Sydney PADI Open Water Diver Course — 2.5 Days

Trip highlights

• PADI Open Water certification (lifetime)
• Online theory + confined water pool + 4 open water dives
• Cert before GBR = way better reef experience
• All gear included

Itinerary at a glance

1. 1

   Day 1 · Theory + pool

   Online theory complete pre-arrival, in-person confined water pool training, dive theory class.

2. 2

   Day 2 · Open water dives 1+2

   Sydney dive site (Bare Island, Camp Cove or similar), 2 open water dives with instructor.

3. 3

   Day 3 · Open water dives 3+4

   Final 2 open water dives, certification paperwork, digital cert issued.

Common questions about this trip

• Why get certified in Sydney instead of Cairns?

  Two reasons — it's $200-300 cheaper to do the cert in Sydney, AND once you're certified, you can do REAL certified dives on the GBR (instead of intro dives where an instructor holds your hand). Massive value upgrade for the reef days.

• Can I do this if I can't swim well?

  You need to swim 200m unassisted and tread water for 10 mins. That's roughly 8 laps of a 25m pool. If you're not there yet, do a few practice sessions before the course.

• No prior experience — am I in the deep end (literally)?

  Nope. PADI Open Water is designed for total beginners. Half the class hasn't snorkelled before. Theory first (online, at your pace), then confined-water pool, THEN you go to the open water. Each step builds.

• Will I need a dive medical?

  Maybe — depends on your health history. The PRO DIVE intake form flags things (asthma, ear issues, sinus problems, heart conditions, recent surgery, pregnancy). If yes, $50-100 for a dive medical at a participating GP. Better to do it BEFORE booking.

• Cert is internationally recognised?

  Yes — PADI Open Water Diver is the global standard. Dive anywhere in the world with it: Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, Egypt, Philippines. Lifetime cert, doesn't expire.

• What to bring?

  Just swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and lunch. All scuba + snorkel gear is included. Wetsuit, fins, mask, BCD, regulator, weights — all PRO DIVE's.

• What can I do after I'm certified?

  Join boat dives + shore dives with PRO DIVE in Sydney, or any dive operator globally. Plus you can take further courses (Advanced, Rescue, Divemaster). Cert lasts forever; refresher dive recommended if you don't dive for a year.

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