SSI Certified Course
SSI Open Water Diver Course
The SSI Open Water Diver course is your passport to the underwater world. This is the world's most recognised scuba diving certification — qualifying you to dive independently with a buddy to 18 metres anywhere on the planet. You'll learn everything you need to dive safely and confidently, from breathing underwater for the first time to planning and executing open water dives.
▸ Prerequisites
- None — no prior diving experience required
- A water fitness evaluation is completed as part of the course: 200m swim (any style) or 300m with mask, fins & snorkel, plus a 10-minute survival float or tread water
▸ Minimum Age & Who It's For
- Minimum age: 10 years old
- Anyone who wants to learn to scuba dive and earn a globally recognised certification
▸ Locations
- 🏫 Classroom/theory: Dorset Diving Services, Poole
- 🏊 Pool sessions: BCP Dolphin Leisure Centre, Poole
- 🌊 Open water dives: Vobster Quay, Frome
✓ What's Included
- Full equipment hire from head to toe — wetsuit, BCD, regulator, mask, fins, boots & tank
- Pool entry (free for students)
- SSI digital learning materials via the SSI app
- 4 open water training dives (minimum 80 minutes total bottom time)
- SSI Open Water Diver digital certification
✗ What's Not Included
- Mask, snorkel and boots (must be purchased from Dorset Diving Services)
- Vobster Quay entry fee (£26 per day)
- Transport to/from venues
ⓘ Good to Know
- Maximum depth: 18m (age 15+) / 12m (age 10–11); training dives 1 & 2 are limited to 12m
- You must pass a final exam to complete the course
- Your SSI Open Water Diver certification is recognised worldwide and never expires
- A medical self-declaration form is required before in-water training begins
- Previously completed a Try Scuba or Basic Diver course with us? It may count towards your training — ask us
Our accreditations