Open Water Course

PADI Open Water Diver / NAUI Scuba Diver Course

Upon completion of this entry level diving course, students will receive a lifetime internationally recognized SCUBA diving licence. At Reef Encounters, we can offer this course in both the PADI and NAUI teaching methods - the two most recognised and respected diving organisations in the world.

Coupled with the in-water training and equipment instruction, divers will learn the basic knowledge on the physics and physiology of diving and how to be a safe and responsible diver. Courses are conducted mainly from beach locations, but they can also be conducted on the boat. Check out the different courses to see what is right for you.

The Open Water / Scuba Diver certification course consists of

1. Knowledge Development sessions – Classroom work including Quizzes and a Final Exam plus homework!

2. Confined Water Dives – Underwater skill practice in shallow water (Ocean or Pool sessions available).

3. Open Water Dives – Skill performance in the open ocean (max depth 18m/60 ft)

Shortly after making a reservation with us, we will send you a textbook so that you can get started on the required reading and chapter reviews before arriving in Okinawa. COMPLETION OF ALL CHAPTER REVIEWS IS REQUIRED BEFORE ARRIVAL. For those students with an internet connection you can complete all academics on-line, including the final exam.

Apart from all the classroom work and dive theory, the main point of diving is to have fun in the ocean! With diving locations just 30 seconds away from our shop, students will be introduced to a fabulous underwater dive site filled with tropical fish, colourful soft corals, and crystal clear water. If students excel in the confined water skill sessions, we can complete the remainder of the course in the Kerama or Chiibishi Island groups.

At Reef Encounters, we have a truly international team of instructors who are fluent in both English and Japanese. All courses can be completed in English and Japanese.

3 Day Open Water course *4 days are recommended

At Reef Encounters, we teach students how to dive in a minimum of three days. Completing the course in 4 days is very popular, however.  An extra day allows us to stretch out the classroom and underwater training sessions - giving divers a less intensive schedule, longer dive time underwater, and shorter days (approximately 6-7 hours). In addition, given the constantly changing weather in Okinawa, scheduling four days for an Open Water course is a safe bet!