PADI Open Water Scuba Course

Open Water Scuba Diver: 

'Open Water Diver' Certification is the first level of formal scuba training through PADI for everyone above the age of 15.  After completing online coursework (Step 1), full certification takes place on a schedule worked out between you and Ames Scuba.  The first weekend (Step 2 - 'Confined Water Dives') encompasses several training sessions in the pool.  The second weekend (Step 3 - 'Open Water Certification Dives') involves four dives in Open Water - think quarry, lake, cenote, gulf, or ocean. 

 Ames Scuba can also offer a referral if you want to complete the open water dives at a location that you booked your vacation at.

Course Flow

Step 1 - Knowledge Development - eLearning

• • • Contact Ames Scuba to sign up for the course and you will receive a code to access the online classroom.

    • Complete all modules before our first meeting.

Step 2 - Learn to Scuba & Confined Water Dives 

• • • Take and pass the Quick Review Quiz 

    • Get fitted for a BCD. The BCD is for use in the pool and during certification dives.  Assemble and disassemble the scuba kit a couple of times

• • • You will successfully complete a continuous swim of 200 yards followed by a 10 minute tread water / survival float are required before you can continue on with the scuba training

    • You will learn and practice key skills for safely using scuba equipment

Step 3 - Open Water Certification Dives 

Four dives over two days - Locally available in Virginia  April - October with or year round on a trip.

You will need to successfully complete four open water scuba dives to earn your certification. Each dive has a set of skills that you will perform with confidence and competence. These are the same ones that we did in the pool. Once complete, you will have earned your PADI Open Water Scuba Diver Certification Card that is valid for life.

These can be completed locally over a weekend(s), on a dive trip, or with a referral.

Pricing

Ames Scuba offers Steps 1 and 2 together as a course package.  Higher level packages include gear that you keep for you next dive class or dive adventure (highly recommended!).  Please contact us for advice on which package is best for you!  We have numerous additional gear options and upgrades for you to choose from.

Ames Scuba offers Step 3 after you have completed the above with us or another PADI operator.  We offer the Open Water dives locally from spring through fall, or on any Ames Scuba dive trip all year round!