PADI Scuba Dive Instructor

About SCUBA

Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus

With the proper equipment, knowledge and skills, diving is both safe and easy. You can explore some aquatic environments with little more than a mask, snorkel and a pair of fins as a "free diver", or you can make deeper, longer visits with use of scuba equipment.

Scuba Equipment is your life-support equipment while under water.

Basic Equipment

* Tank - filled with air or nitrox mix

* Regulator / Octopus - transfers air/nitrox to your mouth from tank

* Console - holds depth gage, compass, time piece, computer

* BCD (Buoyancy Control Unit) - vest that fills with air from tank to

help you float, or create the correct buoyancy for you

* Weight Belt or Integrated Weight System in you BCD

* Wet Suit - keeps you warm, protects you from environment,

made out of neoprene, made in different thickness

* Dry Suit - keeps you very warm in cold water temperatures,

made of rubber, trilaminate, shell, or neoprene

* Skin - light weight wet suit

* Mask, Fins, Snorkel, Boots, Gloves

Choosing and using your gear is part of the fun of diving. We will help you find the right equipment. Each piece of equipment performs a different function so that collectively, it adapts you to the underwater world.

What Do I Need to Get Started?

What equipment to buy? Consult with your PADI Dive Center. As a minimum, you want your own mask, fins and snorkel when you start diving in the PADI Open Water Diver course. These have a personal fit, and we will help you choose ones that have the fit and features best suited to you.

What kind of gear you will need depends on conditions where you dive: Tropical, Temperate, Cold, Technical

How Do I Know What the Best Gear Is?

Easy. There is no best gear. But, there is the best gear for you. Scuba equipment comes in a wonderful variety that accommodates a broad range of needs, interests and sizes. Find gear that best matches your preferences, fit and budget.

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