You must first complete a training program and then receive a certification from a certifying organization to become a certified diver. PADI, Scuba Diving International, and SSI give scuba diving certifications. Although there are many other certification bodies, such as SSI and PADI, these are the most popular. Learn more about certification. We will discuss the advantages of each certification and how you can choose the right one.
PADI
PADI stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors. The organization was formed in 1966 by John Cronin and Ralph Erickson. It offers membership and training for divers. Before instructing others, members need to obtain the PADI certification. PADI certifications are internationally recognized. They are considered the standard for instruction in diving. These certifications provide the best safety and training possible for all scuba divers.
Scuba Diving International
Scuba Diving International, (SADI), offers scuba certifications. Technical Diving International is Technical Diving International's recreational arm. SADI's mission is to teach people how to dive. Certifications are offered for all levels of diving, including beginners, advanced divers, and professional instructors. Besides scuba certifications, SADI also provides a wealth of information about scuba diving.
SSI
If you're in the market for a new scuba certification, you're probably wondering which is the best option. SSI and PADI courses are very similar in most respects, but the difference lies in the order in which the skills are taught. PADI requires that all students must complete all skills within a set order. SSI is more flexible and allows a diver the flexibility to skip a skill if it's not working. This will allow them to gain confidence.
Other certifying bodies
There are many agencies that offer scuba diving certifications. While many of these agencies adhere to the same basic hierarchy and requirements, some names and requirements might be different. In general, open water, divermaster, or instructor will all be equivalent in certification. The following table gives an idea of the qualifications for scuba diving. Benchmarks are the ISO 24801-2, ISO 24801-3, or BSAC certificates.
Specialties available
You can get certification in scuba diving with many specialties such as deep dives and even ice diving. These specialized courses allow divers to explore new worlds below the ocean's surface. There are literally hundreds of different specialty courses available to divers. Some of these include night diving, where divers can observe nocturnal creatures such as octopi and certain types of fish. Some of these courses even allow divers to weave baskets while underwater.
Certification scuba diving costs
The cost to become certified scuba diver varies according to the location and class. The PADI Open Water certification course, for example, costs around $500, although it can cost a bit more if you plan to dive in Maui. The cost of the certification includes the cost of scuba gear, including a mask and fins. Getting certified is a lifetime achievement, and is a great way to start scuba diving in the ocean.