The SDI / PADI Open Water Referral course is designed for those who want to earn their scuba certification while making the most of their vacation time. This flexible training option allows you to complete the academic and confined water portions of the Open Water course at your local dive shop before traveling—so all that’s left are the fun open water dives in a beautiful tropical setting.

The course will be completed with four open water dives in the cenotes or on the reefs of Playa del Carmen, offering crystal-clear water and stunning marine life—an ideal environment to finish your certification experience.

Course Topics Include:

• Review of dive theory and safety protocols

• Skill reinforcement from confined water training

• Underwater communication and buddy procedures

• Buoyancy control, trim, and proper finning techniques

• Mask clearing, regulator recovery, and air-sharing skills

• Descent/ascent techniques and emergency procedures

• Environmental awareness and safe diving practices

Course Structure:

• Academic & Confined Water Training: Completed in advance with your local SDI or PADI dive center, including online eLearning and confined water dives

• Open Water Dives: 4 dives over 2 days in open water, applying and demonstrating the skills learned during your initial training

Prerequisites:

• Minimum age: 10 years old

• Completion of Confined Water Dives 1–5 and academic portion of the SDI or PADI Open Water course

• Proof of referral paperwork from your original instructor

Certification Outcome:
Upon successful completion of the four open water dives, you will receive your SDI or PADI Open Water Scuba Diver certification. This globally recognized certification allows you to dive to 18 meters/60 feet with a buddy and is your first step into the world of scuba diving. Recommended add on courses are Advanced Adventurer, Enriched Air Nitrox, and Advanced Buoyancy Control.