© Octopus Divers

Frequently asked questions

We often get asked many questions about the club and scuba diving so we have put together this page to help you get more out of the site.

What is the youngest age for a Try Dive?

In theory you can do a Try Dive from any age - however for reasons to with the weight and size of the Scuba Equipment we have a minimum age of 10.

What is the youngest age for starting the Ocean Diver Course?

The youngest you start the course is 12.

Why the differences in the ages?

The BSAC do not specify a minimum age for a Try Dive which takes place in the very benign conditions of a swimming pool and can be done in standing depth, but it does specify a minimum age for the Ocean Diver course for safety reasons as this will involve open water scuba training in up to 20 metres (60 foot) deep of water.

When can we do a Try Dive?

Any pool night subject to instructor availability - ring us to arrange one. 

Do you have to be able to swim to become a Scuba Diver?

Yes - before commencing the Ocean Diver course you will have to demonstrate that you can swim 100 metres (8 lengths of the pool we use) continuously.

Do I have to take a medical before going SCUBA diving?

No - you will be required to complete a medical self certification form. Prior to starting the Ocean Diver Course. Which is then completed annually on renewal of your membership. This form is a legal document and the signed declaration confirms that the declaration is truthful. If you answer 'No' to all questions on the form you complete the declaration and hand it to the branch. If you answer 'Yes' or are unsure on any area, you should not sign the form but must seek advice from a Medical Referee. From an initial telephone call and depending on the advice of the referee, you may be able to complete the form, or get the form endorsed by a Medical Referee by posting it to them with a stamped addressed envelope for return. If you are advised to see a medical referee and then passed fit to dive, a copy of a current Certificate of Fitness to Dive signed by the medical referee should accompany the annual medical declaration form. (The referee will determine for how many years that certificate of fitness will be valid).
click here to download a copy of the form
There are certain conditions which will definitely stop you from diving such as epilepsy, heart disease, high blood pressure, stress induced asthma, respiratory ailments and burst eardrums. However, there are others which do not prevent you such as Diabetes.

I learnt to dive with PADI can I join your club?

Yes, this is no problem at all - click here to see how your qualification is recognised by the BSAC, and you can also continue to upgrade your training at lower price than continuing through the PADI system.  Quite a few of members started their diving through PADI then crossed over.

Are there any discounts on costs?

Yes - but only if 2 or more members of the same household join.  Talk to us further about this.

I am a member of another scuba diving club can I still join?

Yes - you can however you will have to nominate which club is to be your main club - this is for reporting and training purposes.