Dive Class FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes. You must feel comfortable in the water snorkeling.

How long is the class?
Our scheduled classes begin once a week and consists of 2 classroom sessions (M-W or T-TH), followed by a pool session and 2 full dive days. The exact schedule can be flexible and is set by the instructor and students on the first day of class.
Schedules for private classes vary to meet the needs of the student.

What is the age limit for diving?
PADI’s age limit for recreational divers is 10 years of age

Do I need to see a doctor first?
This depends on each person’s medical history and current physical condition. There is a short medical questionnaire that you will fill out before the class. If your answer is “Yes” to any of the listed conditions it does not necessarily mean you can’t dive, but you will have to visit a doctor and to get clearance before starting any dive class.
Download .pdf of the PADI Medical Questionnaire.

Can I do the book work online?
Yes!

What does the class entail?
There are 5 chapters of book work with knowledge reviews and a test, a pool session, and 4 open water dives

What if I cannot finish – is there a refund?
Depending upon what you finish and what arrangements you work out with your instructor will determine the refund if any

What gear do I need for class?
The only gear you will need to provide is a mask, snorkel, fins and booties. All scuba gear, tanks, and a dive computer will be provided by MDA.

How deep will I go?
The maximum depth of the pool session is 10ft. Dives 1-2 will be to a depth of no more than 40 ft. Dives 3-4 can be up to 60ft. Exact depths will vary.

Can I rent gear after the class or do I have to buy? How much?
24hr Gear rental is available at MDA Piti and Sumay locations. A certification card is required to rent scuba gear. Save money by purchasing a rental punch card; or, you may find that you'll save even more by purchasing your own equipment.

When do we boat dive?
That will be arranged in the class with your instructor

How do I sign up for a class?
Stop by one of our location Piti, NEX, or Sumay to sign up for the class and pick up your OW Crew Pak and pay for the course

How much is the class?
MDA’s class price includes all materials: Open Water Dive manual, Dive Computer manual and your first dive log book; instruction, dive computer rental,  gear rental; and two boat dives. All for only $169!

Can I do book/pool somewhere else and do open water check out dives on Guam?
Yes. In this case please make contact with our instructor Coordinator (instruction@mdaguam.com) who can help you work out the details.

I started a class once and never finished, do I need to start over or does any of it transfer?
As long you complete the course within 12 months you are good if you take longer the course starts over from the beginning

Can I dive if I’m pregnant?
No. The effects of diving on a developing baby are not entirely known. Research is limited but generally shows increased risk to the fetus.