Scuba Diving NJ: 7 Tips for Choosing a Scuba Diving Instructor
Are you looking to try scuba diving in NJ for the first time?
New Jersey has many exciting diving destinations, from abandoned shipwrecks to the Sandy Hook. While scuba diving may seem like a fun vacation activity, it’s not for the faint of heart. The chances of finding a dive center that will let you dive without certification are low.
However, if you’re willing to put in the time for scuba diving classes, it may be a great learning opportunity. If you’ve always dreamed of exploring the seas, this is your sign to start today!
The only thing you need is to get a scuba diving instructor. Read on to discover how to find the right diving instructor for your first lesson!
1. Prioritize Professionalism
Divers at diving centers must always have proper certification, so you don’t have to worry about that. However, it can be hard to determine if the instructors are professional if you don’t know what to look for. You want someone who can prove they should be teaching beginner divers.
Student divers often work in pairs and must wear the same equipment as their instructor. The instructor must also be in the vicinity when students are near or in the water. You’ll also notice how well an instructor teaches based on their students’ performance.
Most people spend scuba diving lessons swimming or floating. Students must never spend the entire session kneeling in the pool.
2. What Type of Scuba Diving Do You Want to Learn?
When you think of scuba diving, the first thing that comes to mind may be exploring coral reefs. NJ is also home to many shipwreck diving destinations.
If you wish to explore a certain niche, you need to choose the right type of classes.
3. Good Grasp of Fundamentals
When looking for a scuba diving instructor, you need someone who is an active diver.
Most diving centers have the proper material for beginners, but you also want the right amount of experience. Get someone who does real dives on a regular basis.
4. Clear Briefing and Debriefing Skills
Communication is crucial for survival at sea. An instructor must be able to tell you what they expect of you so that you can perform your best during lessons. When diving, clear instructions will be crucial for your safety.
Debriefing will also be vital for your improvement. You want an instructor who can give you precise feedback, not something general like “you did great.”
5. Ask for Referrals
If you have a friend or family member who is into diving, ask for a referral!
They can even give you some great tips on getting through your classes.
6. Ask About Past Students
Ask your instructor about their past students. How have they helped them with their struggles while learning to scuba dive?
It also helps to know the success rate of their classes.
7. Book a Day
The best way to find out if you’ve found the right instructor is to book a day with them. At the end of the day, you want to feel safe with your instructor.
Take the time to talk to them and see for yourself if this is a person you trust to teach you.
Start Scuba Diving in NJ Today
Scuba diving can be a journey, but it will feel like a breeze with the right teacher. Use these tips to find the right scuba diving instructor for you.
Are you interested in scuba diving in NJ? Contact us today to enroll in your first class.
