Do I need prior diving experience?

No, this certification course is designed for beginners with no prior experience.

What underwater creatures might I see?

You'll encounter colorful fish, kelp forests, sea lions, lobsters, and possibly octopuses.

How many dives are included?

Participants complete four certification dives over two days.

What safety measures are in place?

Our instructors adhere to strict safety protocols following recognized diving standards.

Is equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary diving gear is included in the course fee.

Can minors participate?

Yes, participants must be at least 10 years old to enroll.

Diving Catalina Island Certification with Diving Catalina | Snorkel | Water Activities

Catalina Island, located just off the coast of Southern California, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal setting for scuba diving enthusiasts. Diving Catalina offers a unique opportunity for beginners to complete their Open Water Diver certification amid captivating underwater landscapes. Over two days, participants undertake four meticulously guided certification dives, each designed to refine skills and build confidence. The island's underwater scenery features kelp forests, colorful reefs, and a variety of marine creatures, from playful Garibaldi to curious lobsters and inoffensive sea lions, creating a dynamic and engaging diving experience.

What sets Diving Catalina apart is their team of experienced instructors affiliated with multiple recognized agencies, ensuring high standards of safety and education. Whether you’re new to diving or seeking to advance your credentials, their comprehensive approach makes learning accessible and enjoyable. The certification dives take place in shallow, pristine waters with excellent visibility, offering clear views of Catalina’s underwater biodiversity. Beyond the technical skills, divers often find this experience a meditative, almost otherworldly escape filled with encounters that ignite a deeper appreciation for marine environments.

Being part of this adventure connects you to the rich history of Catalina, including its significance as a haven for marine conservation and a popular destination for ocean lovers. With the island’s dramatic cliffs and weathered rock formations as backdrops, this trip delivers both education and awe-inspiring scenery. Whether you’re in town for a quick getaway or a dedicated dive trip, Diving Catalina’s certification courses present an unforgettable way to deepen your connection to the ocean.

In addition to learning, participants leave with a sense of achievement, new skills, and a genuine bond with Catalina’s underwater world. Certified divers often return year after year, eager to discover more of Catalina's submerged treasures.

About Diving Catalina

Diving Catalina is a dive operator based on Catalina Island, California, offering guided scuba and snorkeling experiences around Casino Point Dive Park and nearby sites. The company provides a range of services for beginners, certified divers, and certification students, including equipment rentals, introductory dives, guided kelp forest and reef dives, night dives, and specialty excursions using diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs) and power snorkel scooters.

Instructors lead Introductory Scuba Dives and Casino Point Snorkel Tours, introducing guests to vibrant marine life, kelp forests, and the protected, pollution-free waters of California’s first nonprofit underwater park. Referral Dives and Open Water Classes allow divers to complete certification dives on Catalina Island with instruction from agency-affiliated professionals. An Enriched Air Diver specialty course is also offered for certified divers seeking extended bottom time.

Diving Catalina supports returning divers through 1-Tank Refresher Dives to rebuild skills and confidence and provides 1-Tank DPV and 1-Tank Guided Kelp Forest Dives for more expansive underwater exploration. Night Dives showcase nocturnal species and teach night dive techniques, buoyancy, and navigation under instructor supervision. Power Snorkel EXTREME gives snorkelers motorized assistance to cover more distance safely and enjoyably.

All trips emphasize safety, local site knowledge, and equipment access through scuba rentals and guided formats. Divers and snorkelers can expect professionally led outings in a scenic marine environment on Catalina Island, focused on education, wildlife observation, and memorable underwater experiences. Reservations, rental availability, and schedule information are provided directly by Diving Catalina through its booking channels on Catalina Island and staff.

Diving Catalina Island Certification with Diving Catalina

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