Becoming certified consists of three phases. These are:
- Self study.
- Skill development.
- Open-water training.
Self Study
At one time, a beginning scuba class could drag on for weeks. These days, few people have that kind of time — nor is it needed. With PADI’s state-of-the-art learning materials, the adventure can begin almost the moment you sign up. Diver’s Den gives students two options for completing the necessary self study prior to the start of the course:
- We primarily offer the option to learn using a more traditional textbook and DVD. If you choose this option, you will need to spend two evenings in the classroom, reviewing the homework assignments with your instructors and taking a variety of quizzes and exams.
- PADI eLearning is the newest convenient and enjoyable way to master the academic learning objectives associated with learning to scuba dive. It combines text, photos, illustrations, charts, graphs, animations and live-action video in a way that makes learning easy and fun. You will be able to easily complete all of the necessary academic learning when and where it is convenient, and at your own pace. Learn more…
Skill Development
Once you have acquired the important background information, it’s time to get in the water and start mastering fundamental scuba skills. This takes place in Diver’s Den’s own indoor, heated pool, under the watchful eye of your instructor. You will first see a demonstration of how each skill is done, then have the opportunity to practice until you are comfortable.
When you’ve completed your academic and confined-water training, you’ll be ready for the final and most important phase of earning your entry-level diver certification: your open-water training dives
Open Water Training
Open water training consists of four dives conducted over two days. Each of the dives consists of the opportunity to apply the skills you mastered in confined water, and to make a guided dive under the supervision of your instructor and his or her assistants.
Here in southeast Georgia, we enjoy the opportunity to train year round in Florida’s nearby freshwater springs. These springs are famous for their crystal-clear water and constant, 72-degree temperatures. We try to take students to at least two different springs during their open-water training dives.
And, When You Are Finished…
Once you’ve completed your academic/confined and open-water training, you’ll be awarded your PADI Open Water Diver certification. Bear in mind, however, that this is only the beginning.
As soon as possible, you will want to obtain (as a minimum) your Advanced Open Water Diver and Enriched Air Nitrox Diver certifications. These two ratings will allow you to participate in a much wider range of activities, both here at home and on vacation.
Your learning opportunities don’t stop there. Depending on your interests, you can take further training in activities such as underwater photography or video, and wreck diving. By taking five such Specialty Diver courses, and earning Rescue Diver certification, you can eventually obtain the coveted Master Scuba Diver rating.
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