Do you want to start scuba diving but your not sure whether to start? This article explain the difference between the 3 most popular options for beginners.
Scuba diving is an incredible experience that allows you to explore the underwater world and encounter various marine species up close. But before embarking on a scuba diving adventure, it’s essential to learn the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is the world’s leading scuba diving training organization that offers various courses to cater to different skill levels. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between three of the most popular PADI courses at Cydive, Paphos – the Discover Scuba Diving, PADI Scuba Diver, and PADI Open Water courses.
Discover Scuba Diving:
The Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) program is an introductory experience that allows you to try scuba diving without committing to a full certification course. This program is ideal for those who want to experience scuba diving for the first time, or those who don’t have enough time to complete a full certification course. The DSD program is first conducted in our very own training pool, where you’ll learn basic scuba skills and get comfortable with the equipment. After completing the skills, you’ll be taken on a shallow open water dive on the Roman Wall, where you’ll get to explore the underwater world with an instructor by your side. The DSD program does not result in a certification, but you’ll receive a certificate of completion that can be credited towards the PADI Scuba Diver or PADI Open Water course (for the next 14 days).
PADI Scuba Diver:
The PADI Scuba Diver course is an entry-level certification course that can be completed in just 1.5 days. This course is perfect for those who want to learn scuba diving but don’t have the time to complete the full PADI Open Water course. The Scuba Diver course includes three knowledge development sections, three confined water dives, and two open water dives. During the course, you’ll learn basic scuba diving skills, dive planning, and how to use scuba equipment. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a certification that allows you to dive with a PADI professional up to a depth of 12 meters.
PADI Open Water:
The PADI Open Water course is the most popular scuba diving course and is recognized worldwide. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of scuba diving and equip you with the necessary skills to become a confident and competent diver. The Open Water course includes five knowledge development sections, five confined water dives, and four open water dives. During the course, you’ll learn everything from dive theory, buoyancy control, navigation, and dive planning. You’ll also get to practice your skills in our training pool before taking your skills to the open water. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a certification that allows you to dive independently with a dive buddy up to a depth of 18 meters.
All 3 courses include an element of theory in advance, this is done using the PADI eLearning products. The theory for discover scuba diving takes just 20 minutes where as the Scuba Diver and Open Water course theory can take between 6-12 hours to complete.
In summary, the Discover Scuba Diving program is an introductory experience that allows you to try scuba diving without committing to a full certification course. The PADI Scuba Diver course is an entry-level certification course that can be completed in just 1.5 days, and the PADI Open Water course is the most popular scuba diving course that provides a comprehensive understanding of scuba diving and equips you with the necessary skills to become a confident and competent diver. At Cydive, Paphos, all courses are conducted by experienced and certified PADI instructors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable diving experience.