This is often one of the first things that is said in any conversation related to diving (or going on holiday to exotic locations associated with beautiful underwater destinations). But what the questioner usually means is “Do you have a recreational scuba diving qualification?” The distinction is important. PADI is a diver training organisation. A recreational scuba diving qualification is available from many different diver training organisations, and is a vitally important first step on the ladder for anyone wishing to pursue scuba diving as a new hobby.
Credit to PADI; they certainly paved the way for the training , development, and continuing education of recreational scuba divers since the 1960s.. The PADI that most people refer to is the Open Water course. It is this course where many people take their first breaths underwater, and learn how to safely dive as a recreational scuba diver. After five pool dives and four open water dives, all under the supervision of a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, a lifetime of recreational scuba diving enjoyment awaits.
But there are other options. Even though I’m a PADI Professional and did all of my training under the PADI umbrella, many of my dive buddies are instructors with, or have trained with, different organisations, including:
- NAUI
- BSAC
- SSI
- CMAS
- SDI / TDI
And many more.
PADI is the largest diver training organisation in the world, and is the most globally recognised brand. Even so, when you are considering which scuba training provider to use, feel free to look around at what options are available. I’m confident that most people will come to a similar conclusion as I did, and start their journey with the PADI Open Water course, but even if you choose a different provider, just make sure that you are getting a recreational scuba diving qualification that allows you to enjoy diving safely.
Great article – I never understood this