rely on the Argo Xplorer, a vessel designed for technical diving:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 40 meters (steel hull) |
| Crew | 12 members |
| Max Capacity | 25 passengers |
| Captain | Abd El Aziz |
| Technical Support | Nitrox, Trimix, battery recharging, CCR assembly space |
The Argo Xplorer is your launch platform for deep, long, and demanding dives, with all the comfort needed onboard for deco periods and surface intervals.
🌟 Why Choose Xplorer Red Sea for Your JJ-CCR Training?
- Factory-approved technical instructors: Trained in the specifics of the JJ-CCR and helium mixtures.
- Exceptional environment: The Red Sea offers visibility, temperature, and sites (Brothers, Daedalus, Thistlegorm) perfect for progression.
- Complete logistics: Vessels equipped for technical support, analysis equipment (O₂, He), battery chargers, and dedicated CCR assembly areas.
- Tailored support: In English or French, from briefing to post-dive analysis.
- Adapted itineraries: We schedule technical cruises on the best sites for your training level.
🤿 Ready to Switch to Closed Circuit?
Whether you want to discover the quiet of rebreather diving on a reef at -20 meters or prepare for Helitrox dives to -45 meters, Xplorer Red Sea offers the ideal framework for you to progress safely.
Contact us today to book your spot aboard the Argo Xplorer or the Vita Xplorer and get your JJ-CCR certification.
📞 Phone: +20 123 456 789
📧 Email: info@xplorer-redsea.com
🌐 Website: www.xplorer-redsea.com
📍 Dive Center: View Beach Resort, Downtown Hurghada
© Xplorer Red Sea – The passion for exploration, the rigor of expertise
