Learning to Scuba Dive with Larry

Learn to dive with larry Wedgewood

I love teaching people how to dive and introducing them to the underwater world that covers 71% of our planet, it is incredibly rewarding with immense satisfaction. For many learning to dive is an incredible and mesmerizing experience. 

When I teach people how to dive I am very conscious and focused on safety, comfort and creating a memorable, positive experience for my students and I am extremely passionate about this. I know how beginner divers feel, and how important it is to take the right steps at the right time, at the right pace. 

People have said that if scuba diving was a religion then I would be one of it's priests. This actually maybe true (Lol).  I have certainly aligned my scuba career with the ideals and philosophy of professional dive instruction, aquatic awareness and conservation and have helped people find their why for diving. 

 I recently came across an article by a former student of mine where she wrote about her   and   her  husband's experience learning how to dive which featured me.  It's called "Learning To Dive   Without Sin In Phuket"   check it out. 

Larry's Rules (or Sins)

When learning how to dive there are rules that need to be adhered to. I try to make some of the rules fun, and difficult to forget. I have been known to, (in fun) leverage beverage fines for diving sins committed. Below is a list I watch out for.

Never ever, ever hold your breath underwater. 
Never come up with less than 500 psi of air
If you loose your buddy, wait one minute, then surface
Never leave your tank standing up unattended
Never forget to put your dust cap back on your regulator

I feel that teaching scuba diving is a privilege and consider it my responsibility to make sure my students get the best possible experience, that's why I teach scuba in small groups (not more than 4) or as private instruction. This way I can ensure personalized attention, and move at a pace that is comfortable for my students to aid learning and retention, and allow for additional training if needed. I have found out over the years, that slow is fast. 

Learning to Scuba Dive is an Incredible Mesmerizing Experience.

Copyright 2023 Larry Wedgewood | Source

Learning to dive is not only an incredible and mesmerizing experience, but it is also a gateway to a whole new world underwater. 

The process of acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to scuba dive opens up endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. From the moment you take your first breath underwater, you are transported to a realm of sensations not experience by non-divers.  

It is a chance to leave behind the bustling chaos of the surface world and immerse yourself in a serene environment where time seems to stand still. As you build upon your diving abilities, you gain access to even more remarkable sights, such as underwater caves and shipwrecks that have become home to a diverse range of marine species and vibrant colors of coral reefs and the curious marine life that surrounds you is simply breathtaking.

The underwater world is a fascinating realm that offers a glimpse into a mysterious and unknown territory. It is a place of tranquility and serenity, where time seems to stand still, and all worries and stresses evaporate with each bubble that escapes from the regulator. The feeling of weightlessness and the freedom to move in three-dimensional space adds to the enchantment of scuba diving.

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, scuba diving also offers a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving and protecting our oceans. When surrounded by the wonders of marine life, it becomes impossible to ignore the impacts of pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Divers are motivated to take action and become advocates for marine conservation, knowing that they have witnessed firsthand the fragility of this delicate ecosystem.

learning to scuba dive

Copyright 2023 Larry Wedgewood | Source

Furthermore, scuba diving provides a unique perspective on the sheer expanse of our planet's aquatic regions. The vastness of the oceans becomes evident as one dives deeper, with the endless blue stretching out as far as the eye can see. The realization that 96% of the total water volume is seawater leaves divers in awe of the magnitude of the world beneath the surface.

However, learning to dive is not just about the thrill of exploration; it also requires discipline and responsibility. Understanding the importance of safety guidelines and procedures is paramount to ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

With practice and guidance from experienced instructors, (like me) you gradually become confident in your abilities, enabling you to venture deeper into the unknown. The journey of becoming a certified diver is not only a personal accomplishment but also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passion for the underwater world. The camaraderie among divers is unparalleled, as you swap stories of underwater encounters and share tips on the best diving destinations. 

Learning to dive is an enriching and transformative process that leaves a lasting imprint on your soul and instills a lifelong understanding and love for the ocean.

The Discover Scuba Diving Mini Course

Copyright 2023 Larry Wedgewood | Source

If you're uncertain about pursuing a certified scuba diving certification, I highly recommend enrolling in the PADI Discover Scuba Diving course. PADI, which stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors, was established over 50 years ago in 1966 and has since grown to become the largest international diving certification agency worldwide. With its global recognition, PADI® remains the premier organization for scuba divers, having issued more than 28 million diver certifications since 1967.

One advantage of opting for the half-day entry-level dive course over the four-five day Open Water Course is that it allows you to experience diving without a significant financial commitment. This way, you can determine if diving is indeed the sport for you. Alternatively, if you already enjoy snorkeling and have a deep love for the ocean, bypassing Discover Scuba and investing in the comprehensive PADI Open Water Course might be a better choice.

Interested in Diving? 

If you are interested in scuba diving let me know, I'll take you diving. Contact me today


Larry Wedgewood
Larry Wedgewood

Larry is a PADI Course Director and Master Instructor with thousands of dives to his credit. Larry has worked in several dive shops around the world and co-owned and owned two PADI Dive Centre's in Phuket Thailand. Starting his scuba instructor's career in Campbell River BC, Larry has taught in cold, temperate, and tropical waters, spanning 3 continents and more than10 countries.