How To Choose Your Dive Centre

We are frequently asked by new divers how they can confidently choose a safe dive centre when they go to a new destination, so here are some suggestions if this is something that worries you too:

PADI Dive Centre Status

In advance you can check the PADI status of a centre. 5 star CDC, 5 star IDC and 5 star Centres all have the full range of facilities for the recreational diver (CDC and IDC refer to the professional training available). Rather confusingly for a title that sounds so impressive, 5 star Gold Palm Resorts have fewer facilities, for example there may not be a classroom or a shop.

Go to PADI resorts for a list of options in your destination.

Alternatively select a brand that stands for quality such as Oxygene International.

Have a look around

Once at the dive centre, trust your first impressions. Does the centre appear organised, tidy and well cared for? Are the staff friendly and welcoming? Very importantly, do they ask to see your certification? You are equally entitled to ask to see their certification if you haven’t already checked on-line. They should be able to show you evidence of the teaching status of the staff plus insurances.

Ask to see the equipment - even an absolute novice can spot worn out kit or rusty tanks. If you get as far as kitting up, don’t accept air that has a strange or bad taste – it should be drier than the atmosphere but tasteless. Don’t be embarrassed to walk away if you have any doubts – it’s your safety and your enjoyment that’s at stake.

Of course if you have paid in advance it could prove difficult to walk away – we would recommend you only pay in advance if you are already confident about the centre, perhaps through personal recommendation.

Are you insured?

Beware if they are prepared to take you diving to a depth that exceeds your training. Whilst it may seem tempting, you should remember that your insurance will only be valid to the depth you are trained to dive to.

Oxygen, First Aid & Boat cover

Ask if oxygen and first aid will be available on all dives, and who is responsible for its administration. It's no good taking this life-saving equipment anywhere if the necessary training in its use has not been undertaken.

If you are diving from a boat you should always expect a fully qualified boat handler to be onboard at all times. Again, do not be afraid to ask to see licences.

Finally, be a little sceptical about the website – you can’t believe everything you read!