Open Water Diver Referral Certifications

Both programs cover the same essential scuba skills, ensuring you receive high-quality training that prepares you for a lifetime of diving. However, the way the courses are structured differs slightly:

• PADI follows a more standardized approach with performance-based milestones.
• SSI offers a more flexible learning experience that allows students to progress at their own pace.
• Both certifications are equally recognized at dive shops and resorts worldwide.

At Aquatica Underwater Adventures, we offer both PADI and SSI Open Water Diver certifications, giving you the flexibility to choose the training agency that best fits your needs. Both certifications are internationally recognized and allow you to dive up to 60 feet (18 meters) worldwide. The main difference comes down to personal preference and training style. 

Your choice between PADI and SSI may come down to factors like learning style, pricing, and personal preference. No matter which program you choose, you’ll receive expert instruction, small class sizes, and a fun, hands-on learning experience.

No we don't, please have your own transportation from the shop to the shore dive spot.

A referral dive is a way to split your scuba certification between two locations. You complete the academic portion (eLearning or classroom sessions) and confined water training (pool sessions) with a dive shop near home. Then, you "refer" to another dive shop—often in a vacation destination—to complete the final step: your four open water dives. This option is great for travelers who want to finish their certification in warm, tropical waters rather than a local quarry or pool. Once you complete those dives, you'll be fully certified to dive up to 60 feet (18 meters), just as if you'd done the entire course in one location.

A complete Open Water Diver certification, on the other hand, means you’re doing the entire process—academics, pool/confined water training, and open water dives—with the same dive shop. This can be done at home or at a dive destination and usually takes 3 to 4 full days. It’s a more streamlined option for those who have the time and want to train with one instructor team from start to finish.

Both routes result in the same internationally recognized certification. The referral system just gives you flexibility—especially if you want to avoid studying on vacation or support your local dive center before heading somewhere beautiful for your open water dives.

We’ll reschedule affected dives or adjust your schedule as needed to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

Diving in Puerto Rico is great year-round, with warm water and excellent visibility no matter the season. December to April typically offers the clearest visibility, while May to November brings warmer water temperatures, often reaching 84°F (29°C). There’s always amazing marine life to see, making any time a great time to dive!

While getting certified in Aguadilla, you’ll dive into warm, clear waters filled with vibrant marine life. Expect to see colorful reef fish like sergeant majors, angelfish, damselfish, porcupinefish, and even lionfish. Moray eels and flounders often make appearances, and with a bit of luck, you might spot sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, dolphins, or even seahorses. The reefs and structures around Crash Boat Beach and other local dive sites offer an incredible introduction to Puerto Rico’s underwater world.

Flying directly after scuba diving is incredibly dangerous and could result in a life-threatening illness called the Bends/Decompression Sickness. The Divers Alert Network (DAN) guidelines for flying after diving include:

• A single no-decompression dive, a minimum preflight surface or any driving to above 1000 ft (305 m) interval of 12 hours suggested.
• Multiple dives per day or multiple days of diving, a minimum preflight surface or any driving to above 1000ft (305m) interval of 18 hours is suggested.
• Dives requiring decompression stops are recommended to have longer than 18 hours.

Please discuss with your dive guide ahead of time what is suggested!

Any activity that brings you above 1000 ft (305 m) can trigger the Bends/Decompression Sickness. Please check your hike elevation to ensure that at no time you will be going up in elevation. If the hike does go to elevation, you must treat it like a preflight interval as listed above in the flying FAQ.

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled ‘non-nano.’

You can dive with a beard or mustache but it can prevent a tight seal between the mask and your face, which may cause water to leak in. It is often recommended to shave at least your mustache before diving. If you’d prefer not to shave your mustache, please bring petroleum jelly or chapstick with you. If you coat your mustache in that chapstick or jelly, it may be able to seal and prevent water from getting in.

Glasses cannot be worn while diving, but contacts are perfectly fine and recommended for the best experience. Prescription masks are not available for rent, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Additionally, there is an automatic correction effect that occurs underwater due to light refraction, making things appear clearer, but contacts or a personal prescription mask will provide the best visibility.