Frequently Asked Questions About
Scuba Classes
Why should I take my SCUBA course with MBT?
Don't be fooled by advertised "bargain priced" scuba courses that don't include books, admin fees, air fills, or equipment rentals. Some dive shops have to lure customers by deceptively advertising dive classes at "unbeatable prices", and then steadily charge additional fees as the course progresses. You may also find that the "low price" is available only if you meet a minimum purchase at their store.
At MBT Divers, we pride ourselves in being honest with our customers from the start. The cost of our open water certification course includes all Books, Instructor Fees, SCUBA Equipment rental, air fills, Log Book, Dive Tables and administrative Fees. Our students also receive a free 6 month subscription to "Dive Training" magazine.
Individual entry fees to parks and springs (typically $7-$20) are not included.
Most customers find that our course is a much better value overall.
What are the age limits for taking classes?
The minimum age for scuba training is 10 years old. There is no maximum age. Individual maturity and health concerns need to be taken into consideration.
I have a medical condition or I am taking prescription medication, can I learn to dive?
Because of the inherent risks associated with SCUBA diving and because it can be a physically demanding sport there are conditions that can prevent an individual from being able to dive. Individuals with certain medical conditions will be asked to have their doctor approve their participation in SCUBA training.
Do I have to take a swimming test?
A reasonable amount of swimming ability is needed in order to dive safely. All divers need to show that they are comfortable and able to safely perform basic tasks in the water. At the beginning of each pool session we conduct "warm up" drills and provide additional practice time if necessary.
Is there a written test?
At the end of each course there is a simple 50 question multiple choice knowledge review that is designed to reinforce the training the diver has already received.
What about Sharks?
There are sharks in the area, but it is very rare that divers encounter them. It is even more rare for new or student divers to see a shark during a dive. Sharks do not purposefully seek out humans, and most often will quickly depart the area long before a diver even sees them. If you do get to see one of these incredible creatures consider yourself lucky, most divers have never had the opportunity to see a shark in the open water.
How big are the classes?
Our Open Water SCUBA Classes have an average of 6 to 8 students. We strive to maintain a low student to instructor ratio in order to provide the highest quality of training possible.
What is the certification good for?
As an open water diver you will be certified to conduct dives in an open water environment. An open water dive is defined as any dive that maintains a clear and unobstructed path to the surface while staying above the recognized recreational depth limit of 130' *. As a certified diver you will be able to rent or purchase SCUBA equipment, receive air fills and service and participate on dive charters and travel.
How deep will I go / be certified to?
Training dives during the open water certification course are limited to a maximum of 60'. It is strongly recommended that if you plan to do a significant amount of diving deeper than 60' that you complete the Advanced open water SCUBA course.
What if I miss a class?
We understand that our students have busy schedules and often have conflicts arise on short notice. With our self-paced schedule missing a class is never a problem! We are as flexible as you need us to be in order to make your diving experience enjoyable and fun.
How long does basic scuba certification last?
Your openwater scuba certification is good for life. If you go for an extended period without diving, we do strongly recommend that you complete a refresher course before diving again. "Extended periods" vary between indiviuals.
What if I travel outside of the local area?
All of our certifications are recognized by dive shops, resorts, and charters throughout the world.
If I start my classes somewhere else, can I complete my open water dives with MBT?
We will be happy to complete the openwater portion of your training through the "Universal Referral" program. It doesn't matter under which agency you begin your training, we can complete your course!
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3920 Barrancas Ave
Pensacola, Florida 32507
(850) 455-7702
GPS Coordinates N30:23.393 / W87:16.220
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