Private Scuba Certifications
Our certifications cater to small, private groups of up to four divers, offering a personal and focused learning environment. For courses not requiring a pool session, the training is conveniently conducted 100% aboard our vessels, allowing you to enjoy the full dive experience without the need for shore diving.
All-Inclusive Courses
Private Instructor
Personalized instruction from our kindness-certified crew ensures a supportive and informative learning experience.
eLearning
Access your course materials electronically, allowing for flexible study times that fit your schedule (must be completed before first boat diving day).
Pool Sessions
Required only for Open Water, Rescue, and Drysuit certifications, providing a controlled environment for mastering essential skills.
Rental Gear
We provide all the necessary equipment for your dives.
Tanks and Weights
Prepped and ready aboard the boat, eliminating the need for you to carry heavy gear.
Certification Card
Your official PADI certification card will be mailed directly to your home.
Custom Logbook
A personalized logbook is also sent to your home, helping you track your diving adventures.
Free Scuba Membership Pass
As a newly certified diver, choose from five available membership plans to continue your diving journey with us at a discounted rate.
🛥️ Boat tickets for certification dives are purchased separately, allowing you to select trips that best match your schedule. Students receive a 25% discount on their certification boat tickets using the promo code WATERHORSECERT.
Certifications Offered
(beginner certification)
The gateway to scuba diving, focusing on fundamental skills and safety.
Pool Sessions: 2
Boat Dives: 5
eLearning Commitment: 5 - 10 hours
🇲🇽 Includes a trip to the Coronado Islands, in Mexico (passport required)
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$1,830 | $1,088 | $840 | $716 |
Expand your diving knowledge and experience with five adventure dives.
Boat Dives: 5
eLearning Commitment: 6 - 8 hours
🇲🇽 Optional trip to Coronado Islands, in Mexico (passport required)
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$849 $999 🇲🇽 | $587 $662 🇲🇽 | $499 $549 🇲🇽 | $455 $493 🇲🇽 |
Learn to manage diving emergencies and become a more self-reliant diver.
Pool Sessions: 1
Boat Dives: 4
eLearning Commitment: 8 - 12 hours
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$1,109 | $722 | $594 | $529 |
(formal refresher)
Refresh your scuba skills and knowledge.
Boat Dives: 2
eLearning Commitment: 2 - 3 hours
🇲🇽 Optional trip to Coronado Islands, in Mexico (passport required)
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$375 $525 🇲🇽 | $244 $319 🇲🇽 | $200 $250 🇲🇽 | $178 $216 🇲🇽 |
🎓 The ReActivate course is a formal update to your certification with a more involved eLearning segment. If you're simply looking for a quick skills refresher with our divemasters, book a VIP: Guided Experience as an add-on instead.
Extend your bottom times with the use of Enriched Air Nitrox.
Boat Dives: 2
eLearning Commitment: 2 - 4 hours
🇲🇽 Optional trip to Coronado Islands, in Mexico (passport required)
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$581 $731 🇲🇽 | $449 $524 🇲🇽 | $406 $456 🇲🇽 | $384 $ 421 🇲🇽 |
Master the techniques of diving from a boat.
Boat Dives: 2
eLearning Commitment: 2 - 4 hours
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$482 | $350 | $307 | $285 |
Explore sunken vessels safely and responsibly.
Boat Dives: 4
eLearning Commitment: 2 - 4 hours
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$744 | $482 | $394 | $350 |
Learn to dive safely to depths of 18-40 meters/60-130 feet.
Boat Dives: 4
eLearning Commitment: 2 - 4 hours
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$744 | $482 | $394 | $350 |
Dive comfortably in cooler waters using a drysuit.
Boat Dives: 2
eLearning Commitment: 2 - 4 hours
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$879 | $549 | $439 | $384 |
Capture the beauty of the underwater world with your camera.
Boat Dives: 2
eLearning Commitment: 2-4 hours
🇲🇽 Includes a trip to the Coronado Islands, in Mexico (passport required)
1 diver | 2 divers (each) | 3 divers (each) | 4 divers (each) |
$632 | $425 | $357 | $322 |
How Our Courses Work
1. Fill out your custom request form
To request a private class, fill out our Custom Request Form. Alternatively, you can directly add certifications like ReActivate, Boat Diver, Nitrox, and Underwater Photography to your online booking.
2. Approve your custom class plan
Upon receiving your request, we'll create a custom class plan for you, selecting boat trips that align with your availability. Once we send you the plan and it meets your approval, you can proceed with the full payment to secure your spot.
3. Meet your instructor on a quick call
After your plan is set, we'll match you with one of our skilled instructors, who will reach out to you for an introductory call. Expect a call from 858-800-4860, during which your instructor will provide a course overview and discuss meetup plans.
4. Complete your eLearning
Your instructor will email you the login details for your eLearning materials. It's important to complete the theoretical part of your course before your scheduled dives to ensure you're fully prepared for the practical sessions.
5. Complete your boat dives
All you need to do next is show up for your boat dives (or pool sessions, if applicable) at the prearranged times. Our crew will be ready to welcome you and guide you through the diving experience.
6. Put your new certification to work
Upon fulfilling all course requirements, your certification card and custom logbook will be mailed to your home. Additionally, you'll receive an email with a promo code, allowing you to choose one of our scuba membership passes at no additional cost, welcoming you into our diving community.