Learn to scuba
dive in Ottawa.
Take your first breath underwater and build the skills to keep exploring. Our Open Water Diver course brings together theory, confined-water practice and four open-water dives.
How the course works.
Build your understanding, get comfortable with the equipment, then put it all together in open water.
Theory & knowledge review
Learn the essentials of pressure, buoyancy, equipment and dive planning. Complete the required course material and review key concepts with your instructor. Ask us about eLearning access when you register.
Confined-water training
Practise in a controlled, pool-like environment. Get used to breathing underwater and work through equipment, mask, regulator and buoyancy skills before heading into open water.
Four open-water dives
Apply what you’ve learned on four instructor-supervised training dives. Your instructor assesses your knowledge and practical skills before you earn your SDI certification.
Come ready to learn.
Comfort in the water
- Swim 200 m continuously without swimming aids, or 300 m with mask, snorkel and fins.
- Float or tread water for 10 minutes.
- Complete the required diver medical questionnaire and training paperwork before in-water sessions. Medical clearance may be needed depending on your answers.
You don’t need prior scuba experience. If you have questions about the swim or any part of the course, talk to us before registering.
Age, equipment & planning
The standard SDI Open Water certification is available from age 15; written parental consent is required for students under 18. For ages 10–14, ask us about SDI Junior Open Water options and availability.
Contact us to confirm course dates, training locations, equipment arrangements and what to bring. We’ll help you work out the next steps before your first session.
Learn more about the program from Scuba Diving International (SDI) and its Open Water course standards.
Start with gear that fits you.
New Open Water students receive up to 20% off gear purchases. Ask our team about equipment selection and the student offer. Conditions apply.
Before you take the plunge.
Is this the right course if I’ve never dived before?
Yes. Open Water is the starting point for scuba certification. If you’d like to try scuba first, our Discover Scuba Diving experience is $59.99.
How long will the course take?
Our standard Open Water course runs over 1.5 weeks. If you need a different schedule, contact us to discuss other course options and availability.
Do I need to buy equipment?
No. Scuba Finatics is Ottawa’s only dive centre that does not require you to purchase any equipment for your Open Water course. Focus on learning to dive, with the freedom to choose whether to buy your own gear later.
Can I arrange private training?
Yes. A private Open Water course is available for an additional $150. Contact us to discuss dates and scheduling.
What happens after certification?
Keep building experience with dives suited to your training. Explore our charters, membership and continuing education when you’re ready for your next step.
Let’s get you underwater.
Tell us you’re interested in Open Water and share any preferred dates or questions. Our team will help with availability, equipment and registration.
Send an enquiry below. We’ll confirm course dates and registration with you.
Visit us at 6716 Bank Street, Ottawa.
Refund policy: No refunds once a course has started without a doctor’s note indicating a medical reason that occurred after signup. If eLearning has been started, only a partial refund may be available because associated costs have already been incurred. Confirm course pricing and availability with the shop before registration.