Certifications12 Oct 2023-7 min read
What PADI Course Should You Do? And Other FAQs Answered
Confused about where to start your scuba journey or what the next step after open water is? We answer all your questions here.
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course includes five adventure dives, each focusing on a different specialty area. Two dives are mandatory, and three are elective, chosen based on interest and local availability.
Each dive includes a knowledge development component, which can be completed via eLearning or in-person briefings.
Guides and stories related to this certification.
The course typically takes 2–3 days to complete and includes five adventure dives.
The course is performance-based and does not include a final exam. Divers are assessed on their ability to plan and execute the adventure dives safely and effectively under instructor supervision. Knowledge reviews are completed for each adventure dive, but the focus is on practical skills rather than theoretical testing. Most divers pass if they complete the required dives and demonstrate the necessary competencies.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesThe minimum age is 12 years old. Divers aged 12–14 will earn a Junior Advanced Open Water Diver certification and are limited to a depth of 21 metres/70 feet.
There is no final exam. Each adventure dive includes a short knowledge review, which can be completed online (via eLearning) or in person. The course emphasizes practical diving experience over classroom learning.
Yes, PADI certifications are globally recognized and accepted by dive centers and instructors around the world.
You must complete the Deep and Underwater Navigation dives, but you can choose the remaining three based on your interests and what's available locally.
Owning your own gear is not required. Most dive centers offer rental equipment, though having your own mask, snorkel, and fins is recommended for comfort and fit.
The certification qualifies you to dive to a maximum depth of 30 metres/100 feet (21 metres/70 feet for Junior Advanced Open Water Divers).
The course is designed to expand your skills at a comfortable pace. It's more about gaining experience than passing tests, and most divers find it enjoyable and manageable.
Yes, there is no required waiting period. You can start the Advanced Open Water Diver course as soon as you have completed your Open Water Diver certification.
Start as a complete beginner, and achieve professional PADI Divemaster status with comprehensive training in London and surrounding areas; suitable for ages 18+, flexible duration. From £1,775.
From £ 1775
Enhance your diving skills with 5 adventure dives over a weekend for ages 12+. Priced at £382, held at Mercers Lake and St. Andrews.
From £ 382
Become a confident diver with the PADI Advanced Open Water course. Dive up to 30m, available monthly in the UK and Malta. Prices from £445/385 Euros.
From £ 350
Enhance your diving skills with a 4-specialty program at Borehamwood, WD6 2FR. £607.50, for ages 10+, with a minimum Open Water Diver certification.
From £ 607.50
Enhance your diving skills in Punta Tegge, La Maddalena. Four dives, all equipment included. Min age: 18. £314pp.
From £ 314
Explore Gorge and Ghyll leadership training in Ingleton, North Yorkshire. Master technical rope work and hazard assessment in dynamic water environments. £260pp.
From $ 210