If you love scuba diving and want to explore deeper dive sites, improve your skills, and build more confidence underwater, the PADI Advanced Open Water Course is the perfect next step. Whether you’ve just completed your Open Water certification or have already logged several dives, this course helps take your experience to the next level.
In this blog, we will explain the eligibility, duration, and maximum depth allowed in the Advanced Open Water Course. We’ll also give you helpful tips and why Dive Andaman is a great choice to complete your training.
What Is the PADI Advanced Open Water Course?
The PADI Advanced Open Water Course is the second level of scuba diving certification from PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors). It is designed to expand your knowledge and improve your diving abilities in a short time.
Unlike the first course (Open Water), which focuses on basic diving skills, the Advanced course is about learning by doing. It includes five different dives, also called Adventure Dives, that help you try new types of diving and improve your underwater performance.
Who Is Eligible for the Advanced Open Water Course?
To join the PADI Advanced Open Water Course, you must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum age:
- 12 years old for Junior Advanced Open Water Diver
- 15 years old for Advanced Open Water Diver
- Previous certification:
You must already be a certified PADI Open Water Diver or have an equivalent certification from another recognised agency. - Fitness to dive:
You should be in good health and comfortable in the water. A medical questionnaire may be required before diving.
Duration of the Course
The Advanced Open Water Course can be completed in 2 to 3 days, depending on your schedule and the dive centre’s plan. At Dive Andaman, we offer flexible timing so you can enjoy your training during your holiday without any stress.
Here’s how the course is usually divided:
Day 1:
- Introduction and theory briefing
- First two adventure dives (usually includes Underwater Navigation)
Day 2:
- Three more adventure dives (one must be Deep Diving)
- Review and certification
You don’t have to spend hours in a classroom. The theory part is short and focused, and most of the course happens in the water.
What Is the Maximum Depth in the Advanced Open Water Course?
One of the most exciting parts of this course is learning to dive deeper.
- Maximum depth:
- 30 metres (100 feet) for adults
- 21 metres (70 feet) for Junior Advanced Open Water Divers (age 12–14)
- 30 metres (100 feet) for adults
The Deep Dive is a required part of the course. It teaches you how to manage air supply, plan deeper dives, and deal with potential challenges at depth.
What Dives Are Included in the Course?
In total, you will complete five adventure dives.
Two compulsory dives:
- Deep Dive – Learn how to dive beyond 18 metres safely
- Underwater Navigation – Practice using a compass and natural clues to find your way underwater
Choose three optional dives:
These can include:
- Night Diving
- Peak Performance Buoyancy
- Wreck Diving
- Boat Diving
- Fish Identification
- Underwater Photography
- Drift Diving
At Dive Andaman, we help you choose adventure dives based on your interest and local dive conditions in Havelock Island.
Why Take the Advanced Open Water Course?
There are many reasons to take the PADI Advanced Open Water Course:
- Go deeper – Explore beautiful dive sites beyond the 18-metre limit of Open Water divers
- Try new experiences – Like night diving, wreck diving, or underwater photography
- Improve your skills – Especially buoyancy, underwater navigation, and air control
- Gain confidence – Feel safer and more comfortable in different underwater environments
- Dive with fewer limits – Many dive sites around the world require advanced certification
It’s also a great way to meet new people and enjoy guided dives with professionals.
Why Choose Dive Andaman for the Course?
Dive Andaman is a top-rated PADI Dive Centre located in Havelock Island, one of the most beautiful diving destinations in India. Here’s why it’s a great place to do your Advanced Open Water Course:
- Experienced instructors – Our certified PADI professionals provide safe and personalised training
- Scenic dive sites – Explore coral reefs, wrecks, and marine life in clear waters
- Small group sizes – More individual attention and a relaxed learning pace
- Modern equipment – High-quality gear is included in your course package
- Flexible schedule – We work around your travel plans
Read More : Boost Your Confidence with PADI Advanced Open Water Training
Final Thoughts
The PADI Advanced Open Water Course is a fun and exciting way to build your diving skills and explore the underwater world in a deeper and safer way. It’s not only about going deeper but also about becoming a better, more confident diver.
If you’re planning a diving trip to the Andaman Islands, especially Havelock Island, this is a great opportunity to take the course with Dive Andaman. With our experienced team and beautiful dive sites, you’ll have a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable diving experience.
