How Do You Become a Certified Scuba Diver?

It's Easier Than You Think.

Your PADI Open Water course takes you step-by-step from learning the basics at home to becoming comfortable underwater and completing four real ocean dives.

Step 1 — Complete Your PADI eLearning at Home

Start whenever you're ready.

Complete your PADI Open Water eLearning online from home and at your own pace before your in-person training.

You'll learn the fundamentals of scuba diving, including how your equipment works, basic dive planning, underwater safety and the skills you'll soon practice in the water.

Your PADI eLearning is included in the $799 course price.

Step 2 — Attend Your Classroom Training

Next, you'll meet your instructor and classmates at Divers Cove for your classroom training session.

We'll review what you learned online, answer your questions, introduce you to the equipment you'll be using and make sure you're prepared before heading to the water.

This is also your opportunity to get to know your instructor and understand exactly what to expect during your training.

Step 3 — Learn to Scuba Dive in the Pool

Now it's time to take your first breaths underwater.

In the controlled environment of the pool, your instructor will teach you how to use your scuba equipment and practice the essential skills you'll need as a diver.

You'll learn to:

• Breathe comfortably underwater

• Use and understand your scuba equipment

• Clear and adjust your mask

• Recover and clear your regulator

• Control your buoyancy

• Communicate underwater

• Dive safely with a buddy

• Handle common diving situations

This is where you practice, repeat skills and build confidence before heading into the ocean.

And because we limit classes to a maximum of four students, your instructor has time to work with you individually.

Step 4 — Complete 4 Ocean Dives From a Boat

Once you've developed your skills and confidence in the pool, it's time for the part you've been waiting for: Real Ocean Diving.

Over the next two days, you'll head out on a South Florida dive boat with your instructor and complete your four PADI Open Water training dives.

Ocean Day 1: Open Water Dives 1 & 2
Ocean Day 2: Open Water Dives 3 & 4

You'll take what you learned in the pool and put it into practice in real ocean conditions while continuing to develop your buoyancy, comfort and confidence underwater.

Complete all four dives and the course requirements and you'll become a:

$799 Means $799

Everything You Need for Training Is Included.

We don't want buying equipment to be the reason you put off learning to scuba.

Your Open Water course includes all the rental equipment you'll need during training.

✓ Mask
✓ Fins
✓ Snorkel
✓ BCD
✓ Regulator
✓ Dive computer
✓ Wetsuit
✓ Scuba tanks
✓ Weights

No Required Equipment Purchase

You don't need to buy a mask, fins, snorkel or other scuba equipment before you learn to dive.

Once you've experienced scuba and understand what you like, our team can professionally fit you for your own equipment if and when you're ready.

Buying equipment is your choice—not a requirement to learn to dive.

Why Learn to Scuba With Divers Cove?

Small Classes — Maximum 4 Students

Learning to scuba isn't something we believe should be rushed.

Some students feel comfortable underwater immediately. Others need a little more time with a particular skill.

That's completely normal.

With a maximum of four students per class, your instructor has time to watch your technique, answer questions and help you become comfortable before progressing.

The Goal Isn't Just Certification. It's Confidence.

4 Real South Florida Ocean Boat Dives

You'll complete all four Open Water training dives from a South Florida dive boat.

That means you're not simply checking off training skills.

You'll experience what it's actually like to prepare for a dive, board the boat, enter the ocean, dive with your buddy and return to the boat.

You're learning how to actually go diving.

PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Center

Divers Cove is a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Dive Center.

We provide diver education from beginner recreational courses through professional-level training.

You'll earn your PADI Open Water Diver certification, giving you the foundation to continue diving and exploring destinations around the world.

Training South Florida Divers Since 1988

We've been part of the South Florida diving community for more than three decades.

Your relationship with Divers Cove doesn't have to end when you become certified.

Join us for local diving, continue your education, explore new dive destinations, get help choosing equipment or simply stop by when you need advice about your next dive.

You're not just taking a course. You're joining a diving community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total cost?

$799.

Your course includes PADI eLearning, classroom and pool training, professional instruction, four ocean boat dives, all required rental equipment and your PADI Open Water certification.

There is no required equipment purchase.

How does the course work?

It's a simple progression:

Complete PADI eLearning at home → Attend classroom training → Learn and practice your scuba skills in the pool → Complete 4 ocean boat dives over 2 days → Become a certified PADI Open Water Diver.

Your practical training is designed to be completed in 3 days, following completion of your eLearning.

Do I need my own mask, fins and snorkel?

No.

Mask, fins and snorkel rental are included in your $799 course.

If you decide you'd like your own equipment after experiencing scuba, we'll be happy to professionally fit you—but purchasing personal equipment is not required for your course.

Does the course really include four boat dives?

Yes.

You'll complete your four PADI Open Water training dives from a South Florida dive boat over two ocean training days, subject to appropriate weather and ocean conditions.

I've never scuba dived before. Can I do this?

Absolutely.

Open Water is designed for complete beginners.

You'll learn the fundamentals at home, review them with your instructor, practice your skills in the pool and progress to the ocean after you've built your confidence.

What if I'm nervous underwater?

That's okay.

Many new divers feel nervous when they first start.

Our maximum class size of four students means your instructor has time to work with you, allow you to practice and help you become comfortable before progressing.

How old do I have to be?

The minimum age is 10 years old.

Students must also have basic swimming ability, be reasonably comfortable in the water and complete the required diver medical questionnaire.

Certain medical responses may require physician approval before practical training.

Does my PADI certification expire?

No.

Once successfully completed, your PADI Open Water certification does not expire.

If you've been out of the water for an extended period, refresher training may be recommended before returning to diving.

Can I take the course with family or friends?

Absolutely. Learning to dive together can make the experience even more memorable.

Because classes are limited to four students, contact us early if you'd like several people to attend the same course.

Call (954) 473-1220 and we'll help coordinate your dates.

Do you offer private training?

Yes. Private PADI Open Water training is available if you'd prefer one-on-one instruction, additional scheduling flexibility or personalized pacing. Call (954) 473-1220 for private training options.