How do I choose a scuba certification instructor?

+3 votes
asked Jan 27, 2017 in Scuba Diving by nudibranch (40 points)

5 Answers

+1 vote
answered Feb 17, 2017 by Deepbeastbeneath (100 points)
Go by a local dive shop, if you have one, and ask around about what experience you want. If you are not comfortable with large crowds you can typically book private sessions in order to ease any anxiety. If you do not have a local dive shop then chose where you want to have your open water sessions take place and start looking around there. After you check what diving operations are available just call around and explain what it is you are looking to accomplish and they can accommodate you.
+1 vote
answered Apr 26, 2017 by Pablo (1,108 points)
Go by the local dive shop and talk to them. Be very upfront about your concerns and ask for advice. Ask your friends, especially the ones that dive a lot. Go online and read dive clubs newsletters, diveshop newsletters. It sounds like you want to find someone who will be an excellent match. It will be easy to find someone. If you are claustrophobic, afraid, etc. be honest. While the internet is a fantastic resource, there is nothing like face to face and looking someone in the eye.
+1 vote
answered Jan 23, 2018 by richardehyman (2,630 points)
Just like anything, do your research, including asking around. Get referred. Ask the instructor for some references. Have them tell you about their approach, their style, the class. How big will the class be? Where will it be held,e.g. classroom, pool, open water, etc.
0 votes
answered Feb 16, 2017 by traxarnold (25 points)
Paid online then a local dive shop for open water
commented Feb 17, 2017 by nudibranch (40 points)
What criteria did you use to choose the instructor? Were there certain qualifications you wanted them to have? Also, you said you paid online - Was it the dive shop's website, or is there a good network that connects you with local shops?
0 votes
answered Apr 10, 2017 by George1224 (5,147 points)
Do some research, ask for references. If they are good they will be happy to give them. Of course someone that had a really hard time in skills portion may give a bad review when the instructor was really good. We pride ourselves in taking as much time and patience as is required for someone to master the skills. It can be a matter of life and death. We like the life part much better.
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