SDI certification question
- Thread starter pperez
- Start date
fppf
New member
I don't beleave they teach tables. They only teach how to use a dive computer. While most people will use a computer it is very usefull to know and use tables. I think you also get a better understanding with tables because you know some of the math behind the computer and why. Then there is always the issue of going on a 7 day live aboard and having your computer crap on day 2. So are you going to buy 2 computers to have a spare? I know a few people that have 2 computers but that is because they bought a new one and keep the old one for backup. I just fall back onto tables for a lower cost backup. You don't get as much dive time but its better than sitting on the boat.
maxima k2
New member
Being a new guy to diving(me), get the best training you can. I thought that I wanted to dive reefs and just be a resort diver. I went through NAUI and have learned a whole new respect for training. Some of the reefs will go pretty deep and you will want to check it out and the next thing you know you are at 90+ feet. Not a good place to be if you dont know what to do in an emergency. I have been diving on tables and a computer, and the computer is the best. But like fppf said you dont want to be sitting out on the boat when everyone else is telling you what they saw on their dive. Learn everything and use what works best for you.
rmougey
Chair, MACNA 2014
Most certification agencies offer decent training for simple open water diving. The important part is how you implement that training under water.
SDI, TDI and ERDI are associated with each other, with SDI geared toward the casual diver, TDI the technical diver and ERDI Public Safety diver (those intrepid folks who pull bodies out of sunken cars, search lake beds or perform fast water rescues).
PADI is the leading certification agency in the US, but not worldwide. They have great marketing and decent training. After training, their purpose is to sell you more training.
NAUI has been around longer than most and was the original certifying agency, typically working with the YMCA many years ago. Early NAUI instructors came from the Navy. One NAUI course is worth 3-4 other certification courses.
There is also SSI, which provides training in the US. It seems to be a popular alternative for recreational divers.
No matter who you choose for training, remember and implement what you were taught and don't dive beyond your limits. And when you are out there in the ocean, don't blindly follow your dive guide, regardless of the number of certifications they claim to have. You are responsible for using common sense and enjoying the next dive.
Finally, if you are venturing out of the US, be sure to have dive insurance. You can get it from DAN and a few other companies.
-Rob
SDI, TDI and ERDI are associated with each other, with SDI geared toward the casual diver, TDI the technical diver and ERDI Public Safety diver (those intrepid folks who pull bodies out of sunken cars, search lake beds or perform fast water rescues).
PADI is the leading certification agency in the US, but not worldwide. They have great marketing and decent training. After training, their purpose is to sell you more training.
NAUI has been around longer than most and was the original certifying agency, typically working with the YMCA many years ago. Early NAUI instructors came from the Navy. One NAUI course is worth 3-4 other certification courses.
There is also SSI, which provides training in the US. It seems to be a popular alternative for recreational divers.
No matter who you choose for training, remember and implement what you were taught and don't dive beyond your limits. And when you are out there in the ocean, don't blindly follow your dive guide, regardless of the number of certifications they claim to have. You are responsible for using common sense and enjoying the next dive.
Finally, if you are venturing out of the US, be sure to have dive insurance. You can get it from DAN and a few other companies.
-Rob
