Top Scuba Diving Certifications Programs for 2021
If you are interested in taking up scuba diving as a hobby or job, you probably have already started looking for certification programs. Each program has its own unique aspects and qualities that make them unique. The programs are also continually evolving and enhancing their curriculum. Let’s dive into some of the top scuba diving certification programs for 2021, as featured on Trip Savvy. PADI The Professional Association of Diving Instructors was started by Ralph Erickson and John Cronin in 1966. Based in the U.S., it is currently the biggest and most recognized scuba diving training program in the world. To date, it has issued 27 million scuba diving certifications by 137,000 PADI professionals around the globe. There are many different courses, from promoting marine life conservation to learning to take photos underwater to diving with sharks and more. The membership fees are considerably more expensive than other competing agencies, but the experience and knowledge gained are well worth the cost. SSI In 1970, Scuba Schools International was founded in Colorado. It is the second-largest and best scuba training agency after PADI. There are more than 2800 dive centers in 110 different countries. The courses are accessible in over 30 languages, and the academic portion is available exclusively online for free. This agency is more flexible and much cheaper than PADI; however, some students prefer to stick with a traditional in-person classroom environment. There are various levels of courses, from entry-level to extended range. In addition, as an SSI professional, you are privy to SSI job listings for free. This contrasts with PADI, which charges professionals a monthly membership fee for career opportunity access. NAUI
The National Association of Underwater Instructors is the oldest agency on this list. It is based in the U.S. and was founded in 1959. NAUI has pioneered most of the scuba training concepts that are used today in various agencies. Their motto is “Dive Safety Through Education,” as safety is their top priority within each course. There are not many specialty courses and much fewer dive centers worldwide than the other two agencies, but you are guaranteed to learn diving skills with precision and utmost security.