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Q. |
Why do
people Scuba Dive? |
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Every venture underwater is a new and
exciting opportunity for exploration and discovery. The world
underwater is full of beauty and excitement. Every dive gives
us a glimpse of a unique and fascinating world which is very
different from our own. Scuba diving provides fun, relaxation
and an opportunity to make new friends. Learning to scuba dive
can become the beginning of a lifelong adventure. It can
literally change your life! |
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Q. |
How much
does it cost to become a Certified Scuba Diver? |
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Beginning training consisting of classroom
sessions, pool practice and at least four training dives in
the ocean will generally cost under $250. In addition to the
cost of instruction' you will want to own your mask, snorkel
and fins. Most scuba schools furnish scuba equipment for
use during pool sessions. For the ocean training dives
you may either purchase or rent the scuba equipment, wetsuit
and weights required to complete the class. The expense
you will incur for equipment purchase and rental will vary
depending on which items you choose to rent and which ones you
decide to purchase. To complete your course, most scuba
schools require that each student purchase a student kit
consisting of log book, textbook, workbook and dive
tables. These kits are priced from $35 to $55. |
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Q. |
How long
does it take? |
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A training program which leads to
international certification as an Openwater Scuba Diver will
take about 35 hours. The training can often be completed in as
little as two weekends or it can be scheduled over several
weeks. Professional scuba schools will have a variety of
options available to accommodate your needs. Private lessons,
accelerated training and home study programs are readily
available in most areas. |
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Q. |
When are
classes offered? |
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Scuba certification classes are given year
around in the Birmingham area. Your lessons will begin
in a comfortable heated pool which will prepare you for an
easy transition to open water training. Since water
temperature in the South varies from season to season we can
enjoy good diving the warmer time of the year. Check out
our Calendar of Events
page.
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Q. |
Where is
the best diving spots? |
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Some of the best diving in the world is
found along the west coast. The kelp forests off all of
Northern California, including Monterey and Carmel are world
famous for their beauty and abundance of life. The Channel
Islands out of Santa Barbara and Los Angeles are also world
class dive destinations attracting divers from all over the
world. The fact is that there is beautiful diving found in I
nearly every ocean in the world. Experienced divers will
debate which is the 'best', but few dispute that the Pacific
Ocean, north and south is spectacular! We live relatively
close to Seagrove
and frequent this site that features a unique marine ecology
that has is indigenous to the Gulf area. |
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Q. |
Can I
start my training with ScubaVentures and complete my open
water dives on vacation to another destination? |
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Yes. That process is called open water
referral. You complete the classroom training, pool practice
sessions and written work through your local scuba retailer.
Your instructor will furnish you with an official referral
form which documents your successful completion of the first
part of the training. You can then make arrangements for a
certified instructor at your tropical destination to complete
the open water training. This option is recommended for people
who plan to dive exclusively in warm water. If you plan to
enjoy diving in Seagrove,
or the British Virgin Islands we suggest all your training be
completed here. |
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Q. |
What are
the requirements to take a scuba certification class? |
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Anyone who is at least 12 years old and in
normal good health can learn to scuba dive. You do not have to
be an exceptionally strong swimmer or an athlete. Scuba diving
is a relaxing, safe sport which is enjoyed by people of all
ages and backgrounds. If you have any concerns about your
health or swimming skills as it relates to scuba diving you
should discuss them with an instructor at your local PADI
member. |
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Q. |
What about
equipment? |
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Learning to dive is learning to use
equipment. While you are learning, it is just as important
that you use good equipment that fits properly as it is that
you have good training. The best source for advise and
assistance in selecting the right equipment is your local PADI
member, or visit our store.
Scuba equipment is constantly being improved and new designs
and technology are becoming available on a regular basis. Your
local professional scuba retailer will have the most
up-to-date products and information available. If you do not
already own them, you will probably want to purchase your own
mask' snorkel, fins and dive boots when you enroll in a scuba
class. The staff of your local dive store will assist and
advise you in selecting the items that are best for you. |
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|
|
Q. |
What about
equipment? |
|
|
Learning to dive is learning to use
equipment. While you are learning, it is just as important
that you use good equipment that fits properly as it is that
you have good training. The best source for advise and
assistance in selecting the right equipment is your local PADI
member, or visit our store.
Scuba equipment is constantly being improved and new designs
and technology are becoming available on a regular basis. Your
local professional scuba retailer will have the most
up-to-date products and information available. If you do not
already own them, you will probably want to purchase your own
mask' snorkel, fins and dive boots when you enroll in a scuba
class. The staff of your local dive store will assist and
advise you in selecting the items that are best for you. |
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Q. |
Who can
certify divers? |
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 Here is a list of agencies:
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