A training course must be completed before you can earn your scuba diving certification. Scuba diving certification is given by PADI, Scuba Diving International, or SSI. There are also other certifying agencies, like SSI. However, these are the most well-known. Continue reading to learn more about certification. We'll talk about the benefits and which certification is best for you.
PADI
PADI stands as Professional Association of Diving Instructors. The organization was formed in 1966 by John Cronin and Ralph Erickson. It is a membership-based and diver training organization. Members are required to earn the PADI certification before they can instruct others. PADI certifications can be recognized internationally as 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 offers certifications as well as training. Technical Diving International (TDI), the recreational arm of Scuba Diving International, has this organization. SADI's aim is to help divers improve their skills. There are certifications available for all levels of diving including advanced divers and beginners. SADI offers many other information, including certifications for scuba diving.
SSI
If you're in the market for a new scuba certification, you're probably wondering which is the best option. PADI and SSI courses are similar in many respects. The difference lies in how skills are taught. PADI requires that all students finish all skills in a predetermined order. SSI's flexibility allows a diver who is struggling with a skill to skip it. This will allow them to gain confidence.
Other certifying bodies
There are many agencies that give scuba divers certifications. While most agencies have the same basic structure, their names and requirements may differ. The equivalent certification levels are open water, instructor, and divemaster. This table provides an overview of scuba diving qualifications. As benchmarks, the ISO 24801-2, ISO 24801-3 and BSAC certifications are used.
Specialties available
You can get certification in scuba diving with many specialties such as deep dives and even ice diving. These courses take divers to new places beneath the sea's surface. Divers can choose from hundreds of different specialty courses. Some of these include night diving, where divers can observe nocturnal creatures such as octopi and certain types of fish. Divers can even weave baskets underwater with some of these courses.
Certification scuba diving costs
There are many factors that affect the cost of certification. PADI Open Water certification costs approximately $500. It can be more expensive if you want to dive in Maui. The certification costs include the cost of your scuba gear (including a mask, fins, and snorkel). Being certified is a lifelong achievement that will allow you to dive in the ocean.