#11
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I think for most people, the Open Water is sufficient as most people don't dive without dive masters. I think furthering certification is a good idea for people who go on dive trips where they may be going in a group without any dive masters. There really isn't a lot of extra knowledge in the Advanced course. I think for many people though, taking the Deep Diver course is probably a good idea because many dive masters will take Open Water divers beyond the 60 ft limitation of the Open Water. I'm a big ole chicken, so there's no way in hell I would go beyond 60 ft without the extra training.
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#12
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I did mine at ocean pro divers for $280 with a Groupon. I paid an additional $380 for the dry suit certification and a 6 month rental package. Totally worth it.
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#13
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#14
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Kidding aside, the place we're planning to go is Zamami, an hour's boat ride from Naha, Okinawa. Has anyone dived there or around there? Thank you everyone for your suggestions and advice! |
#15
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I buy lots online (don't tell OPD ). You can save lots of money that way, even with the current exchange rates. Leisure Pro is a very good online dealer and Amazon has some good deals too. And there's lots of great deals on used gear when you'e ready to start getting some. The Facebook BC Divers Buy and Sell group is a good one.
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#16
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I say buy from the dive shop. The same as I advocate buying from your LFS rather than online. Then when you're looking for advice or you run into issues or you're in a pinch they will be happy to help.
Ok good! If I can't do it, then I want to live vicariously through you! Last edited by Myka; 10-03-2015 at 10:17 PM. |
#17
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And I too am all about helping the local dive shops. But the reality is, they have ridiculously high margins on their products because they specialize. I've purchased used and new from every dive shop in the Vancouver area. I've done my part. ;D |
#18
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I'm all for supporting the local dive shops and they got a good chunk of my money for the courses (and will get more) and will also get my money for service and air fills etc. But I'm on a single dad budget and can't afford to buy a bunch of new gear at full Canadian retail prices. So I save where I can buying online or getting deals on used gear from other divers so I can enjoy an activity that I love.
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#19
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#20
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For mask/snorkel, any particular brands/models that you guys would recommend/avoid?
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