Do I need to be able to swim to learn to scuba dive?
Of course you do!, but you don't have to be a competitive swimmer. You just have to have a comfortable swimming ability. You'll swim 4 just 200 yards in the pool (not timed), and you'll tread water or float for 10 minutes.

How early do I have to enroll in a class?
You need give yourself time to read the SCUBA textbook and do a little homework before the first class meeting, so you should enroll at least a few days in advance.

What equipment do I have to purchase?
We have all of the dive equipment available for you to use during the course. We really hope that you'll decide to buy some equipment from us (and we'll give you an extra-special price when you do), but we want you to learn a little about scuba diving before you start to invest in equipment. Not included would be your personal equipment i.e. mask, fins, snorkel and booties. Also you may want to invest in drysuit if you wanted to use one instead of a wetsuit for your certification dives (but in our opinion is not needed).

Why does the class take so long?
Our classes aren't too long, scuba can be taught effectively in a single weekend with either a 'home study' or online classes are the best way to teach scuba, and homework is an important part of our classes.

Who can learn to Scuba Dive?
Just about anyone who is in good physical condition and has a comfortable swimming ability can learn to scuba, but it's not for everybody. People who are very claustrophobic and people who are afraid of the water usually don't like scuba. Trying to learn to scuba dive is a terrible way to overcome a fear of the water! People as young as 10 years of age can be certified, but there's not a 'kids class' Youngsters have the same certification requirements as the grownups, both academically and physically.

Do I have to scuba dive in the lake?
You have to make 4 'open water' dives to complete the certification process. Most of our students finish the class at one of our local spring, quarry and a lake in South Carolina, but some choose to make their dives in tropical water, either on their own vacation as a referral, or on one of Underwater Adventure’s frequently scheduled fun and affordable trips.

Do I have to get a physical exam to learn to dive?
Not necessarily; you have to be in good health, which we'll evaluate by using our standard Medical Questionnaire. If you do have health issues, you'll have to obtain approval from your physician to participate in scuba training. Here's the form