New here!

[mzlldr]

Hi
I'm just starting out and looking to get certified. Can someone tell me is one organization better than the others? I've been talking to a Dive Shop who is with SSI, but I just don't know which one is preferable.
Thanks

 

[diversteve]

For basic certification any recognized agency will be fine. They all do similar training and issue c-cards that are recognized worldwide.

What's really more important is the instructor you choose. Here's some info about that:

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/ne...ng/287780-how-find-excellent-scuba-class.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/ne.../166469-what-consider-new-student-diving.html

You might also ask for instructor recommendations in the regional forum for your area:
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/mid-west-region/

 

[mzlldr]

Thank you diversteve. That get's me going in the right direction.

 

[tstormdiver]

Look more for the quality in the instructor, rather than agency. There are good & bad in any agency. Interview your potential instructor. One thing I would personally look at is the time you will spend in the water during the course,... that is 99% of what makes a diver. Also look for an instructor that encourages repetition of skills. The basic skills need to be second nature. Ask the instructor what they do in the event that you might encounter some difficulty with one or some skills. No likely, but it is possible. There are many instructors out there, some excellent, some,.... well,.. not so much. Take your time & research a little.