What Is the PADI Scuba Diver Course? Everything Beginners Need to Know
The PADI Scuba Diver course is a shorter beginner certification that lets you dive with a PADI professional to a maximum depth of 12 metres. It is perfect if you want a real certification but do not have time for the full Open Water Diver course.
Think of it as the first part of Open Water: you learn the essentials, get certified, and can complete the full course later. Want to know if it suits your holiday? Ask us in the form below.
What Is Included in the PADI Scuba Diver Course?
The PADI Scuba Diver course is made up of the first sections of the Open Water Diver course. It includes three parts:
| Part | What you do |
| Knowledge development | Learn the basics of diving equipment, safety and how pressure affects your body |
| Confined water dives | Practise key skills in calm, shallow water |
| Open water dives | Two dives in the Red Sea with your instructor |
When you complete these steps, you receive your PADI Scuba Diver certification.
What Can You Do as a PADI Scuba Diver?
As a PADI Scuba Diver you can:
- Dive to a maximum depth of 12 metres
- Dive under the direct supervision of a PADI professional (Divemaster or Instructor)
- Rent or buy equipment and get air fills
- Join guided dives at dive centers around the world
The main limit is that you cannot dive independently with a buddy. For that, you need the full Open Water Diver certification.
Who Can Take the Course?
The minimum age is 10 years. Children aged 10 to 14 earn a Junior Scuba Diver certification with extra limits. You also need to be comfortable in the water and complete a medical questionnaire.
How Long Does It Take and How Much Does It Cost?
The PADI Scuba Diver course usually takes about 2 days. At Chloe’s Diving Center it costs €300, including learning materials, certification, logbook and daily taxation.
See all course prices on our diving prices in Hurghada page.
Can You Upgrade to Open Water Later?
Yes. Your Scuba Diver training counts toward the full Open Water Diver certification. At Chloe’s Diving Center, the upgrade from Scuba Diver to Open Water costs €300.
If you already know you have 3 to 4 days, the full PADI Open Water Diver course in Hurghada at €400 is the better value.
Is the Scuba Diver Course Right for You?
The Scuba Diver course is a great choice if:
- You have only 2 days for diving
- You want a certification, not just a try dive
- You are happy to dive with a guide on future holidays
If you only have one day, an introductory dive in Hurghada for €65 is the easiest way to start. Explore all options on our PADI diving courses in Hurghada page.
Book Your PADI Scuba Diver Course
The PADI Scuba Diver course is the quickest way to become a certified diver in Hurghada. Book your course or message us on WhatsApp.
How deep can a PADI Scuba Diver go?
Up to 12 metres, under the direct supervision of a PADI professional.
Is PADI Scuba Diver a real certification?
Yes. It is an official PADI certification, recognised worldwide.
How many dives are in the course?
The course includes two open water dives after your confined water training.
Can I dive alone with a buddy after Scuba Diver?
No. You must dive with a PADI professional. The Open Water Diver certification allows buddy diving.
