SSI Open Water Diver

The SSI Open Water Diver at Buddycheck is the full entry-level certification, globally recognised and valid at SSI centres around the world. Theory is covered through SSI's online digital learning platform, which students can start immediately and work through at their own pace before the in-water sessions begin.

Pool sessions take place at the Aquamathe in Letmathe (winter) or at the Heidebad and Schleddenhof outdoor pools (summer), depending on the time of year. Open-water dives to complete the certification are conducted at the Sorpesee and Möhnesee — the two local lakes that Buddycheck uses regularly for training and recreational diving.

Instruction is in German, by SSI-certified instructors. Rental equipment from the school's inventory is included in the course price, described as top-maintained gear. Course scheduling is flexible and coordinated individually with the instructor — there's no fixed calendar to slot into, which makes it practical for people with irregular work schedules.

At 429 EUR, the course price includes the digital training kit (89 EUR separately). A combined Open Water Diver plus Enriched Air Nitrox package is available for 499 EUR, which makes sense if you're planning to continue diving immediately after certification.