FAQ
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1
Is it hard to learn to scuba dive?
Learning to scuba dive is not hard for most people. The course is designed to progress at your pace. It involves understanding basic principles (theory class), learning skills in a controlled environment (like a swimming pool), and then applying those skills during open water dives. I’ll be there all along the way!
2
How long does it take to become a certified diver?
PADI Open Water Diver course: The course can be completed in as little as three days with full days of training. My usual timeline: 3 hours theory, 3 hours pool, 2 days open water class.
PADI Advanced Open Water: 3 hour theory; 2 days open water class
PADI Rescue Diver: 3 hour theory; 3 hours pool ; 2 days open water class
3
What are the physical requirements for scuba diving?
You need to have a reasonable level of fitness and comfort in the water. You should be able to swim and float/tread water. A medical questionnaire will help identify any potential issues that might require a doctor's approval before diving.
4
How deep will I go during my open water dives?
In the PADI Open Water Course, you won’t go deeper than 18m/16ft. Most dives for beginners are conducted in shallower water where there's plenty of light and marine life. I tend to take my students at an average of 7-10 metres deep in training.
5
What equipment do I need to buy for the course?
All of your required gear (BCD, Regulator, Wetsuit, Fins, Masks, Snorkels) are included in your course fee. I usually recommend my students to purchase a dive mask and snorkel due to personal hygiene from rentals. Sometimes, a diver vest with hood is a good option, but might be too pricey for a beginner diver (only for those afraid of the cold!).
6
Can I wear glasses or contact lenses when diving?
Yes, you can dive with contact lenses, and there are also prescription masks available that can be made to match most eyeglass prescriptions. Be sure to provide your exact prescriptions to a dive shop to purchase the best fit dive mask.
7
Can children learn to scuba dive?
Yes, absolutely! Children as young as age of 10 years old can enrol in the PADI Open Water Diver Course, but there are specific restrictions for young divers regarding depths and who they dive with.
8
Can I dive if I have a medical condition like asthma?
Many people with chronic conditions can dive safely as long as they have clearance from their physician. I would send you a document to present to your doctor to sign off. It's essential to discuss your specific condition with your doctor and I to ensure safety. If you let me know, I will teach you in more depth of what you should be aware of scuba diving with your condition.
9
What marine life will I see when scuba diving?
The marine life you encounter depends on where you dive in Hong Kong, and when. Most of my students will see: coral communities, coral fishes, clownfish (nemos!), lionfish, and sometimes even seahorses, sting rays, pufferfish, jellyfish etc.!
10
Whats the difference between PADI and other scuba diving institutions (e.g. SSI, SDI, NAUI)?
PADI, NAUI, SSI, SDI, and other organizations are all certifying bodies in scuba diving. Each has its own teaching methodologies and materials, but they all meet the WRSTC (World Recreational Scuba Training Council) standards, and the certifications are generally recognised worldwide. PADI stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors, established in 1966 and is one of the world’s most popular scuba diving curriculum. My instructor license is issued by PADI!
11
How much is a scuba diving course? Whats included? Why is it so expensive?
The cost of scuba diving courses that I offer ranges from 4,000 HKD to 5,500 HKD, depending on the specific course you choose. Here's what's included in this price:
- All Learning Materials: Comprehensive educational content to guide you through the course.
- Instructor Fee: My expertise and personalised instruction are included throughout the course duration. Small class teaching only - maximum of 6 students per class
- Gear Rental Fee: Essential scuba diving gear is provided for all courses except for the Rescue Diver and Reactivate courses.
- Scuba Tank Rental Fee: Tanks are provided for all the necessary dives.
- Pool Entry Fee: Access to the pool for the confined water sessions is covered.
- Boat Fee: I exclusively conduct boat dives, which offer a superior experience compared to shore dives.
- E-Certificate Fee: Upon successful completion, your certification will be processed and an electronic certificate will be issued.
The course fee reflects the value and quality of the training you receive. I have obtained my PADI licenses from renowned diving locations around the world, including Hong Kong, Phuket Thailand, and Koh Tao Thailand. This international experience has equipped me with the knowledge to understand the best environments and instructor qualities for students to learn and fully enjoy the process of becoming a certified scuba diver.
Moreover, I choose to conduct only boat dives, which, while more costly, provide an enriched diving experience away from crowded shore dive sites. These dives allow you to see a greater abundance of marine life and dive in more pristine conditions.
Lastly, it's important to consider the lifetime value of the scuba diving certificate. This isn't just a one-time experience; it's an investment in a lifetime of adventure. If you distribute the cost of the course over the many dives you will enjoy throughout your life, the value becomes evident. The skills you learn and the experiences you gain are incomparable. With this certification, the underwater world is yours to explore, forever (and even better with me😉)
Talk to me so I can understand your needs and give you a quote!
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