Cost and Costa Rica

Reef · 10-08-2006, 12:23 AM

Hey ya'll.

I just was recently invited on a trip by my school to go SCUBA with them and do some experiments/measurements off coast of Costa Rica along their reefs. My issue. I'm do not have a SCUBA license and I'm curious about the cost of getting certified, any of you mind sharing what you paid for your cert. and equipment? I'm a college kid so I'm on a budget, but I really, really, really want to go. This may be one of my few chances in life to experience what I know and love, reefs.

Also, I was curious if any of you have dived around Costa Rica and that area of the Pacific ocean. If so I'd like to get some of your imput so I can acclimate myself ahead of time to the conditions (ex.is there anything aggressive & dangerous that I should know of ahead of time). I don't know much, but I'm trying to learn as much as possible before I decide to take the plunge (both figurative and literally) into SCUBA.

**Resqdivemedic** · 10-09-2006, 01:39 AM

You picked an excellent group to learn about SCUBA. Alot of knowledge and experience from alot of great people. As far as a basic scuba class, check with your local dive shop for pricing and scheduling. When you take the class, try out different equipment each time you dive. This will make it easier when it comes time to make a purchase. You can also check with the local dive shop about purchasing equipment, they may give discounts to students and also offer used equipmet at a pretty good savings. When you finally make the trip, it may be easier to rent equipment in Costa Rica than to transport your own. I recommend bringing your personal mask, snorkle, fins, and boots. I also encourage you to use a thin wetsuit when diving there. Either a full suit or shorty, 2-3mm in thickness. Even though the water is a balmy 80-85 degrees, it wont take long to get chilled in just a swimsuit and calling the dive early. Not to mention the fact of the increased risk of decompression sickness from hypothermia. Continue reading about diving, especially from the internet. Lots of good info out there. Good luck taking a class and have a safe trip. Welcome aboard, and dive safe.

**Scuba Mama** · 10-09-2006, 08:43 PM

One last item. Check with your school to see if they offer a scuba program. It is possible to get 2 college credits for taking the open water class. However, most colleges that teach will take you through class room and pool. You will be responsible to do the open water dives to complete the certification on your own. Cost can very depending on where you finish.