Referal dives

[DavidHickey]

I'm looking at a course that would allow me to take the dive training but it would not include the 4 certification dives. Any idea on average what a dive company would charge to take you out for the 4 dives? And is it a pretty common thing for a dive center? And after taking a course like this is there any time limit in which you have to get your dives in? I know the sooner the better, but I'm just wondering in a worst case scenario.

 

[jbd]

I'm looking at a course that would allow me to take the dive training but it would not include the 4 certification dives. Any idea on average what a dive company would charge to take you out for the 4 dives? And is it a pretty common thing for a dive center? And after taking a course like this is there any time limit in which you have to get your dives in? I know the sooner the better, but I'm just wondering in a worst case scenario.

I'm pretty sure there is a 6 month limit to get the referral done. Someone correct me on that or at least state your agency's requirements.

You would be paying for a boat($65 to $85) for two dives. May also need to pay for gear rental which can vary depending on where you go. There may be a referral fee paid to the shop that trained you and wrote the referral letter. $25 to $35 from what I have heard. Then there is the fee for the instructor/shop that certifies you--maybe $150 to $250.

Of course you have the expenses of the trip to wherever you go to get certified.

 

[idratherbediving]

ive never heard of getting certified this way. im not too sure i think it is a good idea unless it was absolutly necessary. it looks like you would be paying quite a bit more. also im not sure if you would get the same quality training as if you did your open water with the same classroom instructors; however, it might also be possible to gain even better training depending on the instructors. personally i am a supporter of my lds. that is where i go for most equipment and training. if you dont have one in your area or dont see the benefit of a lds then i understand.