If you are interested in becoming certified in open water scuba diving, you may be wondering about the different brands and courses that are available. You have many options when it comes to this type of course. You can choose to get certified with SSI or PADI. You should wait until you're more experienced in scuba diving before you purchase scuba gear. After all, you will need it to dive.
PADI
Once you have your PADI open-water scuba certification, there are many options available for your diving vacation. You have the option to dive in a city's waters or explore the natural world like the Belize Blue Hole and Australia's Great Barrier Reef. You can expect to pay anywhere from $350-$500 depending upon where you learn. For example, you could take private lessons for three hours and then join a PADI instructor on a dive trip for the remainder.
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 several SSI certification options. One option is SSI Autonomous Diver, which provides the most thorough introductory training. You can also take the course online. Sign up now for the free student package and the lifetime "diamond” package to get started.
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 are rigid and make it difficult for you to alter the pace of your learning. 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 programs
PADI & SSI may have a lot to share, but how are they different? Both require that you purchase course materials in advance. PADI courses are in a hardcover book format while SSI classes can be accessed online. The difference lies within the materials. PADI courses often have a longer curriculum, and may require more adventure divers than SSI. You will also need to be more comfortable with PADI courses than SSI courses.
SSI classes
SSI is well-known for their high 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 allows you to log your dives and track your progress. You can also view your qualification status from the palm your hand.
Other certifications available in scuba diving
You might wonder if any other open water scuba certifications match yours. While there are many training agencies and bodies that award diving qualifications, the table below provides a rough guide for those seeking to gain a similar certification. Note that these guides are based on maximum air depth, and some grades may go deeper with additional training. Please note that these maximum depth guides are only estimates and not final.