Who should take this course?
If you’ve ever looked at the water and thought, “Yeah… I want to be down there,” this is where it starts.
The PADI Open Water Diver course is your entry point into the underwater world. This is the certification that allows you to dive anywhere in the world, rent gear, join dive trips, and stop being the person on the boat asking, “So how deep is that?”
This course is for you if:
- You want to learn to scuba dive the right way, with a calm, experienced instructor
- You like structure, but not pressure
- You want real skills, not rushed checkboxes
- You plan to dive locally, travel, or both
You must be at least 10 years old, comfortable in the water, and in reasonable physical health. No prior scuba experience is required.
What will you learn?
The PADI Open Water Diver course is built in three phases. Each phase builds confidence, skill, and comfort in the water.
- Knowledge Development
Learn how scuba works, why we do what we do, and how to dive safely. Most students choose eLearning, but classroom instruction is also available if you prefer it. - Confined Water Training
This is where the magic happens. You’ll learn and practice core scuba skills in a pool environment until they feel controlled, repeatable, and comfortable. - Open Water Checkout Dives
This is where everything comes together during real dives in open water.
Important note about course structure:
This booking covers Knowledge Development and Confined Water training only. Open Water checkout dives are scheduled separately.
Many students choose to complete their checkout dives somewhere warmer, clearer, and a little more colorful (underwater, at least) than Maryland. This is called a referral, and it is completely normal and very common.
Whether you want to do your checkout dives locally or finish them on a tropical vacation, Dive With Frank will help you set it up correctly. Either way, you’ll receive the same high-quality training and earn the same certification.
Separating training this way gives you flexibility, avoids rushing dives, and lets you finish your certification in the environment that makes the most sense for you.
How can you start learning now?
Once we select a schedule and location, you’ll receive access to the PADI Open Water learning materials. Most students choose eLearning, but classroom instruction is available if that’s your preference.
What scuba gear will you use?
During the course, you’ll learn to use standard recreational scuba equipment, including:
- Mask, snorkel, and fins
- Regulator
- Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
- Gauges and tank
Students are expected to bring their own mask, snorkel, fins, and boots. All other required equipment is provided for training.
How long will it take?
This portion of the Open Water course includes:
- Five classroom and confined water sessions
Open Water checkout dives are completed separately and typically involve:
- Four open water dives
- Completed over a weekend or while traveling
Sign Up Today
This course is taught privately or in small groups at a pace that prioritizes comfort, skill, and confidence.
If you’re ready to start learning to scuba dive, this is where your journey begins.