OCALA FREE DIVING FIELD GUIDE
One-on-one SSI Open Water Diver Training amid Ocala’s Freshwater Springs
A private, flexible SSI Open Water Diver program taught by the Aquatic Center of Ocala that combines classroom, on‑site pool training and two days of open‑water dives at Florida springs.
One-on-one SSI Open Water Diver Training amid Ocala’s Freshwater Springs.
In Ocala, inland springs and a dedicated on‑site pool become the classroom for learning to SCUBA — a flexible, instructor‑led Open Water Diver program that pairs hands‑on pool sessions with open water dives and issues an internationally recognized SSI certification.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Private, Personalized Instruction
Private classes offer one‑on‑one instruction through all three steps — classroom, pool skills and open water dives — with scheduling tailored to the student and a complete student kit included in the private tuition.
Two Days of Open‑Water Dives at Florida Springs
After pool work you join your instructor for two days of open‑water diving at nearby springs — regularly scheduled training trips include sites such as Manatee Springs, Blue Grotto, Devil’s Den and Paradise Springs — with park entry fees paid by students.
Core Systems Provided; Personal Fit Matters
The course supplies the air delivery system, buoyancy control system and exposure protection for training, but students must provide a personal snorkeling system (mask, fins, snorkel, boots, mouthpiece and SSI logbook); the Aquatic Center fits and sells these items.
What the day feels like
What the Course Feels Like
The program unfolds as a compact, practical progression: interactive classroom orientation, in‑depth pool sessions to master skills and buoyancy, then guided open‑water dives over two days at spring sites — all delivered with an emphasis on personalized attention and SSI‑standard training.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private Open Water program suits — and where to be cautious.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Open Water Diver program is structured as a 5‑day offering; open‑water certification sessions should be completed within three months of finishing classroom and pool portions.
Students must provide a personal snorkeling system — mask, fins, snorkel, boots, mouthpiece — and an SSI logbook; the Aquatic Center will fit these items and sells complete personal equipment packages (estimated $255–$325).
Course pricing varies by format (general group, semi‑private, private) and some items (personal snorkel system) are extra; students pay for open‑water park entry fees and incidentals during dive trips.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Open Water Diver program take?
The program is offered as a 5‑day course, with open‑water sessions to be completed within three months of finishing classroom and pool work.
What are the differences in cost between class formats?
Pricing is tiered by format: general group tuition is listed at $400 (with a reduced $350 tuition if you purchase the minimum personal items from the Aquatic Center), semi‑private is $450, and private one‑on‑one classes are $550 per person.
What does the course fee include?
Course fees include the SSI Open Water Diver certification card, a 20‑hour comprehensive scuba course, the student kit, classroom and on‑site pool sessions, and the use of the center’s air delivery, information and buoyancy control systems for the duration of the class.
What equipment must I purchase separately?
You must supply a personal snorkeling system — mask, fins, snorkel, boots and mouthpiece — plus the SSI logbook package; if purchased from the Aquatic Center the items are fitted and priced roughly $255–$325 depending on quality.
What if I miss a class or an open‑water session?
Missed classroom or pool sessions must be made up before progressing; there is no fee for timely make‑ups. If you miss open‑water sessions you must make them up prior to certification; cancellations after a class has started are not refundable.
Can I finish the open‑water dives with a vacation dive resort?
Yes — if you choose to complete open‑water sessions with a dive resort, the Aquatic Center of Ocala will issue a Universal Referral Letter at no charge.