USVI-On-Line

You may have read on the OT board that my 10 year old little man did a discover scuba course and just could not get enough of it.

He is currently working toward his Padi Master Seal Certificate (that's 15 dives including Seal Team), and the kid is only breathing for his next dive.

Apparently from what I am told, the boy is pretty good at it. Because of his age, I just don't feel good about letting him certify. I just think 10 is too young. The maturity level. He's my baby. I'm scared.

He is begging me to let him dive in the ocean. Are there any shallow diving options that would not include certification. I thought maybe he would enjoy the Snuba.

Any advice?

Collete does a shore dive from Haulover. Its pretty shallow and I (A TOTAL CHICKEN/FREAK/WIMP) felt very comfortable. There is a beautiful reef with lots to see and fairly close to shore you can get down to about 30-40 feet.

There are some places where you can get a resort course done - it's like a crash certification course that allows you to dive under the supervision of the course instructor.

I have two boys, both of which got their Jr. Open Water certification at 12. I was still nervous about them diving in the ocean, even though I've been with them every time (at 17 and 15 they've become pretty good divers).

I can imagine how anxious your son is, but if it were me, I'd just have him concenrate on becoming as good of a swimmer and snorkler as he can until you're ready to let him get that c-card. If I had not been able to dive with my boys each time I likely would not have let them until they were 14.

augie wrote:I can imagine how anxious your son is, but if it were me, I'd just have him concenrate on becoming as good of a swimmer and snorkler as he can until you're ready to let him get that c-card. If I had not been able to dive with my boys each time I likely would not have let them until they were 14.

I totally hear you! He is a strong swimmer and snorkels better than me, but he is sooo young. I was thinking more along the lines of 16 and I would not even consider letting him go out without proper supervision AND his dad. I don't do scuba! My bum is happy staying ON the surface!!!