Scuba Lessons

[gosaints2006]

Has anyone taken the Scuba lessions on board? We are cruising on Freedom of the Seas in January. What type of certification is it and what does it allow you to do?

 

We did "Discover Scuba" on out last cruise and looking for more.

[jerick]

I have not taken the lessons (so why am I answering this???), BUT I did look into it on the Explorer of the Seas about 2 years ago. I believe the ship-based course is affiliated with PADI. If I remember correctly, the course can get you a basic certification, but not a full "open water" certification, which requires more studying and dives than would be practical on a 1 week cruise. With the basic certification, I believe you can participate in "certified diver" excursions, but have to have a professional diver with you on the dive.

 

The price at the time was around $200-225, which was comparable to prices of shore-based schools.

 

Jeff

[JJSMaine]

I took a refresher course on my AOS cruise a few years ago. I do not remember the cost, but it was on the afternoon of the first sea day on the way to Aruba. I have had my YMCA diver card since the 70's, but hadn't been under in a few years and the refresher was cheap ($45??). Although this was a group class, I was the only one to show up. The instructor was good, and the equipment and operation are very good. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend

taking the course.. Diving is an awesome experience that you just can't simulate.

 

I think you get a padi cert when you finish the course, but I'm not sure...???

 

The diving in St Martin and St Thomas is no where near as good as Aruba and Curacao.