In the world of scuba diving, OW certification (Open Water Diver Certification) is the first step into the marine world for novice divers. Whether you want to explore colorful coral reefs or plan to get up close and personal with marine life, getting an OW certification is a must. So, what is OW certification? How to obtain it? What advantages does it have? This article will give you a detailed explanation.

1. What is an OW certificate?

The OW certificate is an entry level diver certification issued by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors International), SSI (School of Scuba Diving International) or other diving organizations. Divers with OW certification can dive in open water (e.g., oceans, lakes, etc.) around the world, up to a maximum depth of 18 meters, without the need to be accompanied by a professional instructor.

2. Training content of the OW certificate

To obtain an OW certificate, you will need to complete a series of theoretical studies and practical training. Generally, the course consists of the following parts:

(1) Theoretical courses

• Learn the fundamentals of scuba diving, such as buoyancy control, breathing techniques, and underwater communication.
• Understand how diving equipment is used and maintained.
• Learn what to do in an emergency, such as how to deal with equipment malfunctions and how to communicate with your dive partner.

(2) Calm water training

• Practice basic skills such as surface mirror drainage and neutral buoyancy control in a pool or calm sea.
• Familiarize yourself with how to properly assemble and don dive gear.

(3) Open Water Internship

• Proficiency in scuba diving with a minimum of 4 open water dives in a real environment such as an ocean or lake.
• Learn how to adjust buoyancy in different underwater environments to ensure safe diving.

Upon completion of the above training and passing the exam, the student will be awarded the OW certificate and officially become a qualified Open Water Diver.

3. Advantages of obtaining an OW certificate

(1) Global Certification, Swimming in the Underwater World

The OW certificate is an internationally recognized diving certification that, once earned, allows you to dive freely at dive sites around the world without additional training.

(2) No instructor accompanied, free to explore

Compared to Discover Scuba Dive, the OW certificate allows you to explore the underwater world on your own with a dive buddy without a professional instructor and enjoy a more free diving experience.

(3) Unlocking higher level dives

The OW certification is the foundation to higher levels of diving certificates (e.g. Advanced Open Water Diver AOW, Nitrox Diver Nitrox, etc.), and with an OW certification you can continue to improve your diving skills and explore deeper and more exciting dive sites.

(4) Safer Diving Experience

In the OW course, you will master various emergency handling techniques, such as how to deal with low cylinder air supply, equipment failure, lost divers, etc., so as to reduce the risk of diving and ensure safety.

4. How do I enroll in an OW course?

(1) Selecting the right dive store

When choosing a dive center, it is recommended to choose a PADI or SSI certified 5-star dive center to ensure the quality of training and safety.

(2) Confirmation of course schedule

OW courses usually take 3-4 days to complete, so it is recommended to schedule in advance and make sure you are physically fit to dive.

(3) Preparation of personal equipment

Most dive stores will provide dive gear, but you can enhance your comfort by bringing your own mask, cold suit, and so on.

5. Concluding remarks

The OW certification is the first step into the world of scuba diving and the key to a more advanced diving adventure. Whether you want to dive Tioman or Langkawi in Malaysia, Coron Island in the Philippines or Koh Tao in Thailand, having an OW certificate will give you the freedom to explore the underwater world.

If you are interested in Open Water Diver course, you can contact TDB SunBeach, we provide professional PADI / SSI certification training to help you easily get your OW certificate and start your diving journey! 🌊🐠