How long does it take to get scuba certified in Florida?

Short answer: about 8 to 12 hours of online study at your own pace, a short in-person orientation, and 3 days of in-water training. You have up to 12 months to finish, so you can go as fast or as slow as your schedule allows.

Step 1: eLearning at home (8 to 12 hours)

You start with the SDI Open Water eLearning course on your computer, tablet or phone. Most students take 8 to 12 hours to work through it, including the final exam. If you add Computer Nitrox, plan on about 3 to 5 more hours. There is no classroom schedule to work around: study in the evenings, on weekends, or all at once.

Step 2: In-person orientation

Next, you meet your instructor for a required orientation. You will go over any questions from your eLearning, get sized for your rental gear, and cover gear safety before you get wet.

Step 3: 3 days of in-water training

Your in-water training runs over 3 days: pool skills first, then open water training dives. You will have the same instructor from start to finish, in small classes of up to 6 students.

You have 12 months to finish

Life gets busy. You have 12 months to complete both the eLearning and your in-water training, so a hectic month will not cost you your course.

How much does it cost?

Semi-private SDI Open Water starts at $550, or $650 with Computer Nitrox. Private courses are $1,100, or $1,300 with Nitrox. eLearning, rental gear and your digital certification card are included. You will need your own scuba-quality mask, fins, snorkel and boots.

Who can take the course?

Adults 18 and up, and teens 15 and up with parental consent. Kids ages 10 to 14 can take Junior Open Water. Everyone completes a diver medical questionnaire before training.

See course options and enroll, or call us at (386) 663-8030.