Open Water Scuba Course FAQ

Answers to common questions about Open Water course formats, shore and boat dives, swim requirements, pre-course preparation, dive medicals and vision correction for beginner scuba training in Melbourne.

Simple Dive offers two three-day SDI Open Water course formats in Melbourne. The $699 format includes four shore dives, while the standard $779 weekend format includes three shore dives and one boat dive. Both include four open-water training dives and lead to the same SDI Open Water Diver certification.

What is the difference between Simple Dive’s two three-day Open Water courses?

Both formats include four open-water training dives and lead to the same SDI Open Water Diver certification. The $699 format includes four shore dives. Standard $779 Weekend Pricing includes three shore dives and one boat dive.

Does the $699 three-day Open Water course include a boat dive?

No. The $699 three-day format includes four shore-based open-water training dives.

Does the standard $779 Weekend Pricing course include a boat dive?

Yes. Standard $779 Weekend Pricing includes three shore dives and one boat dive, subject to safe weather and operational conditions. Selected $699 dates marked Weekday Pricing or Weekday Course Structure use four shore dives and do not include a boat dive.

What happens if the Weekend Pricing boat dive is changed to a shore dive?

For Weekend Pricing bookings, if the scheduled boat dive is changed to a shore dive, you may choose to keep the boat ticket as credit or receive a $90 refund. This does not affect your certification. This provision does not apply to the $699 four-shore-dive format.

Do I need to complete a 200-metre swim and 10-minute float?

Yes. You must complete a continuous, unassisted and untimed 200-metre swim using any stroke, plus a 10-minute float or tread-water test. These checks demonstrate basic water readiness. If you cannot complete them, you will not be able to continue the course.

What must I complete before the Open Water course starts?

• Complete and submit the dive medical questionnaire.
• If the questionnaire indicates that a full dive medical is required, provide medical clearance at least seven days before the course starts.
• Complete the assigned eLearning and final exam before day one. Allow approximately six to seven hours for the online theory.

If the pre-course requirements are not completed, you may need to move to another course date under the applicable Course Terms and Conditions.

Can I scuba dive if I wear glasses or contact lenses?

Soft contact lenses can generally be worn while diving. Another option is a prescription dive mask with replaceable corrective lenses, commonly available in half-dioptre increments. Prescription masks are not available for hire from Simple Dive.