FAQs:

Q:  What equipment do I need to start?

A:  All you need is a mask, snorkel and fins.  I supply everything else.  If you need help deciding which type of mask, snorkel and fins you should buy, just contact me and I can help you.  I will even meet you at a dive shop to help you.

Q:  Do I need to be a good swimmer to SCUBA dive?

A:  You do need basic swimming skills.  During the course, you must be able to swim 200 metres/yards (or 300 metres/yards in mask, fins and snorkel) without stopping. There is no time limit for this, and you may use any swimming strokes you want.  You must also float/tread water for 10 minutes, using any method you want.

Q: How old do you have to be to get certified?

A: The minimum age is 10 years old.  Student divers who are younger than 15 earn the PADI Junior Open Water certification.

Q:  How long does it take to get certified?

A:  The PADI Open Water Diver course is flexible and performance based.  I base the schedule to meet your needs. It’s possible to complete your confined and open water dives in two or three days after completing the knowledge development portion via PADI eLearning.  However, my concern is that you feel completely comfortable with all skills...no matter how long it takes.

Q:  What about sharks?

A:  When you’re lucky, you get to see a shark. Although incidents with sharks occur, they are very rare and, with respect to diving, primarily involve spear fishing or feeding sharks, both of which trigger feeding behavior. Most of the time, if you see a shark it’s just passing through and a rare sight to enjoy.

Q:  How deep do you go?

A: With the necessary training and experience, the limit for recreational scuba diving is 40 metres/130 feet. Beginning scuba divers stay shallower...about 18 metres/60 feet. Although these are the limits, some of the most popular diving is shallower than 12 metres/40 feet, where the water’s warmer and the colors are brighter.

If you have additional questions, just email or call me!