Taking the plunge and signing up for your Open Water Diver course is exciting — and maybe a little nerve-wracking if it’s your first time. But don’t worry: the course is designed to build your confidence, skills, and knowledge step by step, so you’ll be dive-ready and safe in no time. Here’s a clear idea of what to expect along the way.
1. Knowledge Development (Theory)
Before you even get wet, you’ll start with some classroom or online theory. Don’t panic — it’s not a test you’ll fail, just take your time and take in all the fresh knowledge. You’ll learn the basics of:
- How scuba gear works
- Safety rules and best practices
- How pressure affects your body underwater
- Marine life awareness and conservation
You’ll also cover essential skills like planning a dive, monitoring your air, and how to handle potential issues. Most courses offer flexible online modules, so you can study at your own pace.
2. Confined Water Dives (Pool or Shallow Water)
Next comes the fun part: getting in the water! Confined water dives take place in a pool or shallow area, where you will practice a bunch of skills. Here are some ofthem to give you an idea of what to expect:
- Breathing through a regulator
- Clearing your mask
- Controlling your buoyancy
- Sharing air with a buddy
This is where you start feeling what it’s like to move underwater and get comfortable with your equipment in a safe environment.
3. Open Water Dives
Once you’re confident in confined water, it’s time for real-world practice. Open water dives usually take place over a couple of days, in calm, shallow locations at first. Here, you’ll:
- Apply the skills you practised in the pool
- Navigate underwater and maintain buoyancy
- Experience marine life firsthand
- Build confidence in different conditions
Your instructor will be with you every step of the way, guiding you through each skill and making sure you feel safe and supported.
4. Assessments and Certification
Your skills and knowledge will be assessed throughout the course, usually via practical checks and a final knowledge review. Don’t worry — it’s all about demonstrating competency, not perfection. Once complete, you’ll receive your Open Water Diver certification, opening up a whole new world of diving adventures!
Gear and Preparation Tips
When it comes to gear, there’s no need to rush into buying everything before you know what suits you best. The course will introduce you to all the basics and give you a feel for different equipment, so you can see what you actually like and need.
That said, having your own mask and snorkel is incredibly helpful — it ensures comfort, hygiene, and familiarity, plus you can take them on holidays and future dives. Check out our guide on How To Choose the Best Mask for tips.
Here’s your go-to basic setup for an Open Water course:
- Mask & Snorkel: Essential for comfort and confidence underwater. Your own mask is recommended.
- Exposure Protection: Wetsuit of suitable thickness for the water temperature, plus booties if needed.
- Fins: Rental fins are fine for the course, but fit and comfort matter if you get your own later.
- BCD (Buoyancy Control Device): Helps you stay neutrally buoyant and carry your tank.
- Regulator: Your breathing apparatus underwater.
- Dive Weights & Tank: Used to offset your buoyancy and supply air.
- Dive Computer: Tracks your depth and time to help you dive safely; instructors will guide you on usage.
The shop should be able to provide all the gear you need for your course, so don’t stress about buying everything upfront. Once you’ve tried it out, you’ll have a much better idea of what suits you for future adventures.
👉 Check out our New Diver Collection to see what’s recommended for Open Water students.
Diving in the UK
If you’re taking your Open Water course in the UK, the skills portion will most likely take place in a pool — a controlled, comfortable environment to practise breathing, buoyancy, and basic skills. Once you’re confident, your first open water dives are usually in quarries, lakes, or sheltered coastal spots. Water tends to be cooler and visibility can vary, so a drysuit or wetsuit of suitable thickness plus booties and hood will help you stay comfortable.
Flexible Course Options
While a typical Open Water course might be completed over around three consecutive days — especially if you’re combining it with a holiday or travel trip — there’s also a more flexible option if you’re doing it locally in the UK. Many dive schools allow you to spread the course out over several weeks, with weekend sessions or evening theory classes. This makes it easy to fit around your day-to-day schedule while still gaining all the skills and confidence you need to become a certified diver.
Enjoy the Experience!
An Open Water course is as much about building confidence as it is about learning skills. Take your time, ask questions, and enjoy the new perspective underwater. Before long, you’ll be diving safely and comfortably — and planning your next adventure!
