AVALON WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Three Days to Certification: Diving Catalina’s Open Water Class off Avalon
A three-day Open Water Diver course for beginners (ages 12+) that leads to a globally recognized certification; this guide lays out what to expect and the firm requirements for enrollment.
Three Days to Certification: Diving Catalina’s Open Water Class off Avalon.
Embark on an underwater initiation with Diving Catalina’s Open Water Diver course — a three-day, immersive program that introduces beginners to scuba and delivers the world’s most widely recognized entry-level certification. Designed for first-time divers and junior candidates, the course is taught from Avalon and combines classroom instruction, in-water practice and open-water experience over a multi-day schedule.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Globally recognized Open Water Diver credential
The course issues the Open Water Diver certification — the standard credential that many people around the world use to begin a life of recreational diving.
Beginner-friendly entry point
No prior scuba experience is required; the course is intended for learners starting from scratch, with enrollment open to anyone aged 12 and older who can meet basic swimming and health requirements.
Three days of hands-on training on Catalina
The training is delivered over a three-day period on Catalina Island, giving students concentrated time to complete skills practice and in-water dives needed for certification.
What the day feels like
What the course feels like
The Open Water class unfolds as an immersive, paced introduction to scuba: learners move from fundamental theory and confined-water practice into open-water sessions over the course of three days on Catalina. Instruction is structured for beginners and junior divers, and the program assumes no previous diving experience while requiring basic swimming ability and sound physical health.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Please allow three days on Catalina for this Open Water Diver class.
All participants under 18 must bring a signed waiver from a legal guardian; participants should come prepared to demonstrate basic swimming ability.
Participants need adequate swimming skills and must be in good physical health to enroll.
Participant rate listed at $1,054.70; contact the operator to book. The course requires a minimum of two participants.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the Open Water class take?
Please allow three days on Catalina to complete the Open Water Diver course.
What is the minimum age to enroll?
You must be at least 12 years old to enroll in the Open Water Diver course; junior participants require a guardian-signed waiver.
Do I need prior scuba experience?
No prior scuba experience is required; the course is designed for beginners.
Are there health or swimming requirements?
Yes — participants need adequate swimming skills and should be in good physical health to participate.
Is there a minimum group size?
Yes — the course requires a minimum of two participants to run.
How much does the course cost?
The participant rate is listed as $1,054.70; contact the operator to book.