Pricey Play Paradox
Congratulations! You’re now an Open Water Diver. You have new dive computer and BCD and mask that makes you look like a stormtrooper. You are officially one of the most interesting people in your circle of friends… they may not know that yet, but they will when you shove it down their throats - you should, they want you to. Okay…they coughed, they gagged, now what?
Like all hobbies, the initial cost of diving is expensive. After all, you’re learning how to not kill yourself in the most austere environment on the planet. But how do you get the most bang for your buck? DEP recommends the following:
Dive anywhere. Take on the training to dive in nearly any conditions. Low visibility, currents and tides, warm and cold, night and day, fresh and salt, boat or shore. All dive agencies have programming to train you on how to dive anywhere. That programming then has you complete a dive in those conditions to build confidence and experience.
Dive local. Not all diving requires a plane ticket or an all inclusive resort. There are scuba parks, lakes, and quarries in your own backyard that cater to divers. Why haven’t you heard of them, probably because you’re a new diver and you didn’t know to look before. Every state has a list of local bodies of water eligible for diving.
Find the local dive community. Surprise, everyone you just got certified with are looking to dive too. Look at your local diving center that certified you. They’ll have a community of divers who are looking to dive more. They’re packed full of new people just like you and mentors excited to show you the ropes. Maybe your dive center is too small or busy to entertain your inquiry about local diving? First, ignore them and never go back. Second, find an online diving community. Facebook, ScubaBoard, Instagram, even your certifying agency will connect you with local divers. Not sure where to start, shot us a message and we’ll get you on the right track.
Extend your dive season. Get drysuit certified. Diving into the Fall and Winter is one of the most rewarding actions you can take. Inland lakes and quarries become more accessible to you. Clarity is to be had at the bottom. And temperature becomes just a number.
Incorporate diving into every trip. Your Open Water certification is the passport you didn’t know you needed. Every where you go has a diving scene. These are people from different walks of life that share a passion with you. Have a trip to Disney World - go diving. Trip to Denver - go diving. Trip to New York - go diving. Trip to Nevada - yes, go diving.
Still a little intimidated? That’s okay. Practice and repetition will shake off the nerves. Share your worries with us and we’ll offer the best advice we can.