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Ready to Dive In? Start Your PADI Open Water Diver Course Today

Become a Certified Diver and Explore New Depths

5
Pool Session
4
Scuba Dive
5
Theory Review
Zero
Skill Level Required
R5765
Low Season Price
Inc.
All Gear & 5 Nights
PADI Open Water Diver

Welcome to Coral Divers, your gateway to an underwater adventure like no other. Nestled in the stunning iSimangaliso Wetland Park, our PADI 5-Star Resort offers the perfect setting for both newcomers and seasoned divers.

Embark on your journey with the PADI Open Water Diver course, where you’ll gain essential diving skills under the direction of our professional PADI dive instructors.

Whether you aim to discover the vivid beauty of coral reefs or desire a tranquil retreat, our top-tier facilities and hospitable staff guarantee an unforgettable diving adventure. Dive in with us and discover the wonders beneath the waves!

your

gateway to scuba

What is the PADI Open Water Diver Certification?

The PADI Open Water Diver certification is your gateway to the underwater world, offering a globally recognized qualification that allows you to dive up to 18 metres. PADI is renowned for setting high standards in dive training, ensuring safety and enjoyment for divers worldwide.

By obtaining this certification, you join a community of divers who are welcomed at dive sites and shops around the globe. But why get certified? The PADI Open Water Diver course equips you with essential skills and knowledge, boosting your confidence and competence underwater. It opens the door to incredible experiences, from exploring vibrant coral reefs to swimming alongside fascinating marine life.

Plus, being certified enhances your travel adventures, as you can dive independently with a buddy, making your trips even more exciting and enriching. At Coral Divers, we are committed to making this journey safe, educational, and incredibly thrilling for you!

simple

steps to start

The PADI Open Water Diver Course Outline

The PADI Open Water Diver training is divided into three phases. Each module plays a crucial role in equipping you with the skills and confidence to become a certified diver. The PADI Open Water Diver course outline is as follows:

Phase 1: Knowledge Development

  • The Knowledge Development module provides essential principles and safety information for diving. You can complete it at our centre or via eLearning from the comfort of your home.
  • This module is divided into five sections, each involving the study of the PADI Open Water Manual and accompanying video. Throughout your studies, you’ll complete small quizzes and Knowledge Reviews to reinforce your learning and ensure information retention.
  • Additionally, you’ll discuss these Knowledge Reviews with your instructor to clarify any uncertainties and solidify your understanding. To conclude this module, you’ll take a final quiz and two multiple-choice exams – one covering theory and the other focusing on the Recreational Dive Planner.

Phase 2: Confined Water Dives

  • The Confined Water Dives module is where the fun really starts! You’ll participate in practical skill sessions in a pool under the direct supervision of your PADI-certified instructor. This module includes five pool sessions designed to teach and practise essential diving skills.
  • In addition to mastering basic and advanced diving techniques, you’ll also complete a 10-minute float and a 200-metre swim. We offer a heated pool during the winter months to ensure a comfortable training experience, regardless of the weather.

Phase 3: Open Water Dives

  • The final module, Open Water Dives, takes place in the open sea and is where you complete your diver training. You will undertake four Open Water Dives, again under the direct supervision of your instructor. These dives will reinforce the skills learned in the pool and give you the opportunity to practise them in a real-world setting.
  • During these dives, you’ll swim over stunning reefs and experience the vibrant marine life of Sodwana Bay. By the end of this module, you’ll have the confidence and skills needed to explore the underwater world independently, marking a significant milestone in your diving journey. You will also earn your PADI Open Water licence upon completion of these dives.

Course Itinerary Example

The Open Water Course is designed to be both comprehensive and enjoyable, and we want to make sure every moment of your learning journey is as enriching as possible. Here’s a detailed 4-day itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect during your course at Coral Divers.

Morning
We start the day with a warm welcome and a comprehensive course overview to give you a clear understanding of what lies ahead. You’ll receive your course materials and undergo equipment fitting to ensure everything is perfectly tailored for your comfort. Then, we dive into Knowledge Review Sessions, laying out the foundational principles of diving.

Afternoon
In the afternoon, you will head to the pool for Confined Water Dive sessions. Here, you will learn essential diving skills and techniques under the guidance of your instructor.

Morning
Your second day begins with Knowledge Review Sessions, where you’ll delve deeper into diving principles and safety procedures. Afterwards, you’ll complete the final quizzes and multiple-choice exams, covering theory and the Recreational Dive Planner. These assessments ensure a solid grasp of the material, preparing you for practical dive sessions.

Afternoon
The afternoon shifts to the pool for Confined Water Dive Sessions. Under the guidance of your instructor, you’ll practise basic diving skills and techniques, reinforcing your knowledge. You’ll do skills like buoyancy control, underwater navigation, and emergency ascent skills. Additionally, you’ll complete a 10-minute float and a 200-metre swim assessment, further building your stamina and confidence.

Morning
On the third day, we transition to the ocean for your first two Open Water Dives. These dives offer hands-on experience in the ocean and a chance to apply the skills learned in confined water. You’ll practise setting up your gear and conducting pre-dive safety checks with your dive buddy, all under the diligent supervision of your instructor.

Afternoon
If needed, we’ll regroup for a Knowledge Review session to reflect on the day’s dives, discuss any challenges, and continue reinforcing vital diving theory. This session includes reviewing dive logs, discussing marine life encountered, and preparing for the final two Open Water Dives. You will also be writing your final exam.

Morning
The fourth and final day is when you’ll complete your last two Open Water dives. These dives are a culmination of all you’ve learned and practised throughout the course, giving you the opportunity to showcase your newfound diving skills. You’ll explore Sodwana Bay’s magnificent reefs and marine life while demonstrating proficiency in essential dive techniques.

Afternoon
After returning from your final dives, we’ll complete any necessary paperwork and celebrate your achievements with a certification ceremony. You will leave Coral Divers as a certified PADI Open Water Diver, ready to continue your diving journey with confidence and skill.

Notes

The itinerary may be subject to change based on weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.

Prerequisites

For New Divers

PADI Open Water Diver Requirements

To start your journey as a PADI Open Water Diver, you need to meet a few basic requirements. Here is what you need to know before you take this course:

Age Requirements

  • Participants must be at least 10 years old. Divers younger than 15 years will be certified as Junior PADI Open Water Diver.
  • Those aged 10-11 years will be limited to 12m and must dive with a PADI professional. From 12-14 years, you are allowed to dive up to 18m but must dive with a parent/guardian.
  • They will automatically become adult PADI Open Water Divers at 15 and then be able to dive to 18m with any adult certified diver.

Medical Fitness

  • A ‘fit to dive’ medical certificate is required if you answer “yes” to any questions on the PADI Medical Form. This certificate, signed by a doctor within the last 12 months, ensures your health and safety during dives.

Parental Consent

  • For those under 18, a parent or guardian must complete and sign the necessary paperwork.

What’s Included and Excluded in the PADI Open Water Diver Program?

Knowing what’s included and excluded in the PADI Open Water Diver Program can help you plan ahead. Here’s what you can expect to be included in your course package:

What’s Included

  • Full Gear Hire: All necessary scuba equipment is included.
  • Beach Shuttle: Transportation to and from the beach for diving sessions.
  • Online PADI Open Water Diver ‘eManual’: Access all course materials online.
  • 4 Qualifying Dives in Sodwana Bay: Enjoy diving in one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
  • Upgrade Options: Upgrade to a Standard Cabin or Ensuite Cabin (request upgrade price during booking).
  • PADI Open Water Diver Certification: Earn your official certification upon completion of the course.
  • 5 Nights’ Free Accommodation in Safari Tents: Stay in our comfortable Safari Tents (bring your own bedding or request bedding). You can also upgrade to other accommodation options at an additional cost.

What’s Excluded

  • iSimangaliso Park Gate Entry Fee: A daily fee is required to enter this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Meals and Drinks: You have the flexibility to bring your own food or make use of our fully licensed bar and restaurant at an additional cost.
  • Daily KZN Wildlife Fee: A small daily fee contributing to the preservation of KwaZulu-Natal’s wildlife. These fees can be purchased at your local post office or paid upon arrival at our reception.

Elevate

Your Underwater Skills

Want to Further Your Diving Journey?

Our journey doesn’t stop at the basics! For those eager to elevate their diving adventures, the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course is the perfect next step. This course hones your skills through five speciality dives, including deep diving and underwater navigation, offering a richer, more diverse underwater experience.

Additionally, Specialty Diver Courses, such as Deep Diver and Enriched Air Diver, allow you to tailor your learning to your interests. Each course is designed to expand your knowledge and capabilities, making every dive safer and more exciting. Let’s dive deeper and discover all the specialised opportunities waiting for you!

Diver

Testimonials

What Our Divers Say

Listen to what our PADI Open Water Divers have to say about their experiences with Coral Divers. From learning essential skills to gaining confidence underwater, these testimonials highlight the transformative impact of the course.

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Your

Journey Starts Here

Why Choose Coral Divers for Your PADI Open Water Diver Course?

Choosing Coral Divers means opting for a premier diving experience within the stunning iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and here’s why we’re a convenient choice:

Exclusive Location

As the only dive resort within the park, we offer unmatched access to the pristine waters and vibrant marine life of Sodwana Bay.

Comprehensive Packages

From full gear hire to flexible accommodation options, we provide everything you need to focus on your diving adventure.

Experienced Instructors

Our team of PADI-certified instructors is dedicated to ensuring your safety and comfort, personalising learning to fit your pace.

All-Inclusive

Once you stop your car, you won’t need to start it again since our resort offers everything you need for an unforgettable diving experience. From accommodation and meals to transportation to the beach and equipment, we have you covered.

Community and Camaraderie

At Coral Divers, you’re not just a guest—you’re part of a welcoming diving community. Our dive centre fosters strong camaraderie among divers of all skill levels, creating a supportive environment where you can share experiences and build lasting friendships.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions You May Have

PADI Open Water Diver certification lasts a lifetime. However, it’s recommended that divers who haven’t been active for a while take a refresher course to brush up on their skills and knowledge.

The PADI Open Water Diver certification depth limit is 18 metres/60 feet. It’s the ideal depth for exploring vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

The PADI Open Water Diver certification typically takes three to four days to complete, including theory lessons, pool sessions, and open water dives.

If you want a quicker introductory experience with a 12-metre depth limit, choose PADI Scuba Diver. For full certification with an 18-metre depth limit, opt for PADI Open Water Diver.

No, the PADI Open Water Diver course is designed to be enjoyable and accessible for anyone in good health. Our experienced instructors will guide you through each step, making sure you feel comfortable and confident throughout.

Yes, there are specific depth limits for young divers. For those aged 10-11 years, the maximum depth is limited to 12 metres, and they must dive with a PADI Professional. For divers aged 12-14 years, the depth limit increases to 18 metres/60 feet, and they must dive with a parent or guardian.