PADI Open Water Referral Course
Planning to finish your scuba certification on your next holiday? Don't waste precious vacation time sitting in a classroom or pool! With our PADI Open Water Referral Course, you complete all academic theory and confined water pool training right here in Vancouver in just 4 evenings.
Upon completion, we provide you with official PADI referral paperwork that any PADI instructor or dive facility worldwide will recognize to complete your 4 ocean dives. Referrals are valid for up to one year, though we recommend completing your ocean dives while your skills are fresh!
Flexible Upgrade Option: Decide you'd rather finish your ocean dives with us in local BC waters? You can seamlessly upgrade to our full PADI Open Water program at any point during your course.
Course Highlights & Schedule
- Course Length: 4 Evenings (Mondays & Wednesdays over 2 weeks).
- Start Times: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM (Standard) | 5:30 PM (July & August dates).
- Age Requirement: 10+ years old (10–11 year olds earn Junior Referral status).
- Course Difficulty: Beginner – no prior scuba experience required!
- Time Split: Self-paced eLearning, classroom reviews, and heated indoor pool training.
No Hidden Fees – Complete Transparency
Did you know that IDC’s Referral program includes your PADI eLearning code ($280 value) and official PADI processing fees? Other dive shops often add these on as hidden extras costing over $100. At IDC, there are no surprise fees—we provide clear, top-quality training at the advertised price.
Detailed Course Curriculum
Part 1: Knowledge Development (eLearning)
- Once registered, you will receive an email link to activate your interactive PADI eLearning.
- Study at your own pace (approx. 8–10 hours) covering dive physics, physiology, equipment, and safety.
- All online modules, quizzes, and exams must be completed prior to your first Monday in-person class.
Part 2: Classroom & Heated Pool Training
You will complete 4 classroom sessions and 4 pool dives held on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Pool training focuses on skill development, buoyancy, and equipment familiarity with low student-to-instructor ratios.
Evening Schedule Breakdown:
| Course Phase | Standard Schedule (Sep–Jun) | Summer Schedule (Jul & Aug) |
|---|---|---|
| Classroom Knowledge Review | 6:30 PM | 5:30 PM |
| Pool Deck Assembly & Briefing | 9:00 PM | 7:30 PM |
| In-Water Pool Practice | 9:30 PM – 10:30 PM | 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
What We Supply (Included):
- PADI eLearning access pass ($280 value).
- All core scuba equipment rentals for pool sessions (BCD, regulator set, suit, tanks, weights).
- Official signed PADI Open Water Referral documentation for your destination dive shop.
- Heated pool access with changing facilities, showers, and parking.
- Van rides to the pool from the shop available upon request (subject to space availability).
What You Supply:
- Personal Snorkeling Gear: Mask, Snorkel, and personal Silicone Regulator Mouthpiece (available for purchase at IDC prior to class).
- Personal Items: Swimsuit and towel.
- Forms: Completed PADI Diver Medical Form prior to start of course.
- Transportation: Transit to/from store and pool (unless riding in the IDC van if space permits).
