To obtain an Open Water Diver Certification, you must be 15 years old. Young adults (ages 12-14 for NAUI and 10-14 for PADI) can receive a Junior Open Water Diver Certification.
Before getting certified, you should be in good physical health. If you are not sure that you're fit enough, see your doctor.
You don't need to be an Olympic swimmer, but you do need to have a few basic skills. The scuba certification process includes a swim test that you must pass. If you can't swim, sign up for lessons.
The best way to learn to dive and get certified is trough a reputable program at your local dive shop. Most dive shops offer SSI, PADI and NAUI certifications. Other certification agencies include the YMCA and PDIC. It doesn't hurt to compare them to find out which one meets your needs.
It is important to choose an instructor that you trust and feel comfortable with. He/She should be thorough, patient, and supportive. Don't stick with someone you are not comfortable with. Scuba diving is a dangerous sport. You need the proper training to be successful and safe. Don't be afraid to ask for references from the instructor's previous students.
First, the course length depends on you and your schedule. If you had nothing but free time on your hands, you could be a diver in two weeks. But, must of us work and leisure time is a rare commodity. It took me two months to get my certification. A complete course could cost between $250.00 and $500.00. This includes books, tables, and rental equipment. You may spend more if you prefer to buy your own personal equipment (mask, snorkel, fins, weight, weight belt, and boots) or take a resort course.
There are many other scuba skills you can learn, such as underwater photography, deep diving, wreck diving, cave diving, ice diving, and spear fishing. Two thirds of the earth is underwater. It is an exciting world of marine life, caves, and shipwrecks just waiting for you to discover the beauty.
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