Open Water Scuba Diver Course by Scuba Quest Sarasota
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 days depending on course format
Fitness Level
Moderate; participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim short distances with gear
Overview
Take the plunge with Scuba Quest - Sarasota’s Open Water Scuba Diver Course, where beginners gain certification through expert instruction and immersive training in Florida’s clear waters. Discover the local underwater world and dive confidently with comprehensive support along the way.
Open Water Scuba Diver Course
Ages 10+ • Entry Level Certification Course!
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About This Adventure
Begin your underwater explorations!
Class dates and times
- Weekend Format: Class meets from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm on Friday, Saturday from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, and Sunday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm with Checkout Dives the following Saturday and Sunday.
- Day Class Format: Class meets from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday through Wednesday with Checkout Dives Thursday and Friday.
- Night Class Format: Class meets from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Monday through Thursday with Checkout Dives that Saturday and Sunday (night pool sessions are 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm)
About
Just imagine where you will go! Begin your underwater explorations by enrolling in an Open Water Scuba Diver course. This is our entry-level certification course where you will learn the fundamental knowledge and skills to safely dive in open water. Earning your Open Water Scuba Diver Certification is an accomplishment for which you will rightfully feel proud, and you will be ready to begin a lifetime of underwater adventures and discovery. During your Scuba Quest Open Water Scuba Diver course, you will learn about modern diving equipment, diving sciences, responsible diving practices, and the environment. Diving skills will be taught and practiced first in the comfort and convenience of our local pool and then during your open water training dives with your Scuba Quest Instructor in both the freshwater and ocean environments.
What we include:
- BCD Rental
- Regulator Rental
- Tanks
- Wetsuit
- Elearning
- Classroom sessions
- Pool sessions
- Check Out Dives (Includes Boat fee)
What to bring:
- Your own mask
- Fins
- Snorkel
- Weight belt
- Weights
- Surface Marker Buoy
- Completed diver medical form
Please review the diver medical form. Follow the instructions at the bottom of the form. If you have any questions, please contact us.
Adventure Tips
Complete Your Medical Form Beforehand
Submit the required diver medical form fully completed to avoid delays during registration and ensure safety.
Bring Your Own Mask, Fins, and Snorkel
While other gear is provided, personal fit items like masks and fins improve comfort and performance underwater.
Practice Skills in Pool Sessions
Take pool training seriously—it’s where you learn buoyancy control and breathing techniques critical for open water dives.
Dress for Warm Water Conditions
Florida’s waters are generally warm, but a wetsuit is provided for comfort; avoid cotton clothing on dive days to stay dry and warm before sessions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Loggerhead sea turtles
- Southern stingrays
History
Sarasota’s waters have long attracted divers, with artificial reefs installed to enhance marine habitats and recreational diving since the late 20th century.
Conservation
Local dive operators including Scuba Quest emphasize reef-friendly diving practices, minimizing disturbance to fragile marine ecosystems and promoting protection of native species.
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Adventure Hotspots in Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Dive Mask
Improves underwater visibility and fit, a crucial comfort item during training and dives.
Fins
Essential for efficient swimming underwater and learning proper propulsion techniques.
Snorkel
Useful during surface swims and conserving air supply during dives.
Wetsuit (provided)
Protects against cooler water and provides buoyancy support during dives.
all-year specific