Choosing a Scuba Diving Instructor

Choosing a Scuba Diving Instructor

There are two major SCUBA training associations. PADI (Professional Association of Dive Instructors) and SSI (SCUBA Schools International). Both of these have international presences, and any instructor or dive master you choose to go with should be able to show you their instructor certification card. You want it to be from one of these organizations, where there is control of standards and quality.ALWAYS ask to see credentials. Don't accept advice or instruction from anyone who "doesn't have them with me" or who "has been diving so long I don't need them." Other good questions to ask of your instructor and the resort are: are diving accidents covered by the resort's insurance? (probably not, but it's good to know in advance) Is the instructor an independent contractor? Who does he work with? Is he recognized by PADI or SSI? What's the dive plan? Is there a secondary site/plan if conditions aren't good at the first? What kind of emergency/medical supplies are there on the boat? And where is the nearest chamber, if you should need it? And how will you get to it? If the answers to these questions are vague, don't go.

Trust your instincts. If it doesn't feel right, it's not. Don't be talked into "trying it this once" if your internal voice is screaming "there's something wrong here!"

The best approach is to do your homework. Before you go, visit PADI.com and look for PADI dive centers. They're all over the world, and you'll be able to find an instructor, dive master or charter through this site. Contact them directly and set up your dives ahead of time. You can also contact PADI and check on a dive operation/instructor if you have specifics. They're a great resource - use them!