Scuba Lessons for Certification

On your list of 100 things to do before you die, is scuba diving  on your list? The underwater world offers wonders that you can never truly imagine until you are swimming around far below the surface. Since you are dealing with many pieces of equipment  that require a working knowledge to use them properly and safely, you will need to take scuba lessons  and become certified before you are allowed to go diving.

There are many certification agencies throughout the world. Two of the most internationally recognizable agencies are the Professional Association of Dive Instructors  (PADI) and Scuba Schools International  (SSI).

PADI Certification PADI certification  is recognized and accepted all over the world. Their courses are designed “to make learning enjoyable and worthwhile” through their manual,  videos,  workbooks,  multimedia discs, and other education materials that you get to use with your course. Course Length Generally speaking, you need about four to five successful ocean dives with your instructor to become certified. You will not be certified until you are comfortable in the water and have mastered the basics from proper equipment use to safety guidelines and more. Depending on your availability, you can split the course up over a few days (if at a diving resort) or over several weeks. The most common practice for those wishing to become serious divers is to undergo a full certification course in their home town. However, when this is not an option, learning at a resort is the next best thing. Quick Facts PADI certification is recognized all over the world. Scuba courses can count for college credit. Courses are delivered in a standardized format and will require some time to study the material. Courses available in 26 languages. Access to the Padi Dive network. 130,000 PADI Professionals worldwide. About 5300 PADI Dive Centers and Resorts in 180 countries and territories. 25 specialty diver courses, such as wreck, cave, or deep diving.

SSI Certification Like PADI, SSI certification  is also recognized all over the world. SSIs motto is "serious diving, serious fun." Each course, as well as many of the specialty courses, comes with a manual, a ringed dive log book  for you to record your dives, and a multimedia CD. Course Length SSI employs a home-study approach to minimize the amount of time spent in a classroom and allow for more practice in the water. Course length varies depending on the facility in which you are trained. Students are also offered at least five or six ocean dives with an instructor before being certified. Quick Facts 1,900 Authorized Dealers in 90 countries. 25 Global Regional Centers. Scuba courses can count for college credit. More than 15 specialty courses are available. Operates Club Aquarius scuba resorts around the world. Uses home-study to limit class time and increase water time. Offers courses and services for all levels of scuba divers from kids to dive masters.

General Factors Affecting Price

Both schools offer competitive pricing and prices can vary with each facility. There are several general things to consider:

• Dry vs. Wet Suit: Wet suit  certification (the standard certification also known as "Open Water Certification") is what most divers will take should they want to dive in moderately cool to warm climates, including the tropics. Dry suit certification  is more expensive, but if you plan to dive in cold climates, this is the only real option since it will teach you how to properly use a dry suit  -- a necessity for any cold water diving.
• Optional Extras: Make sure your course includes all required equipment rentals and services. Keep in mind that you may need to pay extra to rent your diving equipment in some locations. Inquire ahead of time so that you are not surprised by the bill. Also watch for any extra environmental or park fees that may not be included in the course fees.
• Specialty Course Certification: After you sign up you may be encouraged, by discounts or student testimonials, to take specialty courses.  These can cost a few hundred dollars each and most require that you are certified for basic open water  before you can undergo anything more advanced. Look at your budget and future diving plans. It is advisable to take the general open water certification course first to make sure you like it before you commit to additional courses. Most recreational divers have a few years under their belts before engaging in specialty courses.

Summary

The best piece of advice you can get about choosing a scuba course, is to pick a few schools/locations that fit your budget and schedule and give them a call. Ask questions and let them know any concerns you may have. Then have fun exploring under the sea.

Basic Equipment Your Should Own for Certification
Wet Suit	Fins	Scuba Mask	Snorkel	Swimsuit

Equipment You Might Want for Certification But That You Should Eventually Buy
Buoyancy Compensator (BC)	Regulator	Dive Gauge	Dive Bag

External Links

• About.com: Listing of scuba education schools.
• Padi.com: Professional Association of Dive Instructors Web site.
• Ssiusa.com: Scuba Schools International Web site.