PADI Advanced Open Water Diver
This course is for new or developing divers building practical skills and confidence step by step. You will work through the required knowledge and practical sessions for the qualification outcome.
Agency minimum age: 10
Age note: Junior Open Water Diver for ages 10–14; standard certification from 15.
Club minimums: Some programmes may operate with a higher club minimum depending on delivery and arrangements. We’ll confirm this when you enquire.
Prerequisites: No previous scuba qualification is required.
Training format: Knowledge development, pool/confined-water practice and open-water sessions as required by the course.
Locations: Pool or theory elements use suitable club venues, with open-water training at appropriate UK sites such as Stoney Cove where relevant.
Scheduling arrangements: We start beginner courses regularly and can discuss training around your availability. Contact us to plan a suitable starting point.
Location details: View club locations
Important: Age alone does not establish eligibility. Qualification, experience, medical screening and parental consent requirements still apply where relevant.
Discuss your training
Tell us about your experience and what you’d like to achieve. We’ll explain the suitable training options, what’s included and the full cost before you decide.
Ask about PADI Advanced Open Water Diver
What’s included?
Our course price includes everything you need to complete your training. Quarry admission for the open-water sessions is payable separately and is typically around £20 per person per day. Charges vary by venue, and we’ll explain the full cost and arrangements before you book.
We start beginner courses regularly and can discuss training around your availability. Contact us to plan a suitable starting point.
Training journey
- Knowledge development to build core understanding and safety awareness.
- Pool or confined-water sessions to develop practical skills.
- Open-water training sessions where required for qualification.
- Qualification completion and guidance on suitable next steps.
Completion timing depends on individual progress, attendance and arranging the required sessions.
Equipment and what to bring
Training equipment is provided for course use where applicable. We’ll explain what to bring and help you understand the equipment before your training starts.
Training locations
Theory, pool and open-water elements are arranged according to the course requirements. See our location information for club venues and meeting details.
Open-water sessions are completed at suitable UK sites, often including inland quarries. Quarry admission is separate from the course price.
What Is the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course?
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is a skill-building program that enhances your confidence and expands your underwater capabilities. Designed for certified Open Water Divers, it allows you to experience new diving activities while refining core skills.
What Will You Learn?
This course consists of five Adventure Dives, including two mandatory dives and three elective dives tailored to your interests. Here’s what you’ll cover:
1. Deep Dive (Mandatory)
Gain the skills to safely dive to a depth of 30 meters, understanding the physiological and technical considerations of deeper diving.
2. Underwater Navigation Dive (Mandatory)
Master navigation techniques using compasses and natural underwater landmarks to improve your confidence in navigating dive sites.
3. Elective Adventure Dives
Choose from a variety of exciting Adventure Dives, such as:
- Wreck Diving: Explore shipwrecks and uncover their fascinating histories.
- Night Diving: Discover the underwater world after dark and encounter nocturnal marine life.
- Drift Diving: Learn to navigate currents and enjoy the thrill of riding underwater “rivers.”
- Underwater Photography: Capture stunning images of marine life and seascapes.
- Peak Performance Buoyancy: Hone your buoyancy control for more efficient and enjoyable diving.
Why Choose the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course?
1. Explore New Horizons
Dive into new activities and explore underwater environments that were previously out of reach.
2. Build Confidence and Skills
Develop advanced skills that improve your diving proficiency and enhance your overall experience.
3. International Recognition
The PADI Advanced Open Water certification is recognized worldwide, making it an essential step for divers seeking new adventures.
4. Customizable Training
With a wide range of Adventure Dives to choose from, the course can be tailored to your interests and diving goals.
What to Expect During the Course?
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is designed to be flexible and enjoyable, allowing you to complete it at your own pace. You’ll work closely with a PADI instructor to develop your skills and gain hands-on experience during each dive. Expect a balance of learning, exploration, and fun as you dive into new adventures.
Key highlights include:
- One-on-one guidance from a PADI-certified instructor.
- Opportunities to explore unique dive sites and environments.
- Personalized training tailored to your preferences.
Who Can Join?
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is open to anyone who holds a PADI Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent). Divers as young as 12 years old can participate, with age-appropriate restrictions for certain Adventure Dives.
This course is perfect for those looking to enhance their skills, explore new diving activities, and build confidence underwater.
Continue Your Journey
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is a gateway to even more exciting diving opportunities. Upon completion, you’ll be qualified to participate in advanced diving activities and pursue specialty courses, such as the PADI Rescue Diver certification.
Take the next step in your diving journey and unlock a world of underwater adventures today!
Course FAQs
Do I need previous diving experience?
No previous scuba qualification is needed for beginner routes.
When can I start?
We start beginner courses regularly and can discuss a suitable start date around your availability.
How is the training arranged?
Training is planned around the required course elements and suitable session availability.
What do I need to bring?
We’ll explain what to bring and any practical preparation before your training starts.
What happens after the course?
After completing the course, we can discuss suitable progression options and next diving steps.
Ready to discuss your training?
Tell us about your experience and availability, and we’ll help you plan the next step.
