Start scuba diving

You’re about to take your first dive, and you still have a lot of questions

The most important element of a diving course is the instructor, because he will lead you in all the experiences that you will have, and it is important to have a good relationship with him. He should be a professional and ready to help you in any way you need. So choose well.

Then, in dealing with the school you will find out about prices, timetables, the weather you will have during the course, who the instructor will be and how the course will be organized.

To take a diving course, you have to fill out the enrollment documents, which usually consist of the following:

– Your personal details: Don’t forget to provide your address and e-mail so they can send you the certificate.

– Medical exam, or form where you indicate that you are free of any disease that might make you ineligible for diving. It is mandatory, and it relates to current illnesses that would be incompatible with diving. In Spain, it costs about 35 euros if you have to request a medical exam, and it takes about an hour. Some countries do not require a medical exam.

– Waiver, where you indicate that you are solely liable for any accident or negligence on your part. Signing the waiver unlawful in some countries. In the European Union, for example, the waiver is not valid and students should not be forced to sign it.

– Document of understanding of safe diving practices explaining the same thing as in the previous section.

– Diving insurance application: It is mandatory in Spain and highly recommended to always dive with an insurance policy. It usually costs six euros and you can usually take out the insurance at the school in just five minutes. It may not be required in other countries.

After the paperwork

In order to first gain an understanding of the incredible world of diving, students usually start by watching introductory videos or attending talks by the instructor before getting into the water.

You may also be asked to fill in an initial questionnaire or test to ensure that you have perfectly understood the key safety information before doing anything in the water.

All gear is usually included in the price of a course. But if you carry your own gear (complete and not the odd item) the course may be more economical.

Once you’ve completed all these documents, and you have the introductory information on diving under your belt, you’re ready for anything. Have fun!

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