Expert: John Gump - 4/23/2010

Question
Do the dive shops give lessons? Are they able to get you the license in a day or 2? Thanks

Answer
Hi Linda - thanks for your question.  Yes, the dive shops do offer certification classes.  However it's a longer process than a day or 2.  Typically, a PADI or NAUI basic open water certification is a 3 day event and can get pretty expensive in the islands.  I'd say it's up to $400-$500.  If you're able to do it in the states before you go that'll save some money.  

However, you do have another option if you want to try diving while there.  You can sign up for a "resort course".  This is usually about $100-$120 and is done in one day.  You'll get a quick course in diving principles and safety, do some pool diving as practice and then you'll be guided on 1 or 2 open water dives in the sea.  It is not a certification however.  You might want to ask around to see if you did the resort course and then decided to get certified afterwards if the fees/experience on your resort course would count toward a full certification.  

A couple of the dive shops I can recommend are Bob Soto's (This is the guy that started the diving industry in Cayman 50 yrs ago.  I've met him and he's a wonderful man), and Don Fosters Dive Center.  There are so many dive shops there but these two are the ones I've had the best service from.  I tend to stear clear of Red Sail sports because they are way over priced and associated with the hotels.  My wife had such a bad experience doing a resort course years ago with the instructor at Red Sail that halfway through she decided not to do the dives.  

I hope this helps you out!

Have fun and remember, "take only pictures, leave only bubbles"

John