Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions that aren't answered here please do not hesitate to email us.

Why do people want to dive?
Two thirds of the surface of our planet is covered by water. The best way of experiencing this incredible environment at first hand is to equip ourselves with SCUBA gear. Diving also attracts a wide range of warm friendly people, of all ages and from all walks of life. This enables divers to meet and share their own wonderful experiences and adventures of, quite literally, new worlds.

What do divers breathe?
It is a common misconception that divers' tanks are filled with pure oxygen, not so! In fact most divers' tanks are actually filled with compressed air - the very same that you and I are breathing right now.

What does SCUBA mean?
Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus

How old do I have to be to learn to dive?
The minimum age is 10 for the Open Water course, 8 for a Bubblemaker trydive experience; and there is no maximum age.

Isn't diving dangerous?
No. Statistics show that diving is one of the safest sports, providing you remain within the simple PADI guidelines taught to you.

Do I have to be a strong swimmer to learn to dive?
No, as long as you can swim comfortably and tread water you will be able to learn to dive safely

Is diving expensive?
Initially diving may appear relatively expensive. However, when compared to a life long adventure that is different every time and enables you to visit parts of the world you would never normally see, then it really isn't. Once you have passed your Open Water Course you can hire kit for as little as the cost of a nite out, and we can assist you to purchase second hand kit. Furthermore, the cost of entering your local dive site for a 'day' is around £10 and to have your air cylinder refilled £2.50. A lifetime of experience can be gained by simply forgoing two or three pints at your local!

Do I need to have my own equipment?
No. Scubadive will provide all course materials and equipment you will require to learn to dive.

Can I dive on my own?
NO! As a PADI diver you will be taught the SAFE diving practices, this means you will NEVER dive solo. However, if you do not have a partner to learn to dive with or accompany you on a course, Scubadive can put youin touch with a dive buddy.

I want to learn to dive but do not have a buddy to dive with?
This is not a problem. Scubadive has a wide range of divers in its club, so finding a buddy to partner up with won't be a problem.

I have an ailment which I think may prevent me from diving, what should I do if I want to learn to dive?
You should seek advice from your doctor before commencing a course. As long as your doctor gives written consent you will be able to take up diving.
Check out the Medical Statement for more information.

Can people with disabilities learn to dive?
Yes, as long as you have written clearance from you doctor prior to booking a course and can master basic dive skills.

Where are the training courses held?
The classroom and pool sessions usually take place near Tamworth, while the open water dives are held at Dosthill; but we can accomodate most wishes!

Will I be able to dive abroad with my certification?
Yes, PADI is the largest diver training organisation in the world.

What do I get at the end of my course?
As well as the manual, dive tables and log book; you will also receive a certificate of successful completion, a PIC (Personal Identification Card) which will be sent to PADI to register you as a qualified diver. This is returned to you as proof of your dive qualification.

I want to learn to dive but do not live by the coast, are there any places to dive inland?
Yes, there are several dive sites located around the UK, with exotic wild life and interesting wrecks to visit.

I am currently a diver with another organisation, can I cross over to PADI courses?
Yes, although the level of cross-over depends on individual circumstances.

Do Scubadive provide discounts on group bookings?
Yes, there is no set rate, this is negotiable at the time of booking.

Can I go straight from an Open Water Diver to the Advanced Course?
Yes, PADI encourage the new diver to acquire further dive skills under the supervision of a PADI professional, the Advanced Course is specifically designed for this.