Dive into adventure

Most students complete Open Water Diver in two weekends: pool and academics the first weekend, then ocean training dives the second weekend, often at Catalina Island. Private instruction can be scheduled faster or spread out to fit your calendar. We confirm exact dates when you enroll so you can plan ferry, hotel, and travel in advance.

You should be comfortable in the water and able to swim continuously for a short distance and float for a few minutes, as required by training standards. You do not need to be an athlete, but basic water comfort helps you focus on learning dive skills instead of fighting nerves. If you are unsure, start with Discover Scuba in the pool — our instructors will honestly tell you when you are ready to move toward certification.

Our all-inclusive Open Water packages typically cover e-learning, pool sessions, ocean training dives, round-trip Catalina ferry, two nights of hotel on the island, full scuba gear for training (mask and snorkel are usually personal items), and certification processing. Meals, gratuities, and optional upgrades are separate unless your booking confirmation says otherwise. Private and partial packages may list different inclusions — always review your checkout summary or ask us before you pay.

Group classes follow a set schedule with other students and are the most affordable way to earn your certification. Private instruction is built around your calendar, pace, and goals — ideal if you want one-on-one coaching, need to finish quickly before a trip, or prefer training at a pool you already have access to. Both paths meet the same certification standards; private training simply gives you more flexibility and personalized attention.

Renting is smart while you are learning, so you can try different fits before investing. Most certified divers eventually buy a mask, snorkel, and fins because fit and comfort matter most. Regulators, BCDs, and wetsuits can wait until you know how often you will dive locally and on trips. Our shop offers in-stock gear and print-on-demand apparel; instructors are happy to recommend what to buy first based on your training and dive plans.

Discover Scuba is for people who want to try breathing underwater without committing to full certification — you get a supervised pool experience and a taste of what diving feels like. A Refresher is for certified divers who have been out of the water for a while and need to rebuild skills, buoyancy control, and confidence before ocean dives or travel. If you already hold a certification card, choose Refresher; if you have never been certified, start with Discover Scuba or Open Water.