Can I complete part of the course in São Paulo or Rio before going to Búzios?

Depending on class scheduling and availability, yes — the confined-water (pool) stage can be completed in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. The open-water stage is always completed in Búzios. Check upcoming dates to confirm availability.

I've already done Discover Scuba Diving. Do I need to repeat everything?

Not necessarily — talk to our team, since in some cases skills you've already demonstrated may be credited. In general, the full course ensures every PADI-required skill is safely developed.

Is the PADI Open Water Diver certification valid in other countries?

Yes. PADI is the world's largest diver training organization, and the Open Water Diver certification is recognized internationally, with no expiration date.

How long does the course take?

Typically 3 to 4 days, though the pace can vary based on the student's and class's availability. The knowledge development portion can be started online, at your own pace, before the hands-on training.

A diver swimming alongside two sea turtles

Beginner

PADI Open Water Diver

The internationally recognized certification that makes you an autonomous diver — your entry point to explore the ocean anywhere in the world.

I want to learn to dive

Who it's for

For anyone who has tried Discover Scuba Diving and wants to become a certified diver, or who wants to start straight with the full course.

The PADI Open Water Diver is the most popular scuba certification in the world and the course that opens the door to the ocean. By the end, you'll be able to dive independently with a buddy, down to 18 meters, anywhere in the world.

The course combines knowledge development, confined-water training, and open-water dives, always guided by a PADI instructor. No previous experience is required — just a willingness to learn and feel comfortable in the water.

In Búzios, you complete the open-water stage in one of Brazil's most respected diving destinations, with visibility and marine life that make the certification an unforgettable experience.

Level: Beginner
Duration: Typically 3 to 4 days, depending on the student's pace and class schedule — check upcoming dates
Check pricing with our team: Pricing available on request — contact us for the current rate sheet

What you'll learn

Basic principles of dive physics and physiology
Assembling and caring for scuba equipment
Buoyancy control and underwater technique
Dive planning and using dive tables/computers
Safety procedures and emergency management
Underwater communication and buddy diving

A diver in full gear, ready to document the dive

Knowledge development

You'll study recreational diving theory through PADI eLearning at your own pace, or a printed manual with instructor support. This is the foundation for everything that follows.

A Búzios Divers difference

You don't have to do the entire course in Búzios

Based in São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro? Depending on class scheduling and availability, you can complete the pool/confined-water stage closer to home and then come to Búzios to finish the open-water stage.

Availability varies by class and schedule — check upcoming dates with our team.

São Paulo

Pool / confined-water stage

Possibility of completing the pool stage in São Paulo before traveling to Búzios, depending on class scheduling and availability.

Check dates

Rio de Janeiro

Pool / confined-water stage

Possibility of completing the pool stage in Rio de Janeiro before traveling to Búzios, depending on class scheduling and availability.

Check dates

Búzios

Your first open-water dive

Book your dive

PADI Open Water Diver

A sea turtle in the foreground, with a diver in the background over a rocky reef

Open water (Búzios)

The final stage always takes place in Búzios: four open-water dives where you apply everything you've learned and complete the experience that certifies you as a PADI Open Water Diver.

Prerequisites

Minimum age of 10 (Junior certification until age 15)
Ability to swim and feel comfortable in the water
Complete a diver medical/health questionnaire

What to bring

Swimsuit and towel
Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
ID document
Willingness to learn and have fun

What's included

PADI learning materials and platform access (eLearning or manual)
All scuba equipment during the course
Guidance from a certified PADI instructor
International PADI Open Water Diver certification upon completion

Frequently asked questions

You need to know how to swim and feel comfortable in the water, but you don't need to be an advanced swimmer. PADI requires a simple swim and float test at the start of the course.