PADI Open Water Diver Program
Now is the time to dive into the PADI Open Water Diver course, the most popular dive program in the world! This is your ticket to a lifetime of intense adventure with PADI, the dive company that sets the standards in the global diving community.
Why PADI Open Water?
As a certified PADI Open Water Diver, the most widely recognized and respected rating in the world, you have the freedom to dive with a buddy independent of a professional. If you have already tried a PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience or are PADI Scuba Diver certified, check with your instructor to see how credit from these courses may apply to the open water program.
What do I need to start?
Virtually anyone who is in good health, reasonably fit, and comfortable in the water can earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification. You must be older than the age of 14 to begin the PADI Open Water Diver program. For those of you who are not above the age of 14 and would like to participate in the PADI Open Water Diver Program, then the PADI Jr Open Water Diver program is available to you. If you are between 10 and 14 or have a child between these ages, there is a PADI Junior Open Water Diver program available.
- A PADI Jr Open Water Diver between the ages of 10 and 11 years may only dive with a PADI Professional, a certified parent or certified guardian to a maximum depth of 12 metres/40 feet.
What will I do?
Throughout the course, you’ll learn fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. You earn this rating by completing five pool dives and knowledge development sessions and by making four open water ocean dives.
You will also need to demonstrate confidence in the water by completing a 200m continuous swim, and a 10 minute flotation exercise. There is also a 50 question multiple choice exam to be taken.
Prior to the course you will receive an Openwater crewpak with a course manual. It is important to read all 5 chapters and complete all 5 knowledge reviews before starting the course, in order to give you a stronger base for learning new concepts.
How long will it take?
PADI programs are performance based. You proceed as you demonstrate mastery of the course skills. This allows you to work at a pace that is comfortable for you. However, it can usually be completed over 4 days or 2 weekends or 10 evenings or a mixture of all three.
Where can I go from here?
Continue the adventure with PADI’s Adventures in diving program, you next step in exploring the underwater world. Stop by West Wales Diving Centre for more information on the PADI ‘Adventures In Diving’ program.