Open Water Certification vs Advanced: Which Level Do You Need?
Open Water certification vs Advanced is a common question once divers start planning their next trip. Open Water is your first full certification, while Advanced Open Water builds experience and lets you dive deeper.
They are not alternatives but steps on the same path. This guide explains the differences so you know when it is time to move up. Not sure which level you need? Ask us in the form below.
Open Water vs Advanced at a Glance
| Factor | PADI Open Water Diver | PADI Advanced Open Water Diver |
| Level | First full certification | Second level |
| Prerequisite | None | Open Water Diver (or equivalent) |
| Maximum depth | 18 m | 30 m |
| Training dives | 5 confined + 4 open water | 5 Adventure Dives |
| Theory | Full beginner theory | Short knowledge reviews |
| Typical duration | 3–4 days | About 2 days |
| Minimum age | 10 years | 12 years |
| Price at Chloe’s Diving Center | €400 | €310 |
See all prices on our diving prices in Hurghada page.
What Open Water Gives You
The PADI Open Water Diver certification teaches the essential skills to dive safely with a buddy. You learn equipment, breathing, buoyancy, safety and dive planning, and you can dive to 18 metres anywhere in the world.
Around Hurghada, Open Water divers can enjoy many beautiful sites, including the coral gardens of Giftun and the pinnacles of Abu Ramada. Learn more on our PADI Open Water Diver course in Hurghada page.
What Advanced Adds
The Advanced Open Water course is practical and fun. You complete five Adventure Dives, including the required Deep and Underwater Navigation dives, plus three you choose, such as Wreck, Drift, Night or Peak Performance Buoyancy.
After Advanced, you can dive to 30 metres, which opens deeper walls, the El Mina wreck and many famous Red Sea wrecks. Read more on our PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course in Hurghada page.
When Should You Take Advanced?
- Right after Open Water: many divers continue straight away while their skills are fresh.
- Before a wreck or deep dive trip: most wrecks lie between 18 and 30 metres.
- When you want more confidence: Advanced is about gaining experience with an instructor.
A popular one-week plan is Open Water in the first days, then Advanced Open Water, for €710 in total.
Is Advanced Open Water Hard?
No. The name sounds serious, but the course focuses on experience, not difficult tests. If you feel comfortable as an Open Water diver, you are ready.
Book Your Next Course
Open Water certification vs Advanced is really about where you are on your diving journey. Start with Open Water, then go Advanced when you are ready to explore more. Book your course or message us on WhatsApp.
Can I skip Open Water and do Advanced?
No. You need Open Water Diver (or an equivalent certification) before Advanced Open Water.
How deep can I go with each level?
Open Water allows 18 metres, and Advanced Open Water allows 30 metres.
Can I do both courses in one week?
Yes. Many divers complete Open Water and Advanced Open Water during a one-week holiday.
Is Advanced needed for wreck diving?
For most Red Sea wrecks, yes, because they lie deeper than 18 metres.
