I had a really great time at Epcot this year, since my family could see me. Worth the $180 though I wouldn't go again soon. The Long Beach aquarium does have a program, but it's ~$300, and the Mandalay Bay in Vegas is something like $1000 for a couple. I was interested that Disney didn't equip us with alternate second stages. Even Discover Scuba had them, where I did it. It's only 25 feet / 8 meters to the hard bottom, and you have a buddy plus several DMs for a group of 16 people, so I guess they figure it's acceptable risk. Funny that Scripps wanted all the gear, though maybe they can afford to be choosy.
I was shocked that Steinhard Aquarium (in San Francisco's Academy of Sciences) has a volunteer diver program that requires, among a two-page list of requirements:
● Rescue level dive certification from a recognized certification agency such as NAUI, PADI or SSI.
● Minimum of 50 logged dives with at least six dives completed within the last 12 months. Preferred cold water diving experience.
● Be able to commit to 2 dive shifts a month on a standing schedule for at least one year.
● Possess current healthcare provider-level CPR/AED, First Aid, and Oxygen provider certifications.
● Possess and maintain current DAN insurance.
And with all that, they aren't even taking applicants! Obviously a popular volunteer activity.