A diver swimming alongside a reef full of fish

Beginner

PADI Scuba Diver

An entry-level certification for those short on time — dive supervised by a professional down to 12 meters.

Why take this course

  • Ideal for travelers short on time who still want to dive for real
  • An internationally recognized PADI certification, upgradable to Open Water Diver whenever you're ready
  • Dive supervised down to 12 meters, with a PADI professional always by your side

The PADI Scuba Diver is an entry-level certification for anyone short on time who still wants the real experience of diving with scuba gear. The course covers the first three knowledge development sessions, the confined-water skills, and the first three open-water dives of the Open Water Diver curriculum — it just skips the fourth session and fourth dive.

The key difference from Open Water Diver is that a Scuba Diver always dives supervised by a PADI professional, with a 12-meter depth limit, rather than diving fully independently with a buddy. It's still an internationally recognized PADI certification — and can be upgraded to Open Water Diver at any time by completing the missing session and dive.

Level
Beginner
Duration
2 in-person days in Búzios
Theory
100% online, at your own pace, before the in-person part (PADI eLearning)
Check pricing with our team
Pricing available on request — contact us

What you'll learn

  • Diving safety fundamentals
  • Essential skills in confined and open water

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

What's included

  • PADI eLearning
  • Confined water (pool) classes
  • 3 open-water dives, always with a PADI professional

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Just complete the missing knowledge session and dive to receive the full PADI Open Water Diver certification.

A diver swimming with two sea turtles near a reef

PADI Scuba Diver

An entry-level certification for those short on time — dive supervised by a professional down to 12 meters.

More information