FAQ about Scuba Classes
Thank you for signing up for our scuba class. As you start this wonderful new sport, there are probably some questions you have about the class. We’ve tried to address the most commonly asked questions, but if you have any others, please feel free to contact us.
What do I need to bring to class?
The first session is an 'Orientation Class' which is classroom only. Please bring a writing pad to take notes on. During the orientation class, we will fill out all registration paperwork for NAUI, discuss snorkeling equipment needed for the course and cover basic information. For the second session onward, bring a swimsuit and a towel plus all snorkeling gear. Some people also like to bring a lock for the lockers to secure personal items. Sub-Aquatic Sports provides scuba equipment for this class (tanks, regulators, buoyancy compensator vests), however, snorkeling gear is much more personalized so you must provide your own. Snorkeling equipment includes a good fitting mask, fins, snorkel and a weight belt. Buy good equipment; it will last for years and also make sure you are properly fitted for these items. Diving on the most beautiful reef in the world isn't enjoyable if your mask is leaking or the fins hurt your feet. As a student, you will receive 15% off all snorkeling gear needed for this course.
The class textbook is available for purchase at the store. The cost ranges from $42 (textbook only) to $115 (Online Course) . Orders may be placed over the phone using a credit card for payment or by clicking this link. Your instructor can also deliver the book to class, simply call us to make such an arrangement, Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service at 269-968-8551.
What if I miss a class? Because each session covers essential information, you will need to complete the entire class. We realize that schedules change, so if you miss a session, please do the reading assigned. To make up the pool portion of the missed session, please contact your instructor directly and set up a time to complete the work. There may be an additional fee for a private pool session of $60, and is paid directly with the instructor. If you miss more than two sessions, you will need to retake the class to become certified.
What is NAUI?
NAUI stands for the National Association of Underwater Instructors. It is one of the oldest and largest scuba certification agencies in the United States. NAUI is recognized worldwide and your certification is good for life. NAUI’s training standards are the highest in the industry and you will find your course complete and thorough. Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service is the largest certification facility for NAUI in the mid-west. We have the most experienced staff in the area and our educational director has been teaching for over 40 years. Our standards are high and you are guaranteed a quality course.
What if I have asthma?
Lung disorders such as asthma and emphysema are contradictory to diving. If you have a mild case of asthma in which you do not need an inhaler, you may be able to dive. In such a case, you will need a doctor’s approval and verification. Doctor’s approval may also be needed for other medical reasons.
When do I get my certification card?
The certification card will allow you to rent equipment, dive on charter boats and get scuba tanks filled. After completing your open water dives, we will submit your registration work to NAUI. It will take approximately three weeks to process your card. If you are traveling immediately after completing your course, we can issue a temporary card until your actual card comes in.
What if I lose my card?
Replacement cards, name changes on cards and upgrade from Junior Certification to full certifications can be processed through the store. The cost is approximately $50.
What if I’m not in good shape?
You do not need to be a strong swimmer; however you do need to be comfortable in the water. Your first pool session will consist of a swimming evaluation. This is the most strenuous portion of the entire class. The evaluation will be used to determine everyone’s skill level, which will then allow for any course adjustment that may be needed. We are most impressed with people who know how to pace themselves. The evaluation consists of swimming pool laps, treading water, diving to the bottom of the pool, and an underwater swim. After the first session, the pool work is more mentally challenging than physically exerting. Humans instinctively hold their breath underwater, which can lead to serious problems while scuba diving. The skills taught during this course will break the breath holding instinct and allow you ample time to become familiar with the dive gear.
Is learning to dive easy?
Learning to dive is not hard but like learning any new skill; there are procedures and techniques that must be mastered. Your course will be comprised of two sections, the classroom/pool sessions and the open water training dives. First you will learn the “why” and “how” in class and put what you’ve learned into practice in the water. In class, such things as the effects of pressure changes, how to read and use the dive tables, underwater communications and navigation, dive trip planning, how the equipment works and much more will be covered. Next you’ll head to the pool where you’ll be taught how to adapt to the underwater world. You’ll use the equipment and gain practical experience in buddy-system procedures, problem management, equalization techniques and the many other components that make you a safe and confident diver. You’ll conclude your training with several open water dives. In effect, these dives are your final exam. Under your instructor’s supervision, you’ll put all that’s been learned into real world practice. At first it may seem like a lot to learn. Learning to dive can be a gratifying experience, so remember you’re not going to learn it all at once. By devoting a little effort you’ll become a safe and competent diver.
Is diving expensive?
Expensive is a relative term but when compared to the cost of purchasing a Jet Ski or downhill ski, scuba is actually quite affordable. For this class, the following in included: instruction fees, NAUI registration fees and certification cost, and use of scuba equipment for the pool portion of the class. Not included are textbook ($42 and up), snorkeling gear ($100-$375) and optional rental fees for scuba equipment for open water training ($75).
If you choose to purchase scuba gear, the price will vary depending on the type of diving you plan on doing. An infrequent, warm water diver may spend $999 on equipment while a cold-water, frequent diver may spend $1500-$2500. Remember, SASS also rents this equipment for those on a limited budget.
It is important to SASS that you understand the total cost for the class. No one likes “hidden expenses” so we try to be as thorough as possible in explaining the training process and expenses upfront. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.
What if I’m short on time?
If you’re on a tight schedule, we suggest taking our home-study program, and then complete our online course with private pool sessions. We can finish the pool work within a week while still allowing enough water time to make you a comfortable and knowledgeable diver.
How old do I have to be to dive?
Kids between 10-14 yrs. old can be certified as ‘Junior Scuba Diver’. Junior certification means that they must dive with a certified adult diver. Adult or regular scuba certification is given the age of 15 and older. IDEALLY, Sub-Aquatic Sports feels that kids should be at least 12 before taking this class. It is an age that they can better mentally handle the sport and thus, have more fun with the class. As much as we enjoy the underwater world and want to share it with everyone, our primary goal is keep everyone safe. Scuba diving is a deceivingly easy sport and problems can arise because of that. Young children may not full appreciate the underlying dangers if proper procedures are not followed nor are they mentally or sometimes physically capable of handling an emergency. For this reason, we ask the parents to consult Richard Sass, our head Instructor Trainer, before signing up any kids between the ages of 10-12.
Is there a maximum age? No! As long as you enjoy good health you can dive. We frequently certify people after retirement. Our oldest student began diving at 72 yrs young!
What are open water training dives?
In order to become a certified diver, you must complete two days (4 dives total) of diving in a “real” environment such as a lake or ocean. This will allow you a chance to acclimate to wetsuits, cooler water temperatures, less water visibility, etc. while still diving with your instructor. You have four options in completing these dives.
1) Join a scheduled group training dive weekend.
This is the most popular and economical way to complete your class. There are no additional instructional costs for these dives. Training dives are scheduled from late April to early November. They are held mostly on weekends. Your instructor will schedule one particular weekend for your class. If you cannot make this weekend, please call the store for an alternative date. There is an additional, optional rental fee for equipment of $75/weekend.
2) Take a Sub-Aquatic Sports group sponsored trip and complete training on location.
We offer trips from Canada to Australia. Please contact the store for our most current schedule. There is no extra instruction fee for completing the training dives. From our experience, people who take a dive vacation immediately after completing the course are most likely to stay in the sport. Seeing the beauty of a reef or the mystery of a shipwreck first hand can’t help but stimulate your love for the sport. There are additional, optional equipment rental fees.
3) If you already have a trip planned, you may obtain a referral card.
A referral card states Sub-Aquatic Sports has completed the class/pool portion of the course. You will need to find an instructor to complete the training dives at your vacation destination. This instructor will charge a fee. Sub-Aquatic Sports may be able to recommend instructors at various dive destinations. There are additional, optional equipment rental fees.
4) Private open water training.
If your schedule does not allow for any of the above listed options, you may complete your dives privately. Based around your schedule, we will give one-on-one instruction. You will still need to allow two days to complete the training. The cost for private open water instruction is $200. There are also additional, optional equipment rental fees.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us!
Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service 347 North Helmer Road - Battle Creek, MI 49037
Phone: 269-968-8551
Thank you for signing up for our scuba class. As you start this wonderful new sport, there are probably some questions you have about the class. We’ve tried to address the most commonly asked questions, but if you have any others, please feel free to contact us.
What do I need to bring to class?
The first session is an 'Orientation Class' which is classroom only. Please bring a writing pad to take notes on. During the orientation class, we will fill out all registration paperwork for NAUI, discuss snorkeling equipment needed for the course and cover basic information. For the second session onward, bring a swimsuit and a towel plus all snorkeling gear. Some people also like to bring a lock for the lockers to secure personal items. Sub-Aquatic Sports provides scuba equipment for this class (tanks, regulators, buoyancy compensator vests), however, snorkeling gear is much more personalized so you must provide your own. Snorkeling equipment includes a good fitting mask, fins, snorkel and a weight belt. Buy good equipment; it will last for years and also make sure you are properly fitted for these items. Diving on the most beautiful reef in the world isn't enjoyable if your mask is leaking or the fins hurt your feet. As a student, you will receive 15% off all snorkeling gear needed for this course.
The class textbook is available for purchase at the store. The cost ranges from $42 (textbook only) to $115 (Online Course) . Orders may be placed over the phone using a credit card for payment or by clicking this link. Your instructor can also deliver the book to class, simply call us to make such an arrangement, Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service at 269-968-8551.
What if I miss a class? Because each session covers essential information, you will need to complete the entire class. We realize that schedules change, so if you miss a session, please do the reading assigned. To make up the pool portion of the missed session, please contact your instructor directly and set up a time to complete the work. There may be an additional fee for a private pool session of $60, and is paid directly with the instructor. If you miss more than two sessions, you will need to retake the class to become certified.
What is NAUI?
NAUI stands for the National Association of Underwater Instructors. It is one of the oldest and largest scuba certification agencies in the United States. NAUI is recognized worldwide and your certification is good for life. NAUI’s training standards are the highest in the industry and you will find your course complete and thorough. Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service is the largest certification facility for NAUI in the mid-west. We have the most experienced staff in the area and our educational director has been teaching for over 40 years. Our standards are high and you are guaranteed a quality course.
What if I have asthma?
Lung disorders such as asthma and emphysema are contradictory to diving. If you have a mild case of asthma in which you do not need an inhaler, you may be able to dive. In such a case, you will need a doctor’s approval and verification. Doctor’s approval may also be needed for other medical reasons.
When do I get my certification card?
The certification card will allow you to rent equipment, dive on charter boats and get scuba tanks filled. After completing your open water dives, we will submit your registration work to NAUI. It will take approximately three weeks to process your card. If you are traveling immediately after completing your course, we can issue a temporary card until your actual card comes in.
What if I lose my card?
Replacement cards, name changes on cards and upgrade from Junior Certification to full certifications can be processed through the store. The cost is approximately $50.
What if I’m not in good shape?
You do not need to be a strong swimmer; however you do need to be comfortable in the water. Your first pool session will consist of a swimming evaluation. This is the most strenuous portion of the entire class. The evaluation will be used to determine everyone’s skill level, which will then allow for any course adjustment that may be needed. We are most impressed with people who know how to pace themselves. The evaluation consists of swimming pool laps, treading water, diving to the bottom of the pool, and an underwater swim. After the first session, the pool work is more mentally challenging than physically exerting. Humans instinctively hold their breath underwater, which can lead to serious problems while scuba diving. The skills taught during this course will break the breath holding instinct and allow you ample time to become familiar with the dive gear.
Is learning to dive easy?
Learning to dive is not hard but like learning any new skill; there are procedures and techniques that must be mastered. Your course will be comprised of two sections, the classroom/pool sessions and the open water training dives. First you will learn the “why” and “how” in class and put what you’ve learned into practice in the water. In class, such things as the effects of pressure changes, how to read and use the dive tables, underwater communications and navigation, dive trip planning, how the equipment works and much more will be covered. Next you’ll head to the pool where you’ll be taught how to adapt to the underwater world. You’ll use the equipment and gain practical experience in buddy-system procedures, problem management, equalization techniques and the many other components that make you a safe and confident diver. You’ll conclude your training with several open water dives. In effect, these dives are your final exam. Under your instructor’s supervision, you’ll put all that’s been learned into real world practice. At first it may seem like a lot to learn. Learning to dive can be a gratifying experience, so remember you’re not going to learn it all at once. By devoting a little effort you’ll become a safe and competent diver.
Is diving expensive?
Expensive is a relative term but when compared to the cost of purchasing a Jet Ski or downhill ski, scuba is actually quite affordable. For this class, the following in included: instruction fees, NAUI registration fees and certification cost, and use of scuba equipment for the pool portion of the class. Not included are textbook ($42 and up), snorkeling gear ($100-$375) and optional rental fees for scuba equipment for open water training ($75).
If you choose to purchase scuba gear, the price will vary depending on the type of diving you plan on doing. An infrequent, warm water diver may spend $999 on equipment while a cold-water, frequent diver may spend $1500-$2500. Remember, SASS also rents this equipment for those on a limited budget.
It is important to SASS that you understand the total cost for the class. No one likes “hidden expenses” so we try to be as thorough as possible in explaining the training process and expenses upfront. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.
What if I’m short on time?
If you’re on a tight schedule, we suggest taking our home-study program, and then complete our online course with private pool sessions. We can finish the pool work within a week while still allowing enough water time to make you a comfortable and knowledgeable diver.
How old do I have to be to dive?
Kids between 10-14 yrs. old can be certified as ‘Junior Scuba Diver’. Junior certification means that they must dive with a certified adult diver. Adult or regular scuba certification is given the age of 15 and older. IDEALLY, Sub-Aquatic Sports feels that kids should be at least 12 before taking this class. It is an age that they can better mentally handle the sport and thus, have more fun with the class. As much as we enjoy the underwater world and want to share it with everyone, our primary goal is keep everyone safe. Scuba diving is a deceivingly easy sport and problems can arise because of that. Young children may not full appreciate the underlying dangers if proper procedures are not followed nor are they mentally or sometimes physically capable of handling an emergency. For this reason, we ask the parents to consult Richard Sass, our head Instructor Trainer, before signing up any kids between the ages of 10-12.
Is there a maximum age? No! As long as you enjoy good health you can dive. We frequently certify people after retirement. Our oldest student began diving at 72 yrs young!
What are open water training dives?
In order to become a certified diver, you must complete two days (4 dives total) of diving in a “real” environment such as a lake or ocean. This will allow you a chance to acclimate to wetsuits, cooler water temperatures, less water visibility, etc. while still diving with your instructor. You have four options in completing these dives.
1) Join a scheduled group training dive weekend.
This is the most popular and economical way to complete your class. There are no additional instructional costs for these dives. Training dives are scheduled from late April to early November. They are held mostly on weekends. Your instructor will schedule one particular weekend for your class. If you cannot make this weekend, please call the store for an alternative date. There is an additional, optional rental fee for equipment of $75/weekend.
2) Take a Sub-Aquatic Sports group sponsored trip and complete training on location.
We offer trips from Canada to Australia. Please contact the store for our most current schedule. There is no extra instruction fee for completing the training dives. From our experience, people who take a dive vacation immediately after completing the course are most likely to stay in the sport. Seeing the beauty of a reef or the mystery of a shipwreck first hand can’t help but stimulate your love for the sport. There are additional, optional equipment rental fees.
3) If you already have a trip planned, you may obtain a referral card.
A referral card states Sub-Aquatic Sports has completed the class/pool portion of the course. You will need to find an instructor to complete the training dives at your vacation destination. This instructor will charge a fee. Sub-Aquatic Sports may be able to recommend instructors at various dive destinations. There are additional, optional equipment rental fees.
4) Private open water training.
If your schedule does not allow for any of the above listed options, you may complete your dives privately. Based around your schedule, we will give one-on-one instruction. You will still need to allow two days to complete the training. The cost for private open water instruction is $200. There are also additional, optional equipment rental fees.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us!
Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service 347 North Helmer Road - Battle Creek, MI 49037
Phone: 269-968-8551