Open water scuba diving certification is something you might be interested in. Luckily, there are several options for this type of course. You can choose to get certified with SSI or PADI. It is best to wait several years if you are just starting scuba diving. After all, you will need it to dive.
PADI
A PADI Open Water Scuba Certification will give you a range of options when it comes to your diving vacation. You can either dive in the local waters, or you could explore the great Barrier Reef or Belize Blue Hole. You can expect to pay anywhere from $350-$500 depending upon where you learn. For example, you can take private lessons for about three hours and then join a dive tour with a PADI instructor for the remainder of the trip.
SSI
SSI is the most recognised and largest scuba certification organization in the world. Its goal is to produce competent divers through rigorous training programs and ongoing education. There are several SSI certification options. One option is the SSI Autonomous Diver program, which offers the most comprehensive introductory training. The course can also be accessed digitally. You can sign up for a lifetime "diamond", or a student pack, to get started.
SSI eLearning
It is important that you think about your expectations when choosing between SSI or PADI open water scuba certifications. PADI courses adhere to a strict curriculum which makes it difficult for students to adjust their learning pace. SSI certifications allow you to modify the course to fit your learning style and your time in water. This is especially useful if you plan to do the certification while traveling.
SSI courses
PADI & SSI have a lot of things in common. But what makes them different? Both require that you purchase course materials in advance. PADI courses come in a paper book format, while SSI courses are online. The difference lies in how you use the materials. PADI courses offer a more comprehensive curriculum and require more adventure diving than SSI courses. You will also need to be more comfortable with PADI courses than SSI courses.
SSI classes
SSI has a solid reputation for providing quality training materials. SSI's openwater scuba courses will help you reach your goals, whether you are looking for a certification. The SSI Digital Training System has apps that let you log dives, track your progress and view your certifications from your smartphone.
Other certifications for scuba divers
You might wonder if any other open water scuba certifications match yours. Although there are many certification bodies and training agencies that can award diving qualifications, this table will give you a rough guide to help you find a comparable certification. These guides assume maximum air depth. Certain grades may require additional training to go deeper. The maximum depth guides listed here are only indicative and not definitive.