Product Description
Many divers find the Advanced Open Water course very advantageous to have prior to going on a dive trip locally or abroad. Not only will you increase your own comfort and ability, but this certification is recognized globally and will enable you to access different dive sites than you may be able to explore with just an Open Water card. You will be certified to dive deeper (30m/100ft) and go on exciting night dives. With an Advanced Open Water certification, you will also be recognized as a more experienced diver with buoyancy, navigation and communication skills, while also being able to visit more sensitive marine environments. In addition, certain continuing education scuba courses such as the PADI Wreck Diver Specialty or Cavern Diver Specialty require a minimum of an Advanced Open Water certification.
This course is focused largely on the practical, in-water side of training; however, students are required to complete some homework prior to completing their dives. The Adventures in Diving manual contains a wealth of information on various Adventure Dives. These will be assigned when you register and pick up your materials. Knowledge Reviews for these chapters must be completed. Topics include dive planning, rescue techniques, navigational diving, deep diving, and night diving. This program consists of pre and post dive briefings during the weekend of Advanced Open Water dives.
5 dives are included in the Advanced Open Water course. These can be completed in one weekend, either in Tobermory or Brockville. The dives normally consist of Peak Performance Buoyancy, Drift, Night, Navigation, and Deep, but these may vary slightly from course to course depending upon divers’ needs, conditions, and other contributing factors. Deep and Navigation dives are, however, mandatory components of the Advanced Open Water course and must be completed to earn the certification.
The only prerequisites for the Advanced Open Water course are a clean bill of health according to the medical statement and an Open Water certification (or equivalent).
Minimum Age:
– 12 years for a Junior Advanced Open Water Certification
– 15 years for Advanced Open Water Certification
Note: We evaluate each young diver individually upon inquiry/registration for ability to participate in an adult oriented learning environment and the physical demands of cold water diving. Some 12 year old are prepared for these challenges whereas some 16 year old may not be yet. This is strictly for safety purposes and we believe that scuba diving can be enjoyed by all ages, if approached responsibly.