WHY DO PEOPLE SCUBA DIVE?
Every venture underwater is a new and exciting opportunity for exploration and discovery. The world underwater is full of beauty and excitement. Every dive gives us a glimpse of a unique and fascinating world which is very different from our own. Scuba diving provides fun, relaxation and an opportunity to make new friends. Learning to scuba dive can become the beginning of a lifelong adventure. It can literally change your life!

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BECOME A CERTIFIED SCUBA DIVER?
Beginning training consisting of classroom sessions, pool practice and at least four training dives in the ocean will generally cost under $250. In addition to the cost of instruction' you will want to own your mask, snorkel and fins. Most scuba schools furnish scuba equipment for use during pool sessions. For the ocean training dives you may either purchase or rent the scuba equipment, wetsuit and weights required to complete the class. The expense you will incur for equipment purchase and rental will vary depending on which items you choose to rent and which ones you decide to purchase. To complete your course, most scuba schools require that each student purchase a student kit consisting of log book, textbook, workbook and dive tables. These kits are priced from $35 to $55.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
A training program which leads to international certification as an Openwater Scuba Diver will take about 35 hours. The training can often be completed in as little as two weekends or it can be scheduled over several weeks. Professional scuba schools will have a variety of options available to accommodate your needs. Private lessons, accelerated training and home study programs are readily available in most areas.

WHEN ARE CLASSES OFFERED?
Scuba certification classes are given year around in Northern California. Your lessons will begin in a comfortable heated pool which will prepare you for an easy transition to ocean training. Since water temperature in Northern California varies only a few degrees from season to season we can enjoy good diving any time of the year. For an up-to-date schedule of classes we suggest you call or visit a Northern California Scuba Retailers Association member listed on page 4 of this brochure.

WHERE IS THE BEST DIVING?
Some of the best diving in the world is found right here in California. The kelp forests off all of Northern California, including Monterey and Carmel are world famous for their beauty and abundance of life. The Channel Islands out of Santa Barbara and Los Angeles are also world class dive destinations attracting divers from all over the world. The fact is that there is beautiful diving found in I nearly every ocean in the world. Experienced divers will debate which is the 'Ibest'l, but few dispute that the Pacific Ocean, north and south is spectacular! We live on the edge of the largest and most diverse ocean in the world.

CAN I START MY TRAINING HERE AND COMPLETE MY OPEN WATER DIVES ON A VACATION TO A TROPICAL DESTINATION?
Yes. That process is called open water referral. You complete the classroom training, pool practice sessions and written work through your local scuba retailer. Your instructor will furnish you with an official referral form which documents your successful completion of the first part of the training. You can then make arrangements for a certified instructor at your tropical destination to complete the open water training. This option is recommended for people who plan to dive exclusively in warm water. If you plan to enjoy diving in California we suggest all your training be completed here.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO TAKE A SCUBA CERTIFICATION CLASS?
Anyone who is at least 12 years old and in normal good health can learn to scuba dive. You do not have to be an exceptionally strong swimmer or an athlete. Scuba diving is a relaxing, safe sport which is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. If you have any concerns about your health or swimming skills as it relates to scuba diving you should discuss them with an instructor at your local Northern California Scuba Retailers Association member.

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO TAKE A SCUBA CERTIFICATION COURSE?
The best source of all your diving needs including quality instruction is your local professional scuba retailer. The members of the Northern California Scuba Retailers Association are privately owned businesses who dedicate themselves exclusively to serving the needs of recreational scuba divers. Each business offers complete instructions programs at all levels. Equipment service and repair and rentals as well as air fills are available only through your local scuba retailer. In addition, each retailer offers expert advise and consultation in the purchase and proper use of an exciting array of quality scuba diving equipment and accessories. Most retailers also sponsor a regular program of dive trips and activities designed specifically to meet the needs of their customers.

WHAT ABOUT EQUIPMENT?
Learning to dive is learning to use equipment. While you are learning, it is just as important that you use good equipment that fits properly as it is that you have good training. The best source for advise and assistance in selecting the right equipment is your local Northern California Scuba Retailers Association member. Scuba equipment is constantly being improved and new designs and technology are becoming available on a regular basis. Your local professional scuba retailer will have the most up-to-dateproducts and information available. If you do not already own them, you will probably want to purchase your own mask' snorkel, fins and dive boots when you enroll in a scuba class. The staff of your local dive store will assist and advise you in selecting the items that are best for you.

HOW DO I ENROLL IN A SCUBA CERTIFICATION CLASS?
Contact your local Northern California Scuba Retailers Association member, select the class starting date you prefer and pay the required deposit (usually $25 to $50). This will reserve your place in the class of your choice. Since class sizes are normally small it is a good idea to reserve your place well in advance. Pacific Offshore Divers in San Jose, CA