Don't know the difference between SSI, PADI and NAUI

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gjenks

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I about to become certified, as a Diver, been waiting several years, I have been snorkeling since the mid sixties (1966) not my sixties. I am confused by the differant agencies. I had talked with PADI, SSI, and MAUI instructers and want to know who to become certified with, or if it makes a differance..Gary
 
Hi Gary:

Virtually all of the recognized dive certification agencies have a set of minimum training standards that they have agreed to, but they do vary in how they apply those standards and in how they exceed (or don't exceed) the minimum requirements.

Talking to different instructors is a very good idea. While there are differences between the agencies, there can also be MAJOR differences between instructors and how they adhere to, ignore, or exceed their certification agency's standards. Finding an instructor that you're comfortable with is a very good idea.

Bill
 
Originally certified with YMCA, I also hold certifications at various levels with NAUI, PADI, NASDS, SSI, IANTD, and NSS-CDS.
In order of importance, you should look for:
1. A good instructor with whom you are comfortable. At your age you will likely be more comfortable with an older instructor (there are plenty - I'm still very actively teaching at 52 - almost 53) who's more likely to have tips & tricks up his sleeve to overcome common "age" problems (that we needn't discuss).
2. A good dive shop with which the instructor works. Having a place to go where they know you and every piece of diving equipment you own or use is way, way more valuable than the few bucks you may save "shopping around." A good shop will let you try gear before you buy, sponsor guided trips to great locations and generally provide any level of hand-holding you may want or need.
3. Agency. My personal preference for open water training is SSI, all other things being equal, but, as I and others have said, a good instructor is *the thing.*
Rick
 
Seems Like I spured quite a response, thank you all, this has been a very enlightening day. This is a great site. thanks
 
Gary,
This is just my 2 cents worth, but if I had to do it again, I would select the agency that teaches the most skills, not just the minimum requirements (or the cheapest). That way you won't have to learn them on your own during your experiences. Then after you have selected an agency then search out an instructor that you are comfortable with.

Sometimes the instructor you choose & the equipment you choose are at different shops, but that shouldn't matter, your training comes first. When you get ready to buy gear come back to this fourm & you will get a wealth of advice & knowledge befor you spend the big bucks.

Just my 2 cents worth.

 
Hi Gary,

I posted this on the New divers... forum yesterday:

I was certified in Los Angeles in 1970 by the LA County Underwater Unit. The course was very good and I became a reasonably competent diver. I was recertified with my 12 year old son in 1997 by PADI on Grand Cayman. This was an interesting experience for me and was a very good course for my son. He has become a very competent diver and a great buddy. My son and I have had several additional good experiences with PADI training. I have had no experience with other training agencies.

I would be willing to bet that there are far greater differences between various instructors and classes than there are between intitial certification standards of the major agencies, despite the incredibly compulsive listing by Walter. Do your homework, choose a good instuctor, get a good intitial education and then go diving with continuing education as you see fit.

Best of luck in finding an instructor that works out well for you

Good diving, Craig
 
LOL...I didn't catch that the first time I read it...that's what I get for posting without my morning cup 'o Joe.

That is pretty darned funny, actually...
 
https://www.shearwater.com/products/perdix-ai/

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