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PADI / SSI Open Water Certification

112 Reviews 4.99 out of 5 stars Based on 112 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

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On average, this is booked 19 (0) days in advance.

3 days (approx.)
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Offered in: English

Overview

If you’ve always wanted to become a certified SCUBA diver, we’ve got you covered! Our PADI instructor will offer you personalized instruction throughout your course so you’re able to get the most out of your certification. We are very committed to safety and strive to make it fun and comfortable while you are getting certified with us. Soon, you will be exploring the reefs and wrecks in St Thomas as a certified diver!

NOTE: The eLearning is not included but must be completed by first in water session.
NOTE 2: Sign up is for one of two boat sessions. We will still need to schedule you for your pool session and another boat session. Contact us for scheduling availability.

What's Included

  • Snacks variety of cookies, crackers, chips
  • US Coast Guard inspected boats
  • USCG licensed Captains
  • PADI or SSI e-learning materials
  • Standard for the island is 20% for adequate service.. but we strive to be well above adequate!
  • Transportation to/from meeting place
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

00802
St Thomas 00802, USVI

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

By registering for this, you are scheduling one of two boat trips of open water checkout dives. Once you book, we will need to schedule your early morning pool session ahead of this date as well as schedule you for a second boat day. Please contact us so we can work with you on your instruction schedule.
We can also help you get your eLearning assigned if you don't have that already. (not included, needs to be completed before beginning in-water training) It usually takes 6 - 12 hours to complete, so start well ahead of in-water day.

You will begin your certification ahead of time by independently completing the online course material.
You will learn skills in a confined water environment with your instructor first before you move onto to performing your skills in training dives in the open-water.
All diving gear is included for your training. For boat days, we provide bottled water and snacks.
The course will require at least 3 half-days in the water (or 1.5 days) to complete all requirements for open water certification.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Divers are advised to allow a minimum of 18 hours after diving before flying.
  • Students will be required to complete a standard Diver Medical Questionnaire on arrival and are also advised to review ahead of time for any health conditions that may require a doctor's written pre-approval.
  • Minimum age 10 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Frequently Asked Questions

(9)

Q: How soon can I fly in an airplane after Scuba diving?

A: Participants in the PADI / SSI Open Water Certification cannot fly in an airplane within 24 hours of their dive. The main concern with scuba diving and flying is decompression sickness (DCS). Your body needs adequate time during an ascent to off-gas excess nitrogen, or you can form bubbles in your bloodstream, possibly leading to DCS. Read more Jun 2024

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-33976P7

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.99
112 reviews

Average 4.99 out of 5 stars based on 112 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
111
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1 star
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On average, this is booked 19 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Snacksvariety of cookies, crackers, chips
  • US Coast Guard inspected boats
  • USCG licensed Captains
  • Beverages (bottled water, soda)
  • New high end Scuba Pro gear, digital spg, integrated weights,
  • PADI or SSI Certified Professional Dive Instructor
  • PADI or SSI e-learning materials
  • Standard for the island is 20% for adequate service.. but we strive to be well above adequate!
  • Transportation to/from meeting place

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • All guests must be able to swim comfortably and capably in an open water environment without assistance.
  • Divers are advised to allow a minimum of 18 hours after diving before flying.
  • Students will be required to complete a standard Diver Medical Questionnaire on arrival and are also advised to review ahead of time for any health conditions that may require a doctor's written pre-approval.
  • Minimum age 10 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • you will need to complete eLearning before starting the in-water training. Find eLearning here https://www.padi.com/courses/open-water-diver?irra=21917
  • Please contact us to schedule pool and open water dives. We can also help assign eLearning.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers
  • Operated by a business

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