We look at the Most Popular Google Searches Related to Scuba certification, the 5 frequently asked questions on Google about the Open water scuba diving course.
1. Is Scuba Diving Safe is the Most Popular Google Search related to Scuba certification?
Safety is a natural fear when we talk about Scuba diving. Below, we answer the most popular Google searches related to scuba certification
Yes, Scuba Diving is safe. Which is why we have a regulated Industry that requires us to take the Open Water Scuba Diver course. Nowadays, you cannot go into a dive shop without showing proof that you are an open water diver certified.
Being open water diver certified means you went through the Scuba Diving Industry training. You read the manual, took the quizzes, took the final exam, went through your Confined Open water dives, and were taught to independently set up your Scuba Dive Equipment, do your BWRAF, and not skip it.
They trust you won’t panic and know how to clear water out of your mask or your regulator all on your own. They have faith in you that you know what to do, so you will never run out of air. You know what to do when things that cannot be controlled, like running out of air, will be handled calmly and responsibly. You have practiced emergency scenarios like alternate air source in a confined water environment, which is either a shallow shore or a deep swimming pool, safe enough to gain confidence for your open water training.
You are certified because you did the training to make Scuba Diving something we hold so dear, an Industry of responsible divers. More importantly, if you encounter a dive shop that skips a lot of Industry Standards you were taught, be responsible enough to walk out of there and find another dive shop.
2. What are the basic requirements to get started?
Age Requirements
- 10 years old and above for the Junior Open Water Diver certification.
- 15 years old and above for the regular Open Water Diver certification.
Health & Medical Clearance
- Must be medically fit for diving.
- Students complete a PADI Medical Questionnaire (click on link); if any condition is marked “yes,” a doctor’s approval is required before diving.
Swimming Skills
- Swim 200 meters (or 300 meters with mask, fins, and snorkel) nonstop using any stroke.
- Float or tread water for 10 minutes without aids.
To enroll in the PADI Open Water Diver course, students must meet certain age, health, and swimming requirements. The minimum age is 10 years old for the Junior Open Water Diver certification and 15 years old for the regular Open Water Diver certification. Students must also be medically fit for diving and complete a PADI Medical Questionnaire; if any condition is marked “yes,” a doctor’s approval is required before participating. Additionally, students must demonstrate basic swimming skills by swimming 200 meters (or 300 meters with a mask, fins, and snorkel) nonstop using any stroke and must be able to float or tread water for 10 minutes without aids.
3. How Long Does it take to get certified
While it’s possible to complete the PADI Open Water Diver certification over a weekend, an ideal timeframe is 6 to 10 days to ensure better knowledge retention and skill development.
A well-structured schedule could include two days dedicated to knowledge development (eLearning or classroom sessions), followed by one day for testing, all done at home. For practical training, students can spend three days on skills training at a resort, or opt to complete one day in a pool in the city before heading to open water. This approach allows for a more comfortable learning pace, ensuring divers gain confidence and proficiency before certification.
PADI eLearning makes it easy to fit scuba lessons into a busy schedule. Learn about scuba diving principles and terminology whenever, wherever it’s convenient for you.
It’s your course on your time. Study offline, or online using a computer or mobile device. Connect with your instructor whenever you have a question.
4. How deep can I go with an Open water scuba diver certificate?
A PADI Open Water Diver is certified to dive independently with a buddy (without a professional guide) to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) in conditions similar to their training. This depth limit is set for safety reasons, as deeper dives introduce additional risks such as increased air consumption, nitrogen absorption, and potential effects like nitrogen narcosis.
Why Is the Limit 18 Meters (60 Feet)?
- Safe Air Supply Management – At deeper depths, air consumption increases due to greater pressure, meaning divers use their tanks more quickly. Staying within 18 meters allows ample time to ascend safely if needed.
- Reduced Risk of Nitrogen Narcosis – While narcosis typically becomes a concern beyond 30 meters (100 feet), some divers may experience mild effects at shallower depths. Limiting Open Water divers to 18 meters minimizes this risk.
- Sufficient Natural Light & Visibility – Shallower depths generally offer better visibility and more natural light, making navigation and communication easier.
- Longer Bottom Times – At 18 meters, divers can stay underwater longer without hitting no-decompression limits too quickly, making dives more enjoyable.
- Ideal for Marine Life & Coral Reefs – Many of the most vibrant reefs, colorful fish, and marine life are found above 18 meters, so there’s no urgent need to go deeper for incredible underwater experiences.
What If You Want to Dive Deeper?
If you want to explore beyond 18 meters, the next step is the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course, which qualifies divers to go up to 30 meters (100 feet). For even deeper dives, the PADI Deep Diver specialty extends the depth limit to 40 meters (130 feet), which is the maximum for recreational diving.
5. How much is it?
For PHP 24,000 per student (minimum of 4 students), this package includes:
✅ PADI eLearning – Complete the theory portion online at your own pace
✅ Pool Training – Conducted in Makati, Parañaque, or San Juan for skill development in a controlled environment
✅ 4 Open Water Training Dives – Gain real-world experience in the ocean
✅ Full Equipment Rental – No need to purchase gear; everything is provided
✅ Overnight Resort Stay – Comfortable accommodation included
✅ All Meals Covered – Enjoy hassle-free dining throughout your training
This all-inclusive package ensures a comprehensive, fun, and safe learning experience as you earn your PADI Open Water Diver certification.
