If you are planning on learning how to scuba dive, you'll
need to complete a training course and receive
certification. For new learners, this means you'll need to
choose between Padi and Naui certification. For experienced
divers, there are a wide range of courses available that
can help you improve your skills and get even more fun out
of your underwater adventures. Here's a breakdown of what
you might be interested in taking.

Padi or Naui?

For new non-divers, the first decision is whether to pursue
Padi or Naui certification. Both dive certification
programs have the same goal and go over the same general
ideas: to teach people how to dive safely. They have solid
reputations and have certified divers all over the world
through their programs. The main difference is that Padi
certification is more popular and is held by most of the
new divers who hit the water.

You might also be limited in choice to what's around you.
Most dive training centers will only offer one type of
certification. Hence, if the you find the dive center
closest to you only offers Naui certification, that may be
the deciding factor. However, the Padi e-learning courses
are giving some options.

Padi E-Learning

While it might sound ridiculous to learn how to scuba dive
through an e-learning class, what you're actually doing is
learning the basics through an online class. Things you
will learn include: recommended scuba gear, how to use your
scuba equipment, and most importantly safety precautions.
You'd take the course at your convenience, pass the online
quizzes meant to test your knowledge, then move onto the
water-portion of your learning at an approved diving center
or resort with a skilled trainer.

This type of course is a good option for someone planning
to go diving for the first time on vacation so you can get
all of the classwork work out of the way and start getting
into the water as soon as you arrive.

Beginning Course

Known as the Open Water Diving Course (Padi) or Scuba Diver
(Naui), this initial course is meant to introduce you to
all of the basics you need to dive. The Padi course, for
example, introduces learners to some of the principles of
scuba diving, as well as the techniques and methods
necessary to move around underwater. The Naui course
promises to do much the same thing, including teaching you
how to use the equipment and learn safety procedures.

As expected, training in the water is required for both
courses. The Naui course, for example, includes at least
five open water dives. The number included in the Padi
course may be up to the diving center or training with whom
you are working.

To become certified as a diver, simply successfully
complete either course. Once you obtain that certification,
the underwater world is open to you. You can easily go
scuba diving and go the next step in you training if
desired.

Courses for Experienced Divers

An important thing to remember is that once you select your
certification you'll need to complete the rest of your
courses through them as well. For example, if you take the
Open Water Diving course through Padi, you'll be able to
take other courses that Padi offers, including more of
their e-learning options.

The Advanced Open Water diving course offered by Padi
covers both deep diving and underwater navigation diving.
You'll also learn about some other exciting and popular
diving activities, such as exploring undersea wreckage or
going night diving. Boat diving is also covered and is also
a popular choice. It is very convenient that there is an
e-learning option for this course.

If you've chosen Naui certification, you'll be able to
choose the Advanced Scuba Course which includes diving in
currents, boat diving, shore diving, and salt and fresh
water diving. There is a six dive minimum for this course.

Other Courses

Both Padi and Naui certification opens up the possibility
of becoming a Master Scuba Diver. This is the ultimate
non-professional certification for a diver. It does include
additional training in a wide variety of diving techniques.

Besides this extra certification, you can also take a
number of specialty diving courses through the Padi
training centers, including enriched air diving which lets
you stay underwater longer. You can also learn how to dive
in dry suits or explore caverns while diving.

Additionally, experienced divers who want to use their
skills for more than just personal enjoyment can take
further classes that will help them become rescue divers or
diving trainers. There are plenty of options available once
you take the first plunge and get your initial
certification.