This is the first complete PADI SCUBA (Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) diving course that takes you from total beginner to becoming a certified diver. This certification allows you to go diving with somebody with at least your level of training or higher in conditions similar or better than those in which you were trained. If you already tried a PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience or are PADI Scuba Diver certified, check with your instructor to see how credit from these courses may apply to the open water program.

You are restricted to going no deeper than 18 meters. This is the course that can and does change lives, opening a whole new world to explore. You'll meet new friends to share these new and exciting experiences with. Where would you like to dive? Australia, the Red Sea, The Maldives, Bahamas. Not forgetting the adventurous Swiss lakes and rivers, or the Italian coastal waters full of marine life and historical wrecks. Diving really adds a new dimension to your life!

What Is the PADI Open Water Certification?
After you successfully complete all portions of the PADI Open Water Diver course you are awarded a certification card. This credit card style certification contains your photo and confirms your level of training. The certification never expires but if you don't dive for some time the recommendation is that you participate in the PADI Scuba Review program to refresh your knowledge and diving skills.

PADI qualifications are recognised worldwide. PADI stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors. It is by far the most popular diver training agency in the world. Once you have the Open Water certification you can enrol in many continuing education courses such as the PADI Advanced Open water Diver, or many speciality courses.

What will I do?
Throughout the course, you’ll learn fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. You earn this rating by completing five pool dives and knowledge development sessions and by making four open water (ocean or lake) dives.

The course is divided into three segments:

1. Knowledge Development
There are five sections. You will read each section of your manual in your own time at your own pace, and fill out the knowledge review found at the end of each chapter. The class meets and your instructor will go through the knowledge reviews you have completed. Then you will watch a PADI video followed by an instructor reinforcing and expanding on the information you have studied. At the end of each of the theory modules you will be given a short quiz to help determine your progress. Together with your instructor you will ensure that you'll have no difficulties at all with the theory test at the end of the five modules; you'll need 75% or higher, and you'll get the chance to complete a second test if necessary.

The knowledge requirement for this level is not difficult. The well designed materials make learning effortless and fun.

2. Confined Water Training
This is where you will learn the skills to dive safely. There are five confined water sessions, conducted over two days at a local swimming pool. You will learn the necessary skills to enjoy your later dives in the open water in comfort and safety. The concept of "mastery" is emphasised through the course; more advanced skills are attempted only after prerequisite skills have been successfully mastered. This means that you'll progress at your own pace.

3. Open Water Dives
Four open water dives are required for certification. In this part of the course you must demonstrate your ability to perform the skills you previously mastered in the confined water training sessions. The open water dives are conducted in Lake Zurich, or another lake depending on conditions. You have one year to complete your four open water dives from the time you finish your confined Water training and knowledge development modules, though it is advisable to complete the dives as soon as possible to ensure that previously acquired knowledge is retained. You can also independently complete your four dives at any PADI training centre around the World in over 90 countries.

In the open water modules the instructor/student ratio will never be greater than 1:2 or 1:3. This assures maximum security and comfort for all students.

All participants experience a relaxed and friendly atmosphere during the course.

Is there a swim test? How old must I be?
You do not need to be an Olympic swimmer to complete the course. The most important point is that you are relaxed and comfortable in the water. Yes, there is a swim test; by the end of the course you must complete a 200 meter swim. This swim has no time limit and you may swim with any style you like. There is also a survival float test; you must float for ten minutes. You must be at least ten years old and be in reasonably good health. If you have any health concerns please speak to us. Divers under 15 years of age will be awarded the Junior Open Water Diver rating. This is exactly the same course but an adult must accompany the junior diver. The certification can then be upgraded once the diver passes their 15th birthday.

Is there is a medical test?
You are required you to complete a medical declaration form. If you answer "yes" to any part of the form, or are unsure about anything, consult your doctor and have them sign the form.

What do I need to bring with me?
Swimming costume, neoprene boots (available in any dive store) and a sense of adventure. It is also recommended for your own comfort that you complete the course using your own mask, snorkel and fins, however you can also use rental equipment if you choose to do so.

What is included?
Equipment rental, air refills, pool entry, certification card and course materials. In some cases there may be a small additional charge (around CHF30) to cover extra pool charges which we sometimes have to pay. You will be informed about this prior to and during the course.

How long will it take?
PADI programs are performance based. You proceed as you demonstrate mastery of the course skills. This allows you to work at a pace that is comfortable for you. Previously we ran the course over two weekends, with several evenings during the week required. However, most people have limited time so we've restructured things slightly to make the course more time-efficent. It is now (if you complete study assignments at home) possible to complete the course in a single weekend!

When do the courses run?
Courses are usually conducted between the end of April and the beginning of October. Some fixed courses are scheduled; others can be run on a private basis to fit around your schedule. If you'd like to organise your own group it is also possible to schedule the course whenever you like, you simply need a group with a minimum of three people.

Where can I go from here?
You can continue your adventure by joining us for some guided dives, or by enrolling in the Advanced Open Water Diver course. You can also participate in the various speciality courses on offer, or just go diving with any other qualified diver.

What's next? How do I book?
Please be sure to read the additional information for people doing the Open Water Diver course. You can also read the booking instructions.