An introductory course can be a great way to get started if you are keen to dive but not sure where you should start. Also known as a buceo (or baptism of water), this course is a great choice for those with little or no experience and those who are short on time. You can begin diving in 12 metres or up, but you'll need a dive instructor to complete the course. If you decide to take any additional classes, you can upgrade to the next level, such as a Rescue or Advanced open water certification.
PADI Scuba Diver
There are many PADI Scuba Diver level options. The introductory course can be taken by those just starting out and they can then move up to the next level after they have reached certain competency levels. PADI Scuba Diver courses are made up of 14 modules that can be broken down into three sections. The course usually lasts three days, but can be upgraded in as little as 1/1.5 days. This is the most sought-after course and allows you to dive to 18m.
Open water diving for advanced divers
Open water divers who have successfully completed an Open Water Diver Course are considered advanced open water divers. AOW divers are able to dive at deeper depths than the recommended 60 feet. AOW divers can also work on buoyancy or air consumption. Advanced open water divers can also dive in specialty areas like wreck diving. There are many levels to an AOW certificate. Below are the differences between the levels. Continue reading to learn more about the different levels.
Rescue diver
There are three types of Rescue Diver certificates: one for recreational diving, the other for technical diving and one for dive leader. International Standards Organisation (ISO) sets the standards for these levels. These training levels are based respectively on BS EN14413-2:2004 & ISO 24801-1. Instructors who are level-one can instruct recreational divers and assess their knowledge to the level of a diver. They also have the ability to plan and conduct dives. They can also teach rescue techniques and guide other divers in open water.
Cave-1 class
An instructor must have minimum 40 hours of experience and academic instruction to be certified as a cave diver. The course content covers cave diving skills and procedures, emergency procedures, and information about the hazards and challenges in the environment. During their cave course, students are tested on their skills. There are two parts to the course: academics and water-based activities. The students must pass a quiz, take an exam, and prove their skill and proficiency. Students must complete the cave diving course manual.
Master Scuba Diver
Master Scuba Diver certification has five levels. Open Water diving is your first level. Here you can learn how to safely dive and manage your scuba gear. You can choose electives from the next two levels. As a Master Scuba Diving Diver, you are allowed to dive with certified others. This level also comes with a 10% discount on the five courses.