The SDI Open Water Scuba Diver course is an entry-level certification that provides the foundational skills and knowledge needed for safe recreational scuba diving. This globally recognized certification allows graduates to dive independently with a buddy to depths up to 18 meters (60 feet) in conditions similar to their training.

Prerequisites

To enroll in the SDI Open Water Scuba Diver course, participants must:

• Minimum Age: 10 years old (parental consent required for minors).
• Swimming Skills: Be able to swim 200 meters without equipment or 300 meters with mask, fins, and snorkel, and float for 10 minutes.
• Physical Health: Be in good health and complete a medical questionnaire (a physician’s clearance may be required).

Course Structure

The course includes both academic learning and hands-on training:

1. Knowledge Development: Online or classroom-based modules covering dive theory, equipment use, safety procedures, and dive planning.
2. Confined Water Sessions: Pool or controlled environment sessions to practice core scuba skills like buoyancy, mask clearing, and regulator recovery.
3. Open Water Dives: Four instructor-supervised dives in open water to apply and demonstrate learned skills in real-world settings.

Duration

The course is typically completed over 3 to 4 days, though the self-paced online learning format allows for flexible scheduling depending on the dive center and student.

Certification Outcome

Upon successful completion, participants receive the SDI Open Water Scuba Diver certification, enabling them to:

• Dive with a buddy to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet).
• Rent scuba gear and book dive excursions worldwide.
• Continue their diving education through advanced and specialty SDI courses.

Course Name

SDI_Open_Water_Scuba_Diver

Included in package

e-learning course classroom sessions pool dives 4 open water dives air fills rental of the life support gear (bcd, regulator, dive computer, wetsuit, weights, and scuba cylinders) Digital Certification Card

Not included in package

Transportation to and from dive site Private 1-on-1 training (contact us for private courses) Boat Charter fees (if applicable) You will need to own or purchase Scuba quality mask, fins, dive boots, and a snorkel for this class.

Other information

Classroom and Pool Sessions After completing your e-learning course you will need to come to the dive shop for a classroom session. During that time we will go over the course, dive gear set-up, and answer any questions you may have. If you need to purchase a gear package we can assist you during that time. Pool training is normally held on Sunday afternoons at a local facility in the midlands area. There are also other days and times available for pool training. Open Water Dives: After sucessfull completion of the pool session, students must successfully complete at least 4 open water dives to receive certification. Dives are normally held at Lake Murray or Lake Jocassee during the warmer months. When the water gets cold we will dive at Lake Keowee or the Flordia Springs (additional fees may be associated). We suggest everyone to do boat dives at Lake Jocassee or Lake Keowee to get the most out of your training experience. However, shore dives are included with the cost of the course at Lake Murray. If you opt for a boat dive, it is additional $75 per day for open water students.

Cancellation Policy

We understand plans can change. Please review our cancellation terms:

• Full refund if you cancel 7 days or more before the event.
• 50% refund if you cancel between 2 and 6 days before the event.
• No refund for cancellations made less than 48 hours before the event.
• No-shows are non-refundable.

If the event is canceled by the dive shop due to weather, safety, or other operational reasons, a full refund or rescheduling option will be offered.