PADI advanced open water - when should I take the course

TODD GROSS   Dec 06, 2024

Advanced Open Water Scuba Diver Course: What It Involves, How Long It Takes, and When to Take It

 

What Does the Advanced Open Water Course Involve?

The Advanced Open Water (AOW) Diver course is designed to build confidence through experience rather than exams. You’ll complete five adventure dives, each focused on a specific skill area:

• Deep Dive – Learn how your body and air consumption change at depth (up to 30 m / 100 ft).
• Underwater Navigation – Improve compass use and natural navigation skills.
• Three Elective Adventure Dives – Common options include:
  • Peak Performance Buoyancy
  • Night Diving
  • Wreck Diving
  • Drift Diving
  • Search & Recovery

Each dive includes a short knowledge review and hands-on instruction with an instructor—no final written exam.

How Long Does the Advanced Open Water Course Take?

Most divers complete the AOW course in:

• 2 days (typical)
• 1 weekend or
• 2–3 days while on a dive holiday

The theory is usually completed online beforehand, so your time is spent almost entirely in the water.

Is It Worth Doing Advanced Open Water Right After Open Water?

Yes—especially if you’re actively diving. Many divers take AOW immediately after Open Water because:

✔ Skills are fresh and easier to build on
✔ Instructor supervision boosts confidence early
✔ You gain access to deeper and more exciting dive sites
✔ You become a more comfortable, safer diver faster

If you’re nervous or haven’t dived in a while, doing a refresher dive first is a great option.

Who Should Take the Advanced Open Water Course?

• Newly certified divers wanting confidence
• Traveling divers who don’t want site restrictions
• Anyone planning to take Rescue Diver or specialty courses
• Divers who want better buoyancy, navigation, and awareness

Ready to dive deeper, explore more, and feel confident underwater?