Former BSAC Diver

[Hatari123]

Hi folks,

I've been out of the sport for a few years now but would like to take it back up again. I initially qualified as a Sports Diver while attached to the British military in the Mediterranean during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Once back home I invested in a full set of scuba equipment and continued to pursue the sport Stateside. I always found myself coming up against problems as my qualification is British and not as widely recognized as a PADI certificate. I have heard that it is possible to do a crossover course. Can anyone offer any advice on this?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Hatari123]

Update On The BSAC

Update On The BSAC

Hi, having had no replies to this I thought it might help to post a link to the British Sub-Aqua Club website so people understand what organisation I am talking about. https://www.bsac.com/

Has anybody any ideas if their quals are compatible with PADI? All help appreciated.

 

[ace_92101]

I have both BSAC and PADI Divemaster qualifications. I did my BSAC training in East Africa and it was much more rigorous and comprehensive. If you're diving in Europe and many international destinations, it should be recognized. I know that there is a conversion to PADI if you're moving up a level in your certification. If it were me, unless you're looking to become an instructor and work overseas, I'd stick with you're BSAC.

 

[Hatari123]

Hi folks,

I've been out of the sport for a few years now but would like to take it back up again. I initially qualified as a Sports Diver while attached to the British military in the Mediterranean during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Once back home I invested in a full set of used scub equipment and continued to pursue the sport Stateside. I always found myself coming up against problems as my qualification is British and not as widely recognized as a PADI certificate. I have heard that it is possible to do a crossover course. Can anyone offer any advice on this?

Thanks in advance.

I have both BSAC and PADI Divemaster qualifications. I did my BSAC training in East Africa and it was much more rigorous and comprehensive. If you're diving in Europe and many international destinations, it should be recognized. I know that there is a conversion to PADI if you're moving up a level in your certification. If it were me, unless you're looking to become an instructor and work overseas, I'd stick with you're BSAC.

(Just for fun - Photo of me on my Sports Divers course with British guys in the Med. Good times.)


Thanks for the reply and advice ace_92101. I hear what you are saying about the BSAC training being more rigorous, many people have mentioned that in the past, so I am happy to have initially gone through the more comprehensive of the 2 courses. But as I am actually hoping to attain instructor level and work worldwide (as you alluded to), I'm thinking PADI would be the way to go. I guess it's a question of whether or not PADI will recognize my initial BSAC training or make me start from scratch. I guess its a simple case of giving them a call or sending an email and asking them, but I was hoping to approach the forearmed info wise if that makes sense. Thanks for the input all the same. If anyone else could cast anymore light on this issue it would again be really appreciated.

 

[rjallen]

As mentioned earlier, your BSAC was more extensive than any open water course taught today in the US. ANY- instructor/ dive store owner should be familiar with your certification. I know most of the English speaking Carib. destinations will gladly honor your credentials.
If you want to avoid the hassle from ignorant newbies work out a deal from a local shop. Offer to do some informal assisting or go for a divemaster or assistant instructor NAUI or PADI certs. If you have a log any instructor can help. Year ago, I had the honor of assisting a British SAS Vet get his assistant instructor's cert. He finished at the top of the class.

RJ