More Dives or AOW??

[MJI]

Hello again all, with my second post - I'm really enjoying the place and it's going to expand my knowledge so much!

My question, in seeking opinions really.....

I completed my PADI OW in September last year, and only performed the required dives, and one additional dive.

I am now travelling to the Maldives in June, and wonder what peoples thoughts were on what I should concentrate on.... getting dives under my belt, or going directly for AOW - if that is even possible?

Right now, I'm on the lines of just getting more dives under my belt. It should help to boost my confidence as a diver, I get to use underwater time for seeing the things I choose to go to the Maldives to see instead of doing skills, and it means I don't have to spend some of my relax time in a classroom.

But that's just me.... however, I would really appreciate all your opinions on the subject.

Thanks to all in advance,

 

[sasscuba]

What is your hurry to get AOW?

 

[Mr. Sunday]

I would do a few dives and relax rather than spend your first dives all being for training. When your ready sign up for adv o/w

 

[scubapatton]

ditto

 

[ScubaSpicher]

Just to contradict, I went right from OW to AOW. I took a year off as you did and would have have been comfortable in the water without the supervision of an instructor. You build on skills in the AOW and although you do not have to take it, especially if you an experienced buddy to dive with, it was reassuring to me to dive with instructors. Just my two cents...

I do not think I would spend time in Maldives going through training, but if you could do it before you left it may not be a bad idea. The AOW can be done in one weekend and is not study intensive as the OW course. More of a focus on diving.

 

[300bar]

Normaly I would agree with the previous posters,but now,your going to the Maldives in a couple of weeks.There for I would advice to get your AOW ASAP.Ok it does depend on where you're going but most dives are AOW dives.Are you up for that?Lots of deep 25+m,currents,some nice nav.dives.
Just to prevent a lot of BS,get the AOW.

Have Fun overthere.

 

[spectrum]

If your OW training has left you feeling ready to make novice dives then by all means go make a few dozen.

With those dives under you belt you will be much better able to get good benefit from your AOW course. Your will get much more out of your OW course in your more challenging home water

Go enjoy your vacation.

Pete

 

[MJI]

Thanks so much for your advices so far everyone - they're much appreciated.

A helpful member (Thanks Steph) has directed me to this thread too, which also has some good views : http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/new-divers-those-considering-diving/231545-aow.html

Sass, thanks for your post - I aint in a hurry, but as I dive infrequently, I wondered if it could be a good way to expand my skills in a controlled and meaningful way???

My thoughts are along the lines of building up confidence with the basics first, but I think it's always good to get opinions and advantages of others experiences and knowledge.

Again, I'm grateful to everyone for their input,

 

[spectrum]

300bar's comments gives me a little concern about your choice of novice destination. Be sure to ask plenty of questions before getting on a boat, dive within your limits and listen to the voice if says "this isn't right".

Have fun and dive safe!

Pete

 

[leapfrog]

Do the AOW before you leave the Maldives.You dive infrequently. If you move on to Rescue, I hope after having a whole load of dives, do it in the UK.