It's as easy as 1,2,3! 

1. Complete the PADI Open Water Diver E-Learning 

This portion of the course can be completed anywhere you have internet access and at your own pace. Sign up for your e-learning course here! Please note the online course is an additional fee paid directly to PADI - it is not included in our cost.

2. Pool Training (Confined Water Dives - 2 days)

This is when you meet your instructor and the real fun begins. After a brief knowledge review and a walkthrough of equipment and equipment setup, it's off to the pool where you will learn your basic scuba skills.These sessions will allow you to practice what you have learned online and prepare you for a smooth transition into the open water world.

3. Open Water Dives - 2 days

When you have completed your pool training you will be ready for your four open water certification dives. Here, you will simply repeat the skills you learned during your pool training under the supervision of your instructor in open water (the Gulf or freshwater springs). Upon successful completion of these four dives, you will be a certified Open Water Diver.

Please note that there will be a $25 entrance fee at Vortex Springs. 

What's Included?

Included in the cost of the course ($450 + tax) are the pool training sessions, four open water dives, and all scuba equipment needed for your training - except mask, snorkel and fins.

Required Materials and Equipment

The following items are required to begin the Open Water course:

• Completed PADI Open Water Diver e-learning
• Reviewed Diver Medical Form (click here) - any "YES" answers will require a physician signature before participation in the course 
• Mask, snorkel, fins (some fins will require booties)*

*Your snorkeling kit should be properly sized for comfort, fit and safety. Our experienced and friendly staff will be happy to assist you with your selection to make certain that your equipment is correctly fitted to you.

Please note:

• Students must be at least 10 years of age
• All students are required to be comfortable in the water and know how to swim
• Courses are nonrefundable but may be rescheduled 
• Minimum course size is 4 students