Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: How long does it take to complete the open water certification process?
A: It normally takes 3-4 days which consists of 6-8 hours of classroom, 4-6 hours of pool skills and 4 open water dives completed at an outdoor site. There is an option for e-Learning which will complete the classroom portion online at your convenience.

Q: How long does the certification last?
A; Certification does not expire. However, we do recommend as does the certification agencies, taking a scuba review if you have not dove in over 12 months. A scuba review will refresh your skills as well as ensure your gear is in working order or in need of service.

Q: What all is included in the price for Open Water Certification?
A: Certification price includes all books, classroom materials, rental gear and pool fees at Kirby Creek Pool. It does not include park entry fees to dive sites.

Q: How many students are in a class?
A: At SI Scuba, we strive for our students to get the most out of their training. While we are allowed to have as many as 8 students per instructor, we have found that 4-6 makes a better learning environment for our students to obtain the best training available. We can add more students with the utilization of assistants but rarely will we do this. We will split the class and maintain a more personal experience. We will place family and friends in the same class. We do this from our learning experience from other stores. We have seen the downside of large classes and how little the student really learns. Since we strive to produce the best divers in the world we are always taking steps to make sure our students have an enjoyable experience and feel at home in the underwater world.

Q: What age can I start taking scuba lessons?
A: Certification can be obtained by any person 10 or older. The certification for all divers under the age of 15 is Junior Open Water Diver. The certification will automatically update to an Open Water when the diver reaches 15. We do offer a special program for children younger then 10 that will not result in certification but is a very good program designed to introduce scuba to children. Our philosophy is teach a child a hobby and open the door to imagination!

Q: How much will my personal gear (mask, fins, boots and snorkel) cost?
A: We have packages starting as low as $139.95 and can go up in excess of $500.00. Of course we recommend you buy gear that will match your needs depending on the type and how much diving you will be doing. We do not recommend buying gear packages made for snorkeling as they are not intended for scuba and will not propel you through the water with gear on. Many times students take the cheaper route of local sporting good stores and always find they wasted $100.00 on gear that will not work. The stores will not accept returns on gear that has been wet.

Q: Where will my training be conducted?
A: Depending on water temperature, we use different site. In the summer, we use Clear Springs Scuba Park, Athens Scuba Park Lake Murray or our very own private quarries near Milsap, Texas (about 20 minutes west of Ft. Worth). During cooler months, we use Aquarena Springs, Comal River or Balmorhea. Please see our list of dive sites for more information.

Q: How long has Surface Interval Scuba been in Business?
A: SI Scuba is in the ending months of its 8th year in business. It all started in 2002.

Q: What service do I need to have done to my gear?
A: There are many aspects to service of personal gear. First, regulators, BCDs and computers should be serviced by a qualified technician every year or in accordance with the manufactures specifications. Second is tanks and valves. These will need an annual inspection (called a viz) every year. They also will need a hydro static test every five years. If you are not sure what your gear needs, just give us a call and we will help you figure it out over the phone. Buyer beware: Tanks manufactured prior to 1988 are under scrutiny for metal failure causing tank failure and/or personal injury. There are many shops and air stations that WILL NOT fill these tanks. If you have questions about used tanks just give us a call and we can help you make an informed decision.

Q: Why do I want to scuba dive?
A: Scuba diving will open the doors to a whole new world. A world that only a small percent of people will ever see. It will introduce you to new friends, new places and new creatures you never knew existed. Scuba has brought many families closer in a sport and leisure hobby the entire family can enjoy. We have entire families of 5-6 that dive and take vacations every year with us. Diving is the most relaxing and rewarding activity you will find providing adventure and excitement you never knew of.