Open Water Diver

Become a Certified Open Water Diver

Your Scuba Adventure Starts Right Here in Destin, FL! - Starting at $450 (plus tax) | Call for Private or Custom Dates: (850) 837-2822

Become an Open Water Diver and unlock the ultimate passport to underwater exploration! This entry-level scuba certification is your ticket to unforgettable aquatic adventures — and it’s packed with endless possibilities.

Limited Seats Available – Reserve Now!

Upcoming Class Schedule –

May 2025

May 21-24

June 2025

June 16-19

June 28-29 & July 5-6 (WEEKEND CLASS)

June 30-July 3

July 2025

July 21-24

August 2025

Aug 9-10 & Aug 16-17 (WEEKEND CLASS)

How It Works: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3!

Step 1: Complete the PADI eLearning

This portion of the course can be completed anywhere you have internet access and at your own pace. Sign up for your e-learning course here! Please note the online course is an additional fee paid directly to PADI - it is not included in our cost.

Step 2: Hands-On Pool Training (2 Days)

This is when you meet your instructor and the real fun begins. After a brief knowledge review and a walkthrough of equipment and equipment setup, it's off to the pool where you will learn your basic scuba skills. These sessions will allow you to practice what you have learned online and prepare you for a smooth transition into the open water world.

Step 3: Open Water Dives (2 Days)

When you have completed your pool training you will be ready for your four open water certification dives. Here, you will simply repeat the skills you learned during your pool training under the supervision of your instructor in open water (the Gulf or freshwater springs). Upon successful completion of these four dives, you will be a certified Open Water Diver.

Please note that there will be a $25 entrance fee at Vortex Springs. 

What's Included?

Included in the cost of the course ($450 + tax) are the pool training sessions, four open water dives, and all scuba equipment needed for your training - except mask, snorkel and fins.

Required Materials and Equipment

The following items are required to begin the Open Water course:

1. Completed PADI Open Water Diver e-learning
2. Reviewed Diver Medical Form - any "YES" answers will require a physician signature before participation in the course 
3. Mask, snorkel, fins (some fins will require booties)

Note: Your snorkeling kit should be properly sized for comfort, fit and safety. Our experienced and friendly staff will be happy to assist you with your selection to make certain that your equipment is correctly fitted to you.

Please note:

• Students must be at least 10 years of age
• All students are required to be comfortable in the water and know how to swim
• Courses are nonrefundable but may be rescheduled 
• Minimum course size is 4 students