1. Is Scuba Diving safe?
2. What does it mean to be “Open Water Certified”?
3. How physically strenuous is it to get certified? Do I have to be in great shape?
4. Do I need to be a great swimmer?
5. Is Scuba Diving expensive?
6. Should I buy my own equipment, as opposed to renting? Is there any equipment that I MUST buy to get certified?
7. Is there a minimum age to dive? Is there a maximum?
8. Do you offer group discounts on classes, or student discounts on merchandise?
9. What do you wear diving?
10. I’m very interested in diving, however, I don’t really know any other divers. Once I’m certified, do you plan group dive trips? Could you help me meet some new dive buddies?
11. What is the difference between PADI and PDIC?

1. Is Scuba Diving safe?

The simple answer is YES! Scuba diving is safe if you are a safe diver. Most accidents that happen in scuba diving are a result of diver error. If you have the proper training, keep current on developments in the dive industry, follow the appropriate dive tables, know the industry standards and always dive with a buddy in safe conditions you will not have a problem. It is safer to go for a dive then go for a drive!

2. What does it mean to be “Open Water Certified”?

An “Open Water” certified diver is a diver who has gone through the 4 day Scuba training course, and has learned and demonstrated the skills necessary to dive recreationally both safely and confidently. Once you go through the fun and exciting process of learning to Scuba, you will receive a Certification Card (C-Card). The divemaster will require this card when you book a dive, or what to rent equipment.

3. How physically strenuous is it to get certified? Do I have to be in great shape?

Scuba diving is a physically demanding sport, which requires a healthy heart, well-able to tolerate exercise, and healthy lungs. But, you don’t have to be a Navy Seal. Anyone in reasonably good shape shouldn’t have any problems. Any illness which might incapacitate you, such as with a seizure, or with unconsciousness, such as epilepsy, may disqualify you from diving. There are also other medical conditions which are considered disqualifying for scuba diving. The Diver's Alert Network (phone +1.919.684.2948) will provide over-the-phone advice about medicine, medications, diving, and their interaction, as well as assisting you in finding an appropriate local doctor who is familiar with diving and medicines. Before you begin your SCUBA training, an instructor will go through a detailed medical history and report with you to determine if you have any conditions which may make diving unsafe for you. If such a condition exists, it is still possible that you may SCUBA; however, you will be required to get a complete physical and clearance from a doctor before you begin training.

4. Do I need to be a great swimmer?

No. You only need to be a comfortably proficient swimmer that is relaxed in the water. The swimming requirement for open water certification is an easy 200-yd swim with a mask and fins and no time limit. It’s followed by a 10-minute tread and float. I’ve yet to see someone fail this test during training.

5. Is Scuba Diving expensive?

Not really. Like any hobby or sport, such as golf, or skiing, you can invest as little or as much as you want. Most dive centers rent equipment, so you can buy equipment slowly, over time, and rent what you don’t have. Because we’re lucky enough to live in South Florida, we have access to some of the most magnificent diving in the world, without extended travel. For an example, a day of diving is about equivalent to 18 holes of golf, or a lift ticket and snow-ski rental for the day.

6. Should I buy my own equipment, as opposed to renting? Is there any equipment that I MUST buy to get certified?

That depends. We supply all the equipment necessary for your open water SCUBA training. However, you may want to purchase a mask, snorkel and fins at the beginning of your training. These items, more than any other, require a personalized fit, and the perfect fit will make your dive training an even better experience. These items can be purchased for a very reasonable price, and, ALL AQUATIC VENTURES STUDENTS RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT ON ALL STORE MERCHANDISE.

Depending on your interest level, there are definitely benefits to owning your own equipment versus renting. Simply having your own BC, regulator and gauges can make your dive exponentially more enjoyable. Proper fit, familiarity with your equipment, and the knowledge that your equipment has been well-maintained and not used by 1000 other people, is well-worth the investment.

7. Is there a minimum age to dive? Is there a maximum?

You must be at least 15 years old to obtain your Open Water Certification. However, we also have a Jr. Open Water Certification for students between the ages of 12-14. Once certified, a Jr. Diver is able to dive world-wide, but only with another certified instructor, which will usually be present at most dive locations.

There is no maximum age limit for diving, as long as you are young at heart.

8. Do you offer group discounts on classes, or student discounts on merchandise?

Yes, we are more than happy to schedule individuals for our training classes, and we also offer private classes for those who want the most personal attention possible. All students receive a 10% discount on all store merchandise, from their first day of training.

9. What do you wear diving?

That all depends on how you react to different water temperatures. For example, in the summer, South Florida water temperatures are extremely warm, and do not require a wetsuit. However, you may choose to wear a thin, short suit for protection from scrapes and the marine environment. Many divers just wear a t-shirt, or a rash guard, which is a thin shirt made of Lycra. In colder water temperatures, in the winter, or northern dive locations, a wetsuit is necessary. They come in many different styles and thickness. The wetsuit that you choose will depend on the climate and water temperatures that you plan on diving in.

10. I’m very interested in diving, however, I don’t really know any other divers. Once I’m certified, do you plan group dive trips? Could you help me meet some new dive buddies?

Definitely! We plan weekly boat charters, and help divers meet other divers. Please see our “Dive Club” section. Submit your e-mail address and join the club. We send out weekly e-mails about upcoming dive trips, which is a great time to meet new divers!

11. What is the difference between PADI and PDIC?

Other than the name, not a whole lot. There are 10-15 different Scuba training agencies in the world. However, they are all held to the same standards, and will teach you all the same skills. PDIC exceeds minimum standards, providing 2 extra hours of classroom training, and an additional open water training session, above and beyond what is required. Driving schools, for example, may be different in name, but they are going to teach you all the same rules of the road. The most important thing is to find an instructor and dive shop that you like and feel comfortable with.