The PADI Open Water Diver course is the first course you take and is the most popular dive program in the world!  This is your ticket to a lifetime of intense adventure with PADI, a dive company that sets the standards in the global diving community.

 Throughout the course, you’ll learn fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. You will also earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification that is recognized worldwide. You earn this rating by completing five pool dives and knowledge development sessions and by making four open water (ocean or lake) dives.


As a certified PADI Open Water Diver you have the freedom to dive with a buddy independent of a professional. If you already tried a PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience or are PADI Scuba Diver certified, check with your instructor to see how credit from these courses may apply to the open water program. Your underwater adventure can begin as soon as today with the new PADI Open Water Diver Video and interactive CD-ROM! You can view these materials at home, at your own pace and then meet with an instructor for further assistance.

Open water learning options also include group or private instruction. This course offers tremendous flexibility and lets you work out individual needs with your instructor.

  Virtually anyone who is in good health, reasonably fit, and comfortable in the water can earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification. At some point in the course, your PADI Instructor will ask you to demonstrate the ability to swim 200 metres/yards without swim aids or 300 metres/yards with mask, fins and snorkel and complete a bit of paperwork, to get you on your way. If you are between 10 and 14 or have a child between these ages, there is a PADI Junior Open Water Diver program available.


There is good news for college students interested in getting certified: Now the PADI Open Water Diver course is recommended for college credit(s) by the American Council on Education (ACE). This program meets the educational standards and requirements for credit at the college level, even when taught away from a college or university. For those college students who reside in UK, Australia or New Zealand PADI offers specific programs just for you. Give us a call for full details on how you can enjoy this fabulous sport AND get a recommendation for college credit!

Reserve your spot for our next PADI Open Water Course today.  Call 317-897-2822