Question

How do I choose a scuba certification instructor?

Answer 1

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.

Answer 2

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.

Answer 3

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.

Answer 4

Paid online then a local dive shop for open water

Comments

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?

Answer 5

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.