You need to complete a training course before becoming a certified diver. Then, you will receive a scuba dive certification from an certifying body. PADI, Scuba Diving International or SSI are the certifying bodies for scuba diving. Other certifying bodies exist, like SSI, however these are the most commonly used. Read on to find out more about certification. We will discuss the advantages of each certification and how you can choose the right one.
PADI
PADI stands to Professional Association of Diving Instructors. John Cronin & Ralph Erickson formed the organization in 1996. It is a membership-based and diver training organization. Members are required to earn the PADI certification before they can instruct others. PADI certifications can be recognized internationally as the standard for instruction in diving. These certifications ensure the highest standards of safety and training for all scuba divers.
Scuba Diving International
Scuba Diving International (SADI) is an organization that offers scuba certifications and training. Technical Diving International's recreational arm, SADI, manages the organization. The goal of SADI is to help people develop their scuba skills. All levels of diving are eligible for certifications, including advanced divers, beginners, and professional instructors. Besides scuba certifications, SADI also provides a wealth of information about scuba diving.
SSI
You're likely to be looking for the best scuba certification. Although the SSI and PADI courses have many similarities, the main difference is in the order that the skills are taught. PADI requires all students to complete all skills in a specific order. SSI allows divers to skip a skill if they are having difficulty with one. This can help them gain confidence in the process.
Other certifying bodies
There are many agencies that offer scuba diving certifications. While many of these agencies adhere to the same basic hierarchy and requirements, some names and requirements might be different. In general, the equivalent certification levels will be open water, divemaster, or instructor. The table below provides a rough guide to scuba diving qualifications. Benchmarks are the ISO 24801-2, ISO 24801-3, or BSAC certificates.
Specialties
There are numerous specialties offered in certification scuba diving, including deep dives and ice diving. These specialized courses allow divers to explore new worlds below the ocean's surface. Divers can choose from hundreds of different specialty courses. One of these is night diving. This allows divers to observe nocturnal species like octopi and fish. Some courses allow divers to make baskets while they are underwater.
Cost of certification scuba diving
There are many factors that affect the cost of certification. The PADI Open Water certification course, for example, costs around $500, although it can cost a bit more if you plan to dive in Maui. The certification costs include the cost of your scuba gear (including a mask, fins, and snorkel). The certification is a life-long accomplishment and is a great starting point for scuba diving in open water.