Here are a list of questions that our customers ask about our popular SCUBA diving lessons. We have compiled a list of answers which may surprise you!
What does SCUBA mean?
SCUBA is an acronym for Self
Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. This unit and other diving
equipment makes breathing underwater possible.
Take a look at our SCUBA diving equipment and gear page for details of the equipment we lend you for your diving lessons.
What is PADI?
PADI stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors and is the world-wide leader in diver education and tuition. All of Essex Scuba Diving’s Essex based Instructors are fully qualified PADI Open Water SCUBA Instructors.
Who can Dive at Essex Scuba Diving?
Anyone from the age of 10 years and up and who is in reasonable health and in or around Essex. For your safety, you will complete a simple health questionnaire before your first dive, if any health concerns become apparent we will ask you to get checked out and given the ‘all clear’ by your doctor. You can find details of the forms on our PADI diving safety page.
Do I need to be a good swimmer?
No, SCUBA is not about swimming, so
you do not need to be a great swimmer. But, you do need to be able to
swim and you also need to be fairly confident in the water. If you are
uncertain or under confident in your ability then just give us a call
for an informal chat, you are probably worrying unnecessarily
Where can I SCUBA Dive?
Anywhere there is water! The PADI
Open Water certification means you can dive anywhere in the world! Our
confined and open water environments are suited to your learning curve
and we strive to teach you to be a safe and responsible diver.
Do I need my own SCUBA equipment?
No. We will provide you with the
necessary equipment to get you going during your course. If you do wish
to purchase your own kit we are happy to chat about suitable
starter-kit items and reputable brands from our suppliers in Essex.
What’s it like breathing Underwater?
Exhilarating and amazing and relaxing too. It’s a strange combination! As we enter the aquatic realm we see sights and sounds and experience sensations most people have not yet experienced. Light and sound act differently, while underwater creatures do not seem too surprised to see us in the Big Blue. We dive in a 3-D weightless environment surrounded by diverse life; it is truly a unique sensation!
What SCUBA Course should I Start?
Most people start with the very popular PADI Open Water course and then develop their diving by becoming PADI Adventure Diver. The PADI Adventure Diver allows the diver to focus on areas of interest, be it Wreck Diving, Underwater Photography, Conservation, Boat, or DPV (Diver Propelled Vehicle) and many more… please see our PADI specialty trips for more Details..
Is it expensive?
In relation to other sports no. SCUBA is certainly cheaper than Golf Lessons and last’s a lot longer than Bungee Jumping! We offer our courses at very competitive prices. We do not charge for “hidden extras”. If elsewhere a Course seems too cheap to be true it probably is. The price you pay with us includes everything you need, with no nasty surprises.
Is SCUBA diving safe?
We work hard to ensure our student
safety at all times. As with any activity that involves some form of
physical exertion, diving is not without risks, but we will ensure
that these are as minimal as possible while you are with us. Our job at
Essex Scuba Diving is to train you to dive safely to the best of our
ability and to ensure you are as protected as much as possible from any
risks.
What do I get once I have completed a Diving Course?
Depending on what course you are
undergoing you will receive a PADI certification card and wall
certificate. The certification card is recognized World-Wide as a sign
of your diver training. It is essential that your card and log-book
are presented to dive shops and schools prior to any dive activity.
What happens next?
Well, really it is up to you.
Continue your diver education and tuition with us or continue your
recreational diving with us. Either way, Essex Scuba Diving in Essex
will be here to help and guide you for the rest of your diving career.