SCUBA Referral Process

This page contains important information on completing Open Water scuba certification.

It is very important to us that our students make a smooth transition from our dive center to the referral dive center, so please read the following information very closely.  If you have any questions about your upcoming referral to a resort dive destination, then please contact us! 

The concept of a referral is to assist a student who has completed all or part of their classroom / pool training, and wishes to complete the four open water dives at another location.  Since there is absolutely no governing agency to regulate or monitor scuba activity the industry relies on professional courtesy.  Most all dive training agencies are professional by nature, but unfortunately you will encounter resorts and instructors who practice poor business tactics. 

Of the many training agencies that currently train SCUBA divers, most all agree that basic scuba certification is the same...clearing a mask is clearing a mask....So in this respect professional scuba agencies will endorse their instructors to accept students from any  internationally recognized training agency. 

You can start by doing as much research as you can on the resort location, and the dive center where you plan to complete your dives.  Ask questions in regards to what is included in your open water training dives: cost of training dives, shore or boat dives, what equipment is included (equipment recommendation), which agencies they accept referrals, and more....

Something important to remember is that SCUBA certification is a voluntary license, there is no government regulations nor is there any one agency that is required.  All resorts worldwide honor dive certification cards from any professional agency.   SCUBA diving is scuba diving! the card doesn't mater as much as the quality of your instruction and the quality of the facility that provided you with the activity.

If you experience difficulty working with a resort accepting your training, please contact us and we will intercede.  Also remember that resorts rely on business and you should remind them that you will take your business elsewhere!

Aquaventure Dive & Photo Center has produced a convenient referral packet for traveling students.  Although there is no charge for the Global Referral Form, students will need a log book and a certification process form that is submitted to PADI upon completion of training.  In addition we have included additional documents to assist the referral resort / instructor with your open water dives.  This packet is offered at a student discount price $35 during your open water training class / pool.