At Dolphin Dive Center, we make learning to scuba dive exciting, confidence-building, and unforgettable. Our team of instructors and divemasters brings over 290 years of combined diving experience to the table — and we still get genuinely excited every time we introduce someone to the underwater world.
Our Open Water certification course is designed to guide you step by step, blending classroom learning, pool sessions, and open water dives so you feel prepared, supported, and successful from day one. You’ll learn at a pace that builds real confidence — with experienced pros by your side.
This certification is your first passport into a world that only about 5% of people ever experience. But more than that, it’s an invitation into our dive community. Scuba diving is a buddy sport by design — and learning together turns strangers into friends.
Minimum Requirements
- No prior scuba certification required
- Minimum age: 12
- Basic physical fitness
- No major medical conditions (that would restrict diving)
Completion Requirements
- Open Water checkout dives with your instructor
Our Certification Process
Step 1 – Class Registration
Your Open Water journey begins by registering for the course. We offer Open Water courses the first weekend of EVERY month. You can stop by Dolphin Dive Center or give us a call — we look forward to getting to know you and answering questions along the way.
Once you’re registered for class, you’ll receive access to your online learning materials. You’ll complete this self-paced digital coursework before your classroom and pool sessions, so you arrive feeling prepared and confident.
Step 2 – Classroom & Pool Sessions
You’ll spend two days learning alongside your instructor, beginning each day at Dolphin Dive Center for classroom sessions before heading to the pool for hands-on skills practice.
This is where concepts start to click and confidence really builds. You’ll learn how to assemble your scuba equipment, practice essential skills in a controlled environment, and receive clear guidance from instructors who are right there with you every step of the way.
Step 3 – Open Water Checkout Dives
The final step of your certification brings everything together in an open water setting. You’ll review the skills you practiced in the pool and complete your checkout dives with your instructor by your side.
These dives are typically held the third weekend of each month, either at Lake Jocassee, SC or Vortex Springs, FL, depending on the time of year. This is where training turns into real-world experience — and where many students truly fall in love with diving.
Cost
The cost for Open Water certification is three payments of $495. This price includes everything you need to complete your certification:
- Lifetime access to digital Open Water learning materials
- Your own personal dive gear: mask, fins, snorkel, full wetsuit, and gear bag
- Instructor-led classroom sessions
- Hands-on pool training with your instructor
- Rental equipment: dive computer, buoyancy compensator, and regulator
- Open Water checkout dives, including:
- Two-night accommodation at Vortex Spring
- Tank, weights, and air fees for up to 8 dives
*Note: Food and transportation are not included with the Open Water certification trip.
Ready to get started — or just have a few questions?
Give us a call to register or to talk through any questions you may have. Our team is happy to answer any questions and help you decide if Open Water certification with Dolphin Dive Center is the right fit for you. Whether you’re feeling excited, curious, or a little nervous, you’re always welcome here.
📞 Dolphin Dive Center (706) 548-3483