Which scuba diving certification is the best, PADI or SSI?
So, I’m doing scuba diving training this summer, and I was looking at different places where I can go to get certified, and there are two locations that I like….one is PADI and one is SSI. The SSI one is a lot cheaper, seeing that you do the classroom portion online and it’s free to do it online (they still cover everything in the actual classroom when you go for you classes, but they just skim over it since you already know the info from the online course…so it’ll be more like a refresher), and the PADI one is $199, and even still the company will make you do the classroom portion. With the PADI center, training is $420 or $250, depending on if you buy your scuba gear from them or not, and I think they charge a minimum of $330 for the equipment….the other one is like $200 …and I can buy my scuba gear from wherever I want…but the true question…is it better to get PADI certified and pay more money, or is SSI and PADI certification the same? Like will other divers look down at me if I’m SSI or anything? thanks!
I’m 16 btw….if that helps at all.
PADI also offers it’s course online. I’m not a fan of any online course, however.
Neither is really better than the other regards PADI or SSI. Both are recognized world wide. There are some differences in what each offers for courses though but it still doesn’t matter. If you took a SSI open water, you could do a PADI advanced later for example or vice versa. You don’t have to stick to a particular agency.
You should be able to find a PADI shop that offers the entire training, including use of gear on course for 200-250 bucks. That also includes your class, pool time, exams and your OW check out.
SSI is about the same.
You have to remember that dive shops are in competition with each other for your dollar so even within an agency, prices will differ from shop to shop. Shop around, find a place you feel comfortable with and train there. PADI , SSI , NAUI…whatever.
PADI also offers it’s course online. I’m not a fan of any online course, however.
Neither is really better than the other regards PADI or SSI. Both are recognized world wide. There are some differences in what each offers for courses though but it still doesn’t matter. If you took a SSI open water, you could do a PADI advanced later for example or vice versa. You don’t have to stick to a particular agency.
You should be able to find a PADI shop that offers the entire training, including use of gear on course for 200-250 bucks. That also includes your class, pool time, exams and your OW check out.
SSI is about the same.
You have to remember that dive shops are in competition with each other for your dollar so even within an agency, prices will differ from shop to shop. Shop around, find a place you feel comfortable with and train there. PADI , SSI , NAUI…whatever.
References :
There is no difference per se on the Diving Agency you use.
The HUGE difference is the SCUBA INSTRUCTOR you hire to teach you.
Most all the agencies are chest thumpers and all they tell you how great they are. You need to go to my website and download my Special Report on How to Hire the Right Scuba Instructor.
You should be asking your potential Instructor many questions that are covered in my report.
There you will find the BIG difference in scuba instructor. You’ll know how to find out.
You can also give me a call if you need additional information at 954-925-7337
References :
http://www.PrivateScubaLessons.com
Great question…
First I’d like to second the person who said the instructor can make all the difference. I’ve had the gamut from long-winded, to drill-sgt types to laid-back old hippies! If you have the opportunity to talk to one of the instructors, that’s ideal. Otherwise, check reviews on google or yelp) to find out who’s good at a particular store.
The other thing is: a PADI certification is good anywhere in the world. I’ve been to places in Asia / Australia and the dive center is like, "SSI – who?" That’s the last thing you want – to travel to some beautiful exotic destination halfway around the world and then not be able to dive or get stuck on the discover scuba boat.
Something else you should know: the SSI online class isn’t free. It’s free at first so you can try it out, but there’s still a cost on the back end. Be sure and talk to the instructor / store (if you haven’t already) and find out what they will charge you for educational materials. Pasted below is a link to a dive center in Florida. They offer SSI eLearning – but the class is still $475.
Here’s a list of other questions you should ask to determine the real cost of your Open Water course:
1) Rental gear:
Is the equipment you will need to use while in training included in the course? Most places will have you buy mask, fins and snorkel. What about the other items: wetsuit, BC, tank, regulator, and will they give you regular gauges or a dive computer?
2) Open Water Dives
Some places will charge a boat fee if they are taking you for your first dives off a boat. In some cases, if you’re diving in a lake, there is a park fee. Be sure to ask about that.
3) Certification card
After you have completed your course you will get a certification card (some will charge you for the card). This cost is usually around $30 and they call it an "application fee."
4) Class reschedule
If you miss a scheduled class some will charge you for rescheduling. This fee can sometimes be $50. It’s not because the store or instructor is mean or greedy, it’s just because it costs them $$$ to rent a pool sometimes.
I think $330 is a reasonable, average price for a dive certification. Remember: it’s good for life. As long as you keep diving, your certification will never expire. At 16 you can get fully certified (not a "junior" rating).
I hope you find a great dive instructor to work with. Personally I think PADI is the better choice, but either way I know you will have a blast learning to dive. It’s truly a life-changing experience.
References :
http://www.conchrepublicdivers.com/eLearning.htm