We will still follow the 3 step model with Knowledge Development, Skill Development and Open Water Check Out Dives.

The package is mainly meant for divers that would like to do their check out dives during the winter and spring months, when we are not going to the lake because of the cold temperatures. The Florida Springs are crystal clear and the water temperature is 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year around. We travel to the Gainesville, FL area on Friday evening, to dive early on Saturday, typically at the Blue Grotto Springs. We complete the check out dives on Sunday morning at Devil’s Den Springs.

Dates for these weekend getaways can be found in our Events calendar. Accommodations and all fees for the dives are included in this package.

Step 1: Knowledge Development

After signing up for the course with Athens Scuba, we’ll send you an email with all necessary information and a link to the SDI website and your personal link to the eLearning materials. You’ll be able to access your eLearning materials from anywhere, on your own schedule. So far, this is the same as the Classic (City) Package.

Step 2: Skill Development

Once you’ve completed the Knowledge Development, we’ll start skill development in the Confined Water (pool) sessions. We’ll meet twice, for about three hours each session, at Oconee Aquatics to work on all required skills for the Open Water Diver certification. This gives us plenty of time to develop your skills to be ready for the open water check out dives. 

Step 3: Open Water Check Out Dives

Open Water dives 1 and 2 be completed Saturday morning at the Blue Grotto Spring. Open Water dives 3 and 4 will be completed on Sunday morning at Devils Den Spring.