Try Dive and Open Water Courses:

We are pleased to be able to offer active members of sub aqua opportunities to participate in a variety of Open Water Courses as well as Try Dives.

Try Dive- £35

A perfect introduction to scuba diving, this one-session experience takes place in a swimming pool under the guidance of a certified instructor. It’s a safe and fun way to get a taste of the underwater world and learn basic diving skills. No prior experience is needed, and all equipment will be provided.

Open Water Diver Course

The Open Water Diver Course is the first step to becoming a certified scuba diver, allowing you to dive independently with a buddy to a depth of 18 meters (or 60 feet). This comprehensive course includes both classroom and practical sessions. You'll learn key scuba skills and dive theory, practice in a pool or confined water, and complete four open water dives in Stoney Cove. By the end of the course, you’ll earn a globally recognized certification from either SSI or PADI, depending on your chosen program. A £200 deposit is required to secure your spot, with the remaining balance due before the course begins.

Open Water (Referral) – £300 with SSI, £400 with PADI

The Open Water Referral course includes five pool sessions and comprehensive theory lessons. This option allows you to complete all classroom and pool training locally, and then finish your open water dives at a destination of your choice. It's an excellent choice for those going abroad and planning to dive while traveling.

Open Water (Full) – £630 with SSI, £730 with PADI

Become a certified Open Water Diver with this complete course, which includes five pool sessions, all necessary theory, and your open water dives. By the end of this training, you’ll be qualified to dive independently with a buddy to a depth of 18 meters (60 feet).

Open Water (+Drysuit) – £830 with SSI, £975 with PADI

If your planning on learning to dive in the UK, we highly recommend open water with drysuit.

Ideal for those wanting to dive in colder waters, this course includes six pool sessions, in-depth theory, and open water dives completed while wearing a drysuit. You’ll learn how to manage and dive safely in a drysuit, which keeps you warm and dry. This comprehensive option gives you both the Open Water and Drysuit certifications.

Please note for all open water courses, you will be required to pay an initial deposit of £200.  

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Please note that your membership information will be used in conjunction with Essex Sport (University of Essex) purely for the purpose of providing access to required facilities and data analysis. Your data will not be shared with anyone else or used for marketing purposes. Memberships are uploaded to the Essex Sport system manually and so it may take up to 5 working days before you are able to book onto your session via the Essex Sport app and attend training sessions.

Should you have any problems please email blades@essex.ac.uk