Knowledge
What is the difference between PADI Scuba Diver and Open Water?
The PADI Scuba Diver certification allows you to dive to a maximum depth of 12 metres under the supervision of a PADI professional. The PADI Open Water Diver certification offers greater independence and allows you to dive to 18 metres with a buddy, without mandatory professional supervision. Specific restrictions apply to children under 15.
PADI Scuba Diver
This course is a shorter version of the PADI Open Water Diver course, available from age 10. It's ideal if you have limited time or prefer to progress gradually towards a more complete certification.
PADI Open Water Diver
This course teaches you the knowledge and skills needed to dive safely with a buddy, within the limits of your certification and experience.
What are the restrictions for children?
Divers under 15 receive a Junior Open Water Diver certification, with specific conditions:
- Ages 10–11: Maximum depth of 12 metres, accompanied by a certified parent or guardian, or a PADI professional.
- Ages 12–14: Maximum depth of 18 metres, accompanied by a certified adult.
- From age 15: The Junior certification can be upgraded to a standard Open Water Diver certification, without the age-related restrictions.
Can you upgrade from Scuba Diver to Open Water?
Yes! The PADI Scuba Diver certification is a first step towards becoming a PADI Open Water Diver. You can complete the remaining training later without having to start from scratch.
At Swiss Diving, if you purchase the upgrade course within one month of completing your Scuba Diver training with us, you benefit from a price equal to the difference between the two courses. You can then complete the additional training at a later date.
PADI Scuba Diver - PADI Open Water
This course is a shorter version of the PADI Open Water Diver course, available from age 10. It's ideal if you have limited time or prefer to progress gradually towards a more complete certification.
PADI Open Water Diver
This course teaches you the knowledge and skills needed to dive safely with a buddy, within the limits of your certification and experience.
What are the restrictions for children?
Divers under 15 receive a Junior Open Water Diver certification, with specific conditions:
- Ages 10–11: Maximum depth of 12 metres, accompanied by a certified parent or guardian, or a PADI professional.
- Ages 12–14: Maximum depth of 18 metres, accompanied by a certified adult.
- From age 15: The Junior certification can be upgraded to a standard Open Water Diver certification, without the age-related restrictions.
Can you upgrade from Scuba Diver to Open Water?
Yes! The PADI Scuba Diver certification is a first step towards becoming a PADI Open Water Diver. You can complete the remaining training later without having to start from scratch.
At Swiss Diving, if you purchase the upgrade course within one month of completing your Scuba Diver training with us, you benefit from a price equal to the difference between the two courses. You can then complete the additional training at a later date.
PADI Scuba Diver - PADI Open Water