Q: What equipment do I need to start?

A: You will need your own dive rated mask, snorkel and fins. Other equipment such as BCD, regulator, tanks, and wetsuit can be rented from our dive shop partners. We will help you obtain the equipment you need for training.

Q: How old does my child have to be to get certified?

A: The minimum age for Open Water certification is 10-years old. Specialty courses may have higher age requirements depending on the course.

Q: Are there restrictions for medical conditions?

A: All students must complete a Medical Questionnaire & Waiver before they can begin training. There are certain medical conditions that require a physician to confirm you can participate in scuba training. An example of the Medical Questionnaire can be found here

Q: Do I need to be a good swimmer to scuba dive?

A: The Open Water certification course requires you to have basic swimming skills. During the course you must be able to swim 200 meters/ yards (or 300 meters/ yards if wearing mask, fins and snorkel) without stopping. There is no time limit and you can use any stroke you wish. You will also need to float/ tread water for 10 minutes using any method you prefer. It’s easier than you may think!

Q: How deep can you dive after completing the Open Water certification course?

A: Divers should not exceed depth that they are trained for and feel comfortable with, however the maximum depth for Open Water certified divers is 18 meters/ 60 feet. Junior Open Water divers (10-15 years old) are limited to 12 meters/ 40 feet. 

Additional training, such as Advanced Open Water and Deep Diver certifications, can increase depth to the recreational diving depth limit of 40 meters/ 130 feet. However, remember that shallow water means warmer water and brighter colors!

Q: How long does it take to complete the Open Water certification course?

The open water course is divided into 3 sections. The first is where you will learn dive principles and terminology. This is the longest section but is completed via eLearning which means it can be completed at your own pace and own schedule. The second involves a series of “confined dives” at a local pool which is usually completed in one day. The final section for certification involves skills training in an open water environment and is usually completed at a nearby lake over a two day period. However, our training is flexible and we will take all the time necessary to ensure you are comfortable and become a confident and safe diver.

Q: I am traveling to the Caribbean next month and want to go diving. Do I have enough time to get certified?

A: Possibly. You control how long it takes to complete the online eLearn training. The skills training (confined and open water dives) can usually be completed in 3-4 days, however we will not sacrifice safety or time. Another option is the PADI Scuba Diver course which can be completed in just a few days and allow you to dive under the direct supervision of a PADI professional to a depth of 40 ft. Contact the dive resort at your destination to determine what level of training you need in order to participate on their adventures.

Q: What is the difference between the PADI Scuba Diver course and PADI Open Water Diver certification?

A: The PADI Scuba Diver course is a subset of the PADI Open Water Diver certification course. Completing PADI Scuba Diver is a bit like obtaining a learner’s permit when learning to drive. It is ideal for those who don’t have time to complete the entire Open Water certification course due to time constraints. PADI Scuba Divers are only permitted to dive with a PADI Professional (divemaster/ instructor) whereas a certified PADI Open Water diver can dive with any other certified Open Water diver. Learn more at >>

Q: What is your cancellation & refund policy?

A: Generally speaking all class payments are non-refundable due to cost we incur upon registration for your eLearning access and other associated expenses. If you are moving before completing your course we may be able to transfer you to another PADI dive center at your new location so you can continue training (*note: new dive center may have some additional costs). Extenuating circumstances will be reviewed on a case by case basis.

If you have additional questions please contact us!