PADI Open Water Certification with Scuba.com - NY
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 days total
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; basic swimming ability needed with comfort in water environments.
Overview
Become a certified PADI Open Water Diver with Scuba.com - New York. Learn theory online, hone skills in a pool, then dive at Lake Hydra’s clear freshwater quarry.
Adventure Tips
Complete Online Coursework First
Finish the PADI eLearning before pool sessions to maximize in-water focus and progress smoothly.
Arrive Hydrated and Rested
Diving requires alertness; being well-hydrated and rested improves performance and safety underwater.
Use Full Rental Gear Provided
Rental equipment includes wetsuit, fins, regulator, and more, ensuring a properly fitted and tested setup.
Prepare for Transportation Logistics
Lake Hydra is outside NYC; arrange your transport in advance as it is not provided by Scuba.com.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Freshwater bass
- Introduced trout species
History
Lake Hydra, formerly Dutch Springs, was once a 20th-century industrial quarry transformed into a premier dive destination in the Northeast.
Conservation
Scuba.com promotes environmental stewardship by encouraging divers to respect aquatic habitats and minimize impact during dives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mask and Snorkel
A well-fitting mask and snorkel improve comfort and ease underwater breathing during training.
Wetsuit (7mm)
Keeps you warm in Lake Hydra’s cool freshwater and protects from abrasions on submerged surfaces.
spring|fall|winter specific
Fins
Quality fins increase propulsion efficiency, reducing fatigue during open water dives.
Dive Computer
Monitors depth and time underwater for safety; useful if purchasing gear post-certification.