PADI vs SDI
At Go Dive Bayahibe, we offer both SDI and PADI diving courses, each with their unique features and benefits. Below, we explain the similarities and differences between these two leading diving organizations and why we believe SDI aligns better with our approach as a dive center.
Similarities Between SDI and PADI
- Regulation: Both agencies are governed by the RSTC (Recreational Scuba Training Council). This means that if you meet the requirements for either a PADI or an SDI Open Water Course, you are certified to dive up to 18m / 60ft anywhere in the world in conditions similar to those in which you were trained.
- Worldwide Recognition: Both agencies and licenses are recognized worldwide.
- Course Structure: Both PADI and SDI courses are divided into three parts: e-learning, confined water training sessions, and four open water checkout dives. The in-water training can be completed in as little as 3 to 4 days.
Differences Between SDI and PADI
Cost
One major difference is the price. An e-learning Open Water PADI course costs $230, while the same course with SDI costs $149 (price 2024), for the same quality of content. This price difference is due to the higher purchase prices of PADI theory materials that we, as a dive center, have to pay.
Flexibility
The philosophy of SDI offers flexibility in the student’s progress during the course, which is a significant advantage compared to PADI, which is very strict in following the exercises in a fixed order. This means our SDI instructors have the freedom to tailor the course to your specific needs, providing a more personalized and effective learning experience.
Innovation and Technology
SDI, originating from the technical diving world, embraces new technologies and offers a modern approach to recreational diving. A standout feature of their course is that you learn how to use a dive computer during your training. This helps you dive safely and extends your dive times from the very beginning. SDI was also the first diving training organization to offer e-learning, meaning that both the materials and accessibility on all platforms – from Android phones to Apple devices and from tablets to computers – are completely hassle-free and easy to use.
Teaching Methods
SDI’s training methods for some skills, such as the “out of air / share air” skill, are designed to reflect real-world scenarios and support the organization’s commitment to enhancing older diving practices and focusing on diver safety. We also encourage our students to practice their neutral buoyancy from the beginning, which we believe helps create a more complete diver.
Why Go Dive Bayahibe?
Dive into a world of standardized excellence with Go Dive Bayahibe – where global recognition meets consistent quality.
Get 20% Off
20% discount for a minimum of two people for:
- Open Water & Advanced Open Water Course
- Open Water & Rescue Course
- Advanced Open Water & Rescue Course
- 3 Specialty dives