Scuba diving is a very exiting experience: you are wearing a lot of equipment and are breathing under water. For some people, the idea of scuba diving can be daunting due to the unfamiliarity of the underwater environment.
Learning to swim or snorkeling before diving, gradually acclimates you to the water, reduces fear, and allows you to become comfortable in this new setting. It lays the groundwork for a positive and enjoyable diving journey.
While being a strong swimmer is advantageous and can enhance your scuba diving experience, it is not an absolute requirement to start learning how to dive.
If you're interested in scuba diving but have reservations about your swimming abilities, consider enrolling in a PADI Discover Scuba Diving program.
With the right approach and support, many individuals who were initially unsure about their swimming capabilities have gone on to become confident and enthusiastic divers.
PADI Discover Scuba Diving (DSD)
This program allows individuals with little to no diving experience to try scuba diving in a controlled environment. While it is not required, it is highly recommended that you feel (at least) comfortable in water and (preferably) have some experience with either swimming or snorkeling before signing up for this program.
PADI Open Water Diver Course
As part of the PADI Open Water Diver Course, you will need to show that you are comfortable in water. There are 2 water skill assessments that you will need to pass to get certified:
1. The 10min survival float, i.e. floating or treading water, without touching the bottom or any other support.
Imagine a sudden wave knocking you off balance, you fall of the boat and a current takes you away. The ability to keep your face out of the water will help you conserve energy and stay calm while the captain turns the boat around to pick you up.
2. The 200m swim or 300m snorkel (any style and you can take as long as you like) without stopping. While you would normally rely on your dive equipment while in the water, being able to swim has several advantages:
- Familiarity with water and basic swimming techniques instill confidence, which plays a pivotal role in staying calm during emergencies and making sound decisions while underwater.
- Mastering buoyancy control requires an understanding of how your body moves in water, a skill that swimming helps develop.
- Swimming skills are vital for efficiently navigating the water surface, especially when dealing with waves, currents, or boat entry/exit points where you might not be wearing your equipment.
- If you are a skilled swimmer, you can be a more reliable dive buddy, providing aid when needed and enhancing the overall safety of the diving experience.
If you think that you will not be able to complete these 2 water assessment skills, take swimming-lessons before signing up for this course.
Let your instructor help you
Remember that the goal of scuba diving training is to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to dive safely. It's essential to communicate openly with your instructor and express any concerns you may have about swimming or any aspect of scuba diving. The instructors at Langkawi Scuba can provide guidance, support, and advice tailored to your individual needs.
Would you like to know more about our PADI Discover Scuba Diving or PADI Open Water Course, contact us