NTD is a proud supporter of Ontario's most popular dive forum
Next Class:
Call us for the date and time.
613-634-8464
Basic Open Water - Introduction
We offer the best Open Water Class in Ontario! Our classes are small, convenient
and competitively priced!
You have always been fascinated by the beauty of the underwater world and been curious
as to what it would be like to float weightlessly in anticipation of the next wonder
that will enthrall you.
Whether you are planning a tropical dive vacation or you want to explore the
wrecks of Lake Ontario – our Entry Level Diver course (Open Water Diver) emphasizes
fun & safety . Starting with the flexible classes which accommodate your busy
schedule, the top of the line dive gear used in training designed to increase your
comfort & safety, to the friendly, knowledgeable Dive Team - Northern Tech Diver
strives to make your open water class a truly unique and enjoyable experience!
The Basic Open Water Course is an entry level course which will train an individual
to SCUBA dive safely and with confidence. Topics covered are equipment, physiology,
oceanography, decompression and open water techniques. Open water dives are made at
the end of the course, to complete the certification.
Prerequisites
Age fifteen (15) and up.
Completion of a medical history form.
Be in reasonable physical condition (be able to swim a minimum of 200 Meters
without stopping).
Duration
More than 40 hours of learning consisting of a combination of self study (either on-line or from the course book), classroom instruction, poolside instruction, confined water training (normally in the pool) and Open Water dives.
On-line study.
Self study from course manual.
Classroom sessions.
Pool sessions.
Five Open Water dives.
Weekday courses will consist of two evening classes a week for three weeks. Each
evening is split evenly between classroom and pool session (7:00PM to 11:00PM).
Once these sessions have been completed, the open water sessions will be scheduled.
Every effort is made to ensure that the course is completed within a one month
time frame.
Weekend courses are very intense, full days. We begin at 9:00 am in the classroom and spend all day in the classroom (with a lunch break) ending at 4:00 or 5:00 pm and then getting in the pool at 7:00 pm. Pool sessions are either 2 or 3 hours long, depending on the number of students in the class.
Having students complete the academic study prior to the weekend makes it possible to cover all the required material and get the in-water time needed in just two days. Having prepared in advance by completing either the on-line study or book study alloows us to maximize the benefits of face to face time with the instructor and focus on the hands on aspects of learning to scuba dive. Students doing their open water course during the winter are encouraged to return during future courses to practice their skills in the pool; there are usually a number of experienced divers who join us for these sessions and who are happey to share their knowledge and experience with new divers. (A nominal pool time and equipment fee may be charged for these sessions.)
Course Content
SCUBA equipment.
SCUBA habits and good practices.
Physiology of diving.
Diving oceanography (physical aspects of the environment).
Open water techniques (dive planning and procedures).
Decompression Theory.
Testing.
Pool sessions to introduce and practice sound SCUBA habits and techniques.
Five open water dives that practice and test all aspects of the Open Water Program.
What's Provided
All course materials - Books and Dive Tables.
All rental equipment other than personal gear. We provide tanks, regulators, BCD, weights and wetsuit; all your equipment is professionally fitted by our Instruction Staff. Students must bring their own personal gear. See Personal Gear requirements below.
$349.99(CDN) + GST. This includes all course materials and equipment rentals for
the pool sessions.
$50.00 non-refundable deposit required upon booking
Additional Costs
$100.00 Openwater check out fee payable any time prior to the OW check out.
Personal Gear Requirements
Proper equipment is essential for your safety and ultimately your enjoyment of diving.
Because of the personal nature and proper fit required, students must provide the following equipment:
Silicone Mask
Snorkel
Open-heel scuba fins
6.5mm Boots
Our experienced staff will work with you to ensure that your personal equipment is suitable and fits you properly.
Our students are eligible for "student packages" on equipment purchases.
Other Options
PADI has lead the way in course materials for many years. Now they have done it again with PADI's eLearning . You can now sign up for your Open Water course and complete the Knowledge Development portion on-line! This alternative to using PADI's book give you access to all the same material as well as videos and immediate feedback on knowledge reviews. The cost is $120.00 USD for the PADI eLearning portion of the course. This fee is paid directly to PADI and not to NorthernTechDiver.