Frequently asked questions

I teach NAUI and DAN courses.

You need to be at least 10 years old, in good health, and comfortable in the water to be certified in the Basic Open Water Scuba Diver course. Specialty courses may have additional certification, age, and diving experience requirements.

You must purchase your specific personal gear for the course, (I will advise you of an awesome local dive shop to purchase), sign all waivers, and finish 100% of your e-learning prior to the start date of your course. I understand that life can be unpredictable, but it is essential that you complete 100% of the e-learning before the Open Water checkout dive weekend—no exceptions.

Personal gear includes the following items: mask, snorkel, fins, boots, and surface marker buoy. Because scuba gear is highly personal, we recommend that everyone uses their own personal gear for the best experience. It’s important for your gear to be individually fitted. Most all of your check out dives will be done at a local quarry with cold water, you will need to rent a wetsuit or purchase one.

You will need to complete some paperwork, including a liabitly relase, and medical fitness statement. You may need to be evualted by a MD before diving for certain conditions. All course fees must be paid in advance and are non-refundable.

I stick with a strick 1:1 1:2 ratio of student to instructor. My classes are considered private. I feel that the student recieves more attention and I can focus on their needs better.

Certification times vary depending on the course. The Basic Open Water Scuba Diver course includes confined water sessions, which typically take 2 pool days and can be spread over two weeks or completed in a single weekend. It also includes open water checkout dives that generally take an entire weekend (Saturday and Sunday). The advanced and specialty courses usually require only a single weekend day (or 2 separate days) to complete. All classes have an e-learning portion that takes several hours to complete. All classes must be completed in 6 months. Your certification never expires. Most dive destinations will require that you prove you have dove in the last 12 months or have taken a refreasher course before diving.