Bob DBF
Contributor
I agree with the underwater nav part. But for deep diving, by deep, AOW means beyond 60ft, right? Say 60-100ft, I think what you learn in GUE/UTD entry level classes, ie. dive planning, gas planning, ascent procedure, emergency procedure, ... will be at least as good if not better than an average AOW, unless OP find a very good instructor. This is apart from the essential skill refinement you receive.
The problem is that the OP needs a card that will allow him to deep dive on a boat that has a zero tolerance stand on diving below the recommended limit of your certification. GUE and UTD may very well be fine classes, however they will have him sitting on the boat instead of diving.
Bob
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The day I can't dive anymore, I will really need some other good reasons to stay alive. DarkAbyss