So you are keen to learn how to dive but are a little confused by the plethora of different dive organisations out there... which do you choose and what is the difference between them anyway? In my opinion the short answer is to do your dive course through PADI, but it may be that i'm a little biased (i am a PADI instructor after all) so i'll delve into the details a little deeper and allow you to make up your own mind.

PADI, NAUI, CMAS... enough with the four letter acronyms!

There are a number of different dive organisations operating thoughout the world but the three you are most like to encounter in South Africa are PADI, NAUI and CMAS.

PADI - Professional Association of Diving Instructors, www.padi.com

NAUI - National Association of Underwater Instructors, www.naui.com

CMAS -Confederation Mondiale des Activities Subaquatiques, www.cmas.org

Let me start by saying that all will teach you how to dive and all will do a very good job at it... the differences lie in their philosophies, training methods and worldwide recognition. In the end who you choose should come down to the instructors who will be teaching the courses so be sure to try and meet them before hand. Also check out the dive centers facilities, gear and general atmosphere...

PADI -

NAUI -

CMAS -

So why PADI?

PADI is probably the easiest way to learn how to dive. Thier approach to teaching is to keep it fun while ensuring that you learn all the skills necessary to make you a safe diver. Being the largest international diving organsiation also means that no matter where in the world your adventures may take you, you can be sure your diving certification will be recognized.

Happy Diving!