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 (Junior Open Water Diver) and upgrade to full Open Water at 15. For any of our advanced or specialty courses, the minimum age is 12, or 15 for deeper dives like “Deep” 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 200 m (or snorkel-swim 300 m) 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!
Where do the pool and ocean sessions take place?
Pool (Confined Water):
Naugatuck YMCA, Sundays 8 AM–12 PMOpen Water Weekend:
Stonington, CT, -Saturday 7am - 11am
Fort Wetherill, RI - Sundays 8am - 12pmLake Hydra Weekends:
Upon special request only
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 fill out a Diver Medical Questionnaire. If you answer “yes” to any question, you’ll need physician sign-off. We’re happy to guide you through any paperwork and help you find a physician familiar with dive medicine.
What gear do I need to bring?
You need your own personal dive mask and dive booties. We will provide everything else (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, tanks, weights). If you want gear recommendations, book a free dive-gear consult with Mike.
How long does the full course take?
Typically 3–4 weeks. You’ll complete the e-learning on your own schedule, followed by an online virtual classroom session with Mike. From there we’ll book two 3-hour pool sessions to begin working on your skills. Lastly, you’ll complete open water weekend which includes two Saturday dives in Stonington CT and two Sunday dives in Fort Wetherill, RI.
Once you complete the final performance requirement for the open water dives, you’ll walk onto the beach as a certified diver (assuming all other requirements have been met).
Do I need dive insurance?
While it isn’t strictly mandated by PADI, 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 runs around $65–$75 and can be purchased online in minutes. If you’d like, we can walk you through signing up so you’re fully covered from day one.
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 5–12 ft depending on ocean conditions.
If you request a Lake Hydra trip instead, you can expect better visibility (around 10-20 feet) but sharper temperature changes with the thermocline (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 tropics.
How do I book?
Start by clicking on “courses” in the top right of this website. You can then pick your course & session dates, and fill out the intake form. We’ll send your e-learning code the same day, and then get you on the schedule. Have questions before you commit? Click “Let’s Chat” or call/text Mike at (203) 512-9091.
Do you offer a military discount?
As a veteran myself, I’m proud to support those who’ve served. Active-duty military and veterans receive 10% off all courses—just reach out with proof of service for your discount code.
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 digital course materials.