Open water diver course
Here’s how to become a Certified SCUBA Diver for life!
Become a certified diver in four phases
- Gear Fitting - Online eLearning - 2 Pool Sessions - 2 Ocean Sessions -
PHASE 0
Gear Fitting &
Orientation
Every diver starts here. During your personalized gear fitting and orientation, we'll discuss your goals, fit you for your personal scuba equipment, answer your questions, and walk you through what to expect before your first pool session.
$0 complimentary session
PHASE 1
Online
E-lEarning
Start your dive education with self-paced online eLearning from home. You’ll then join us for a classroom session the same day as your first pool dive where we’ll discuss dive theory, equipment basics, safety tips, and answer any questions.
$230 before bundle discount
PHASE 2
Confined Water
(Pool dives)
Your first in-water experience happens in a warm, comfortable pool at the YMCA! Across two fun-filled days (4 hours each), you’ll build confidence as you master core scuba skills and complete all required training in a calm, low-stress setting.
$299 before bundle discount
PHASE 3
Open Water
(Ocean dives)
The grand finale, your Open Water Weekend! Either complete your final four ocean dives right here in New England with Finn’s Up, or choose the referral program and finish during your next getaway with a dive shop at your travel destination!
$299 before bundle discount
Become a certified diver in four simple phases!
1. Gear Fitting & Orientation
Begin your scuba journey with a personalized gear fitting and course orientation. We'll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and ensure every piece of equipment fits comfortably before your first pool session.
2. Online eLearning
Complete your interactive eLearning at your own pace from the comfort of home. This self-paced course builds the knowledge you'll need before entering the classroom and pool.
3. Classroom & Confined Water Training
Start the day with an in-person classroom review to reinforce key concepts and answer any remaining questions. Then, we’ll head into the pool at the Naugatuck YMCA for two guided training sessions, where you'll learn and practice the essential scuba skills needed to become a safe, comfortable, and confident diver.
4. Open Water Certification
Put everything together during Open Water Weekend by completing your four required certification ocean dives! You can also choose our referral program and complete your certification while on vacation with a participating SDI or PADI dive center.
Want to start local and finish in paradise? Ask about our referral program!
Course Prerequisites
Minimum Age 10
(10–14 year-olds earn a Junior Open Water Diver referral; full Open Water Diver at age 15)Complete a Swim Test
(Must be able to swim 200 yards unassisted, any stroke. Must be able to tread water unassisted for 10 minutes, head above water)
Complete Finn’s Up Paperwork
Gear Requirements
Personal Gear: Every student needs their own dive mask, snorkel, and dive boots, as these items are highly personal for fit and comfort. During your Gear Fitting & Orientation, you'll have the opportunity to try on demo gear and find the equipment that's right for you.
Unlike most dive shops, we don't require you to purchase fins before class. We prefer to evaluate your buoyancy and kicking style in the pool first, then recommend the best fins for your diving style. Students receive 10% off any personal gear purchased through Finn's Up.
All other scuba equipment is provided for your course.
Course Timeline
You have up to 12 months from starting your Open Water Diver eLearning to complete both the theory and water-skills portions of the course. After certification, your card is good for life and internationally recognized!
Reserve your spot today—your next dive adventure awaits!
start local, finish in paradise
the scuba referral program
Want to simply
test the waters?
Ever wondered what it feels like to breathe underwater? The PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience gives you a safe, exciting way to find out—no prior experience needed. With a certified instructor by your side, you’ll gear up, learn a few key skills, and take your very first breath beneath the surface.
It’s not a full certification course—it’s your first step into an entirely new world. Whether you’re chasing adventure, checking scuba off your bucket list, or just curious about what lies below, this experience might just spark your next obsession.
Want to take your time?
Pick the Modules You’re Ready For.
Try out Modular Course Hub, where you can purchase individual components of each course! Start small, finish when you’re ready!