Recommendation for dive classes in Manhatten?

[cbborromeo]

There are two places that I've dealt with in the past. Both places will provide solid training. Ditto on Steve's problems with Pan Aqua, but you'll find that with many local shops.

Pan Aqua - link is above

Village Divers

 

[divad]

I like the owner/instructor at Stingray Divers in Brooklyn. They're DIR friendly. If you want colorful stuff, go to Pan Aqua.

 

[jpcpat]

I 've done most of my training with Adventure Scuba. While earning my DM, I helped teach with some of the instructors and was even more impressed. I'll almost surely do my IDc with them. Great instructors and no high pressure sales pitch.

If you want a rundown on a particular instructor, PM me

http://www.adventurescubany.com/

 

[Contrast]

HI! I got my fiance hooked on diving through a "dive experience" in the Caribbean and now he wants to get certified. Anyone have a recommendation for a great instructor in Manhatten? Or at least in NYC? Thanks, I'm looking forward to blowing lots of bubbles with him in the future!

I took my classes in Manhattan and you should read my thread regarding a dive shop in Mahattan that I went through -- Scuba Network
http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=183746

Needless to say I do not use that shop for anything anymore. I will be using Empire Divers on 81st and 2nd for all future classes.

 

[WeekendDiver]

Village divers has a deal where you can come back to the pool as many times as you want to - even after you've passed the required stuff. It's a good option to have extra water time. Especially for a beginner it's valuable.
www.villagedivers.com

 

[HenrikBP]

I'll 2nd or 3rd the recommendation for Panaqua. Peter M does a very nice and thorough class in the adjoining pool. I took the 5 evening course, which left plenty of time to cover theory as well as a good amount of pool time. Peter also offered I could get pool time whenever they're teaching classes.

I finished the class about a month ago and was very happy with the class, the shop, positive attitude etc.

Their prices on gear are a tad on the high side, but if you buy all your basic gear for the class from them, you can exchange any and all of it for any reason at all during the time you're doing classes with them. You will also get $50 refund on the price of the class. I thought that was well worth the extra cost - being quite new to this.

Oh, and I actually bought an Atomic mask from them - and Atomic Split fins. I guess that makes me a stroke

Henrik

 

[RJP]

I did my DM and my boyfriend did his OW class with Pan Aqua

Wow, that was pretty nice of you and your boyfriend! (Most DMs would be happy with a $10 tip.)