Open Water Diver course pool session with beginner scuba students practicing skills in clear blue water
PADI Open Water Diver boat trip with geared-up divers and tanks heading to a coastal dive site in the Azores
Open Water Diver training dive with two scuba divers hovering by volcanic rock reef in clear Azores waters
Listing ID : 65291

Activity

Duration25–32 Hours
Group SizeFrom 1 participant
Starts AtMeeting point confirmed on booking
LanguagesEnglish
Scuba Diving Certification

PADI Open Water Diver Course — Internationally Recognised Beginner Scuba Certification

Learn to dive, earn your certification, and explore the underwater world to 18 metres — anywhere on the planet.


The Open Water Diver course is the world's most recognised entry-level scuba certification, equipping you with the skills and confidence to dive independently to a maximum depth of 18 metres at any dive site globally. This comprehensive programme blends academic knowledge, pool-based practice, and real open-water experience into a structured learning journey. Whether you are a complete beginner or someone who has always been curious about the underwater world, this course is designed to take you there safely.

The curriculum is divided into five knowledge development modules covering essential diving concepts, equipment use, underwater communication, the buddy system, and dive planning using either dive tables or a dive computer. You will also study underwater navigation and learn practical strategies for preventing and managing common diving situations.

Training takes place across five confined-water sessions held in a pool or sheltered water, followed by four open-water dives in real dive conditions. The programme concludes with a comprehensive theoretical examination. Flexible scheduling options include two consecutive or alternating weekends, weekday evening sessions, or full weekday hours — and the course runs even with a single participant at no additional cost.

The online training format means you can complete the academic modules at your own pace before arriving for the in-water sessions, making efficient use of your available time. All necessary equipment is provided, and the course price includes an activity insurance policy with Civil Liability coverage of 20 million EUR as well as your international dive certification upon successful completion.

Course Highlights

Earn an internationally recognised scuba diving certification valid at dive sites worldwide.

Qualify to dive independently to 18 metres in open water anywhere on the globe.

Flexible scheduling: weekends, weekday evenings, or daytime sessions to suit your routine.

Private instruction available — the course runs with just one participant at no extra cost.

Activity insurance included with Civil Liability coverage up to 20 million EUR.

Online Training format lets you complete knowledge development modules at your own pace.

All scuba equipment provided — no need to own or hire gear separately for the course.

How the Course Unfolds

1
Online Knowledge Development

Complete five academic modules through the Online Training platform, covering equipment, dive physics, physiology, dive planning, and safety procedures. You can study at home, at your own pace, before the in-water sessions begin.

2
Confined Water Sessions (Pool)

Five pool-based sessions introduce core scuba skills in a controlled environment. You will practice breathing underwater, mask clearing, regulator recovery, buoyancy control, and buddy procedures with direct instructor supervision.

3
Underwater Navigation and Problem Management

Dedicated training covers compass navigation, natural landmark use, and the practical prevention and resolution of common underwater situations. These skills form the foundation of autonomous and responsible diving.

4
Open Water Dives

Four open-water dives consolidate everything learned in the pool and academic modules in real dive conditions. Your instructor evaluates your performance across all core competencies during these sessions.

5
Final Theory Examination

A comprehensive written examination assesses your understanding of all five knowledge development modules. Passing this exam is required to complete the certification process.

6
Certification

Upon successful completion of all modules, confined-water sessions, open-water dives, and the examination, you receive your international Open Water Diver certification, recognised globally and valid for life.

What Is Included

Included

  • All Open Water Diver course materials
  • Full scuba equipment for all sessions
  • Online Training platform access
  • Five confined-water pool sessions
  • Four open-water dives
  • Activity insurance with 20 million EUR Civil Liability coverage
  • International scuba diving certification

Not Included

  • Personal dive equipment or wetsuit purchase
  • Transport to and from the dive site
  • Accommodation
  • Meals and beverages
  • Optional medical examination fees (if required)

Important Information

Please read the following details carefully before booking. Some requirements are mandatory and non-negotiable for participation.
Duration
25 to 32 hours total, spread across multiple sessions. The exact number of days depends on the scheduling format chosen — two weekends, weekday evenings, or daytime hours.
Meeting Point
The precise meeting point is confirmed at the time of booking. Pool and open-water session locations will be communicated in advance.
What to Bring
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and any personal items for pool sessions. All technical scuba equipment is provided. A basic level of physical fitness and swimming ability is expected.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are confirmed at the time of booking. Please contact the operator directly for details regarding rescheduling or cancellation policy.
Accessibility
Participants must be comfortable in the water and meet the minimum fitness requirements for scuba diving. Specific accessibility queries should be directed to the operator before booking.
Age Range
Minimum age is 10 years. Participants aged 10 to 14 receive the Junior Open Water Diver certification. There is no upper age limit, subject to a satisfactory health declaration.

Ready to Dive In?

Secure your place on the Open Water Diver course and take the first step toward a lifetime of scuba diving adventures. The course runs with a single participant, so there is never a reason to wait for a group to form.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior diving experience to enrol?
No prior scuba experience is required. The Open Water Diver course is specifically designed for complete beginners and covers all foundational knowledge and skills from scratch.
Is the certification valid worldwide?
Yes. The Open Water Diver certification is internationally recognised and accepted at dive centres and dive sites across the world. It has no expiry date once awarded.
Can children participate in this course?
Yes, from the age of 10. Participants between 10 and 14 years of age complete the same programme and receive the Junior Open Water Diver certification, which carries certain depth restrictions until the participant turns 15.
What happens if I cannot complete all sessions on consecutive days?
The course is flexible and can be completed over two consecutive or alternating weekends, or across weekday sessions. The operator will work with you to find a schedule that fits your availability.
Do I need to provide my own scuba equipment?
No. All necessary scuba equipment is included in the course. You only need to bring a swimsuit and a towel for pool sessions.
Is insurance included in the course price?
Yes. The course includes activity insurance with Civil Liability coverage of up to 20 million EUR, covering all sessions from confined-water training through to the open-water dives.
Scuba DivingOpen Water DiverDiving CertificationBeginner DivingPADI CourseUnderwater DivingLearn to DiveDive TrainingWater SportsOcean ActivitiesJunior DiverDive Course Portugal
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: OWD-001

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

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Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

End Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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