Frequently Asked Questions
Is learning to dive difficult?
No, it's probably easier than you imagine -- especially if you're already comfortable in the water. PADI's entry-level course consists of pool diving, knowledge development and open water dives. The course is performance based, meaning that you progress as you learn and demonstrate knowledge and skill.How long does it take to become a certified SCUBA diver?
PADI courses are performance based, which means that you earn your certification when you demonstrate that you've mastered the required skills and knowledge. Because some learn faster than others, course duration varies. For example, the PADI Open Water Diver course can be split into five or six sessions over as little as two days to a much as six weeks.I need to be physically fit to SCUBA dive?
Before getting certified, you should be in good physical health. If you are not sure that you're fit enough, see your doctor.Do I have to be able to swim?
You don't need to be an Olympic swimmer, but you do need to have a few basic skills. The SCUBA certification process includes a swim test that you must pass. If you can't swim, sign up for lessons.I have a certain Medical Condition does this mean that I cannot dive?
It depends on what kind of medical condition it is. Consult a doctor before signing up because you will be required to fill in documents that will require you to explain your medical conditions and may require a doctor’s certificate to prove that you are medically fit.What age to I need to be to participate in SCUBA diving?
Anyone 15 years or older can become an Open Water Diver. Children between the ages of 10 and 15 can receive a Junior Open Water Diver certification. At the age of 15 they can upgrade to a regular Open Water Diver certification. There are programs available for younger children (8 to 10 years) that will help prepare them for certification such as the Bubblemaker.What's in a SCUBA tank? Oxygen?
Recreational divers breathe air, not oxygen. The air in a SCUBA tank is like the air you're breathing but is also filtered to remove impurities.How long does a tank of air last?
Since people breathe at different rates and as you go deeper you consume air faster, there isn't any one answer. Because of this, divers carry a gauge that lets them know how much air is in the tank. However, divers in calm, warm water from 5-10 metres/15-30 feet can spend about one hour underwater with an average tank.My ears hurt when I dive to the bottom of a pool. Won't they hurt when I SCUBA dive?
Your ears hurt because of the water pressure on your eardrum. In your SCUBA course, you'll learn simple techniques to equalize your ears to the surrounding pressure, much like you do when you land in an airplane.In the movies and on TV, divers are always running into sharks or eels. Should I be concerned about marine animals?
Most aquatic animals are passive or timid. A few do bite or sting if provoked, but you can avoid these by not touching them. Divers aren't natural prey for sharks and therefore shark attacks are rare.Is SCUBA diving dangerous?
Most aquatic animals are passive or timid. A few do bite or sting if provoked, but you can avoid these by not touching them. Divers aren't natural prey for sharks and therefore shark attacks are rare.
