Best & cheapest place to get scuba licence

[TrooperLauren]

I'd like to get a scuba qualification - I'm currently in North America. Any recommendations on the best and cheapest place to do it?

 

[vladimir]

They're probably two different places.

 

[SCUBA BEAR]

North America is a pretty big place. Can you narrow down your location?
Scuba bear.

 

[samaka]

There is no such combination...


.......a.......

 

[JKPAO]

Cheap is one thing, the best is another all together. You will and can find many debates (on SB) about which is best or has the most information and techniques "included into a program.
Getting a cert is just a start, before you sign up to just any cheap or best you should do some research as to what will meet your requirements! Being a person that is interested in diving is the first step. Then you need to know what is taught in the "cheap" course,... and the "best" course!
There are many threads about how to choose an instructor and or class. (I personally like the one by Walter, it is straight forward)
There are several options and all will get you in the water breathing bubbles!
I hope this helps.... Have fun with it!
See you topside! John

 

[RJP]

I'd like to get a scuba qualification - I'm currently in North America. Any recommendations on the best and cheapest place to do it?

Like saying "I want the best and cheapest car" it's potentially a combination that is at odds with each other.

You can get "the best 'cheap' car" or you can get "a good deal on the 'best' car" but it's hard to get "the best car, cheap."

You also need to clarify what you mean by "best" as most of us would hope you mean "highest quality training" however it is possible you mean "most beautiful resort location" or something else.

Lastly, as mentioned, North America is pretty big. I know a great place in NJ with reasonable pricing, but if that's 3000mi away it might not do you much good.

 

[The Chairman]

I agree with the others: you get what you pay for. Go for the most thourough class you can find and don't be surprised if part of it is Internet based. I teach in the Orlando area and we have instructors world wide here on ScubaBoard. I can tell you though: I am not cheap.

 

[DennisW]

Agree with the other posts. Cheapest and best are likely mutually exclusive terms in this case. You want someone that will give you the training that will keep you safe and alive while also giving you the ability to help your dive buddy and keep them safe and alive. "Cheap" shouldn't enter the picture. As said here, there are many different agencies and programs, focus on the training that will make you a safe diver and it will be challenging and fun all at the same time.

 

[--tom--]

If you don't mind spending 15 weeks on training, frequently the local community college is a good choice. It won't be much different in cost, but there is time to cover more theory and spend quite a bit of time in the pool.

 

[k ellis]

Id have to agree with others post. Unless your someone who dove for years back in the 70s (which I have seen many of) and just decided to go ahead and get back into it Id recommend waying out what is your life worth and what do you expect to learn. if your asking about where reginal would be cheapest try the oklahoma area as many times I have found they are between 199 dollars and roughly 273 dollars for a complete certification as opposed to say florida or the east coast which I have seen over charge up to 600 dollars or better in many cases.