Frequent aquatic questions
Do I need any prior experience?
Nope – all you need is enthusiasm and the ability to swim! Our Open Water Diver course starts from zero, teaching you scuba basics in three easy steps (e-learning, pool, ocean). If you’re already certified with another agency, just send us your card and we’ll get you on the next Advanced or specialty program.
What’s the minimum age to dive?
You can start at age 10 to become a Junior Open Water Diver (depending on maturity level) and upgrade to full Open Water at 15. For advanced or specialty courses, the minimum age is 12—or 15 for deeper dives like the “Deep” specialty in the Advanced program.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You don’t have to be an Olympic athlete, but you must demonstrate basic water skills: surface-swim 200m (or snorkel-swim 300m) and tread water or float for 10 minutes. This is ultimately for your safety and comfortability during the difference phases of the Open Water course!
Should I choose PADI or SDI?
Both PADI and SDI are internationally recognized scuba certification agencies that follow established safety and training standards.
At Finn’s Up Dive School, we focus on personalized, small-group training with high safety standards and real-world dive experience. No matter which agency you choose, your certification will be globally recognized and allow you to dive anywhere in the world.
If you’re unsure which path is best for you, we’re happy to explain the differences and help you choose the option that fits your goals, schedule, and learning style.
Where do the pool and ocean sessions take place?
Confined Water Options (Naugatuck YMCA Pool)
Saturdays 9:30am - 3:00pm
Sundays 8:30am - 12:30pm
Weekdays (Upon Request)
Open Water Weekend (May - November)
Stonington, CT, -Saturday 7:00am - 11:00am
Fort Wetherill, RI - Sundays 8:00am - 1:00pm
If you’d rather finish in a tropical location, ask about our Referral Program*
What if I have medical or fitness concerns?
Before we dive in—literally—you’ll complete a Diver Medical Questionnaire. Depending on your answers, a physician’s approval may be required before participating. If you have any existing medical conditions or fitness concerns, consulting your doctor before enrolling is always recommended.
What gear do I need to bring?
You need your own personal dive mask, snorkel and dive boots. We will provide everything else (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, tanks, weights).
We offer a student gear package which includes a mask, snorkel, boots, and fins that are yours to keep after certification. Contact us for more details.
How long does the full course take?
Most students complete the course over four training days during open water season.
You’ll begin with eLearning at your own pace, followed by a classroom session with Mike. Next, we’ll schedule your confined water weekend, which includes two 4-hour pool sessions to build and refine your skills.
Finally, you’ll complete your open water weekend, which includes two training dives on Saturday in Stonington, CT and two training dives on Sunday in Fort Wetherill, RI. Open water dives run from May through November, weather permitting.
Once you successfully complete your final performance requirements, you’ll walk off the beach as a certified diver (assuming all other course standards have been met).
Do I need dive insurance?
While it isn’t strictly mandated by PADI or SDI, we strongly recommend—and for some specialty or referral programs require—that you carry dive-accident insurance. Plans through organizations like DAN cover emergency evacuation, hyperbaric treatment and lost or damaged gear. A typical one-year policy is under $100 and can be purchased online in minutes.
What’s the water like in New England?
Expect summer temps of 60–70 °F in a 7 mm wetsuit (we supply). Visibility ranges from 3–12 ft depending on ocean conditions.
Spring and Fall temperatures can drop as low as 50 degrees during our dive season. When the temperatures drop lower than this, we end our dive season for the winter.
If you request a Lake Hydra trip instead, you can expect better visibility (around 10-20 feet) but sharper temperature changes with thermoclines (40 to 70 °F).
If you crave warmer water, our referral option lets you complete your pool sessions up here, but you’ll finish your open water dives in the destination of your choice!
How do I book?
Click “Book Now” in the top right corner if you’d like us to reach out and guide you through the process.
Or, if you’re ready to lock it in, purchase your course under “Courses” and then reserve your dates under “Calendar.”
Once you complete the intake form, we’ll be in touch shortly to confirm the details.
Do you offer a military or student discount?
As a veteran myself, I’m proud to support those who’ve served. Active-duty military, veterans, reservists and first responders receive 10% off all courses—just reach out with proof of service for your discount code.
I also know how hard it is to balance life with school. Therefore we also provide a 10% student discount to all currently enrolled university students.
(These discounts do not stack).
what is your refund policy?
At Finn’s Up Dive School, we know plans can change—and we’ll always do our best to accommodate you. Please note that the $230 e-learning fee is non-refundable, as it covers the immediate purchase and licensing of your official PADI or SDI digital course materials.