Certification Question

Nismo · 08-16-2006, 02:02 AM

My wife and I are taking a NAUI open water course. An idea from a family member since we are going to Cozumel for our first anniversary. A family member and spouse who dive often, recommended this guy to take the course from. We finish this next weekend.

I am interested in taking the Advanced class and probably further, my wife is unsure. The dive shop in our resort in Cozumel is a PADI instruction center. My question is, is it ok to swap back and forth between PADI and NAUI or would I be better off sticking with one certification type? I may do my advnaced class before going to Cozumel with this same instructor, but may take the advanced class or others in Cozumel so I can log dives and also get more certs. Is this ok, or one of those things thats frowned upon? The training seems so similar at least in the early stages. Thanks for everyone's time.

rrostie · 08-16-2006, 03:08 AM

I would definitely take the course locally, and try to get as much experience as you can before your trip.
Unless you just plan to dive on vacations, you might look into buying some equipment before you go (BC and wetsuit.) It would be a shame if you don't have a good time on your trip because of inexperience and equipment that didn't fit right.

**glynneco** · 08-16-2006, 03:22 AM

The certifying agiecies have slightly different requirements for certification. All the major points are covered though so it doesn't make a real difference. No one is going to kick you off the boat for having to different cert agencies. I would attempt to get the training done before you go. You don't want to be sitting in a classroom in cozumel! If time is an issue look into getting a referal. That is where you do the classroom work locally and do the diving part when you get to your destination. Don't push the wife. People should dive because they want to. If someone is uncomfortable it can lead to panic situations and severe trouble. My wife dosen't dive (or swim) so she sleeps late and lies on the beach or goes shopping whilst I dive. Your usually back for lunch at resorts after a two tank dive so she doesn't really miss me! Have fun and dive safe!

Nismo · 08-16-2006, 01:54 PM

I'm definitely not pushing my wife, she does have an interest, she just doesnt know how far she wants to go with it. I'll have the NAUI Open Water Course done this weekend, hopefully. Concerned since I get off a 14 hour night shift Saturday morning and then drive to the quarry for the first day of dives.

I'll take the advanced class with the same instructor, probably so I can get it out of the way. Dont know if my wife will, have to wait and see.