The Open Water Diver course is the most popular entry-level scuba certification. Here is how a typical programme is structured at a shop like BIGBLUE DIVERS.
Knowledge development
You study dive theory — physics, equipment, underwater environment, and problem management — either online or in classroom sessions with your instructor. Short quizzes confirm you understand each chapter.
Confined water (pool or shallow lagoon)
You practise skills in a controlled environment: mask clearing, regulator recovery, buoyancy, emergency ascents, and buddy procedures. Instructors correct technique before you enter the open ocean.
Open-water dives
You complete four open-water dives (or the equivalent required by your training agency). Each dive builds on the last: navigation, deeper descents within limits, and demonstrating skills in real conditions.
After certification
Once certified, you can dive with a buddy to 18 metres / 60 feet and continue with Advanced Open Water or specialty courses. Browse our sample Courses catalog on this demo site to see how operators list packages and prices.
PADI Open Water: What You Learn in Each Session
A clear breakdown of pool work, theory, and open-water dives so you know how the certification week unfolds.
June 10, 2026
