Is scuba diving safe?

Scuba diving is by nature a dangerous sport. Diving is definitely not as safe as bowling! You can have a lifetime of safe, fun, and accident free dives by following safety rules and techniques, which will be stressed at every level of training. We will go over these techniques, as much as needed until you are comfortable. Safety is our primary focus. By the end of your training we are confident your fears of diving will be gone. Our unique training and experience allows us to safely train children as young as 12 yrs. and mature adults 65 + yrs.

How long does it take to become a certified scuba diver?

We designed a unique curriculum for busy professionals. Training through full certification can take as little as 4 days. The class size is small (avg. 4 students). Each candidate receives a high level of one on one instruction. By design the semi private curriculum is intense, comprehensive, and complete. If you need more time or special attention you will receive it.

What are the equipment requirements?

All students are required to purchase a mask, fins, snorkel and neoprene booties to complete the pool and open water training. Additional equipment required for the open water training include: 200m water resistant watch, marine whistle, slate, 10" 304 stainless steel knife, and a signal tube. The average cost of the required basic gear and safety equipment is approximately $500.

Is scuba diving expensive?

The cost of basic scuba instruction ranges from $500 to $700. It does not cost less. Make sure you review (1) a statement of understanding and student learning agreement, and (2) a policies agreement for skin and scuba diving training. These documents fully disclose all costs you will incur and all course requirements. All scuba schools should provide you with these documents.

Do I have to be a great swimmer to scuba dive?

Your training experience will be more enjoyable if you are comfortable in the water. You do no not have to be a competitive swimmer to engage in scuba diving instruction. The gear is designed to make it easier for you to move in the water and it will provide a high level of buoyancy if you get tired.

My ears hurt when I dive down in deep water. Won't they hurt a lot when I try to scuba dive?

A large portion of your training will address diving physics and physiology. You will learn how pressure affects the airspaces in your middle ear and sinuses. You will be taught simple ear and sinus equalization techniques. Once these techniques are taught to the diving candidate most problems are rectified.

Should I buy gear over the internet to save a little money?

No, internet gear retailers purchase the left over inventory of dive shops that have financially failed. In some cases this inventory has been on the shelf deteriorating for years. Most equipment designs don’t change for 5-7 years so you won’t know how long the equipment has been in storage. Internet gear retailers are not recognized by any dive equipment manufacturer. Equipment purchased over the internet is not covered by the manufacturer's lifetime warranty. The equipment you use while diving provides life support. Why risk injury to save a few dollars? Buy your equipment from an authorized dealer.

What are PADI and NAUI?

Worldwide there are hundreds of scuba training agencies. PADI, NAUI, IANTD, SSI, YMCA, NASDS, TDI, PSA, BSAC, just to list a few. No training agency is “absolutely” the best. Some agencies are highly visible and focus on marketing. Other training agencies focus on the theory and academics of sport diving, skill performance, and safety. There are agencies whose training is military in style. You may want a dive instructor who is certified by 2 or more training agencies to get a more rounded experience and education. If you are certified by a recognized training agency, such as the above, you may dive at any resort location worldwide regardless of affiliation.

I wear glasses, is that a problem?

If you wear glasses on the surface you will probably need them underwater to see clearly.Contact lenses can safely be worn underwater during training and recreational diving operations.The worst thing that can happen is you may lose a contact lens.If you prefer glasses your own mask can be easily and inexpensively fitted with corrective lenses.

How old do I need to be?

The minimum age requirement is 10 years old. The maximum age is 65+ years old.

Scuba diving sounds exciting, but I'm not sure if it's for me. How can I find out more?

Everyone needs his or her questions and concerns addressed before enrolling in a recreational scuba diving course. The best way to investigate these issues is to attend an orientation session. The orientation should be free, no obligation. Course requirements, skill performance, scheduling, and financial disclosure should be thoroughly discussed. The information can’t effectively be shared over the phone or over a counter. The session should take place in a formal classroom setting lasting 30-60 minutes. Diving is a serious sport. You need to know the facts as they apply to you in order to make a good decision on your dive training experience. Visit our calendar to see a list of our upcoming orientations.

I'm ready to get started! What do I need to do next?

You need to know if this course of instruction is right for you. Call or email Captain Darrick Lorenzen to schedule a no obligation orientation. If you feel comfortable with everything we will use that session to administratively fill out paperwork required by the training agency. If you are unsure we will part friends. Visit our calendar to see a list of our upcoming orientations.