Open water scuba diving certification is something you might be interested in. Luckily, there are several options for this type of course. You have the option to become certified with SSI and PADI. You should wait until you're more experienced in scuba diving before you purchase scuba gear. You will use it to dive.
PADI
You'll be able to choose from a wide range of diving options once you have earned your PADI open water certification. You can either dive in the local waters, or you could explore the great Barrier Reef or Belize Blue Hole. This certification can cost anywhere from $350-$500 depending on the location you are learning. 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 largest and most recognized scuba certification agency in the world. Its philosophy is to create capable divers through rigorous training and ongoing educational programs. There are many SSI certification options. One option is the SSI Autonomous Diver course, which provides the most extensive introductory training. This course can also be offered digitally. To get started, sign up for a free student package or the lifetime "diamond" package.
SSI eLearning
When choosing between a PADI and SSI open water scuba certification, it's important to consider what you want from the course. PADI courses follow a rigid curriculum that makes it difficult to change the pace of your study. SSI courses are flexible enough to allow you to adjust the course to fit your schedule and to make the certification happen while you're away.
SSI courses
PADI and SSI share many similarities, but what sets them apart? 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 are more detailed and often require more adventure diving than SSI. Also, PADI courses require more adventure dives that SSI. You should be familiar with each option before you select a training centre.
SSI classes
SSI is known for its high quality training materials. SSI offers open water scuba training courses that can help you learn about diving and get a certification. The SSI Digital Training System features apps that allow you log your dives, track and review your progress, as well as view your qualifications right from your mobile device.
Other certifications available in scuba diving
You might wonder if any other open water scuba certifications match yours. There are many training bodies and bodies that issue diving certifications. However, the table below can be a starting point for anyone looking to earn a similar certification. Note that these guides are based on maximum air depth, and some grades may go deeper with additional training. You should also note that the maximum depth guides given here are based on air only, and are not definitive.