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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about diving with us (and in general)
About Costa de Cocos Dive Centre
What is Costa de Cocos Dive Centre, and where is it located?
Costa de Cocos Dive Centre is a renowned dive center located in Xcalak, Mexico.
What services does Costa de Cocos Dive Centre offer?
Costa de Cocos Dive Centre offers a wide range of diving services, including guided dives, scuba certifications, equipment rentals, and dive trips to various dive sites.
Getting Started with Scuba Diving
Where do I start if I want to learn scuba diving with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
To get started with scuba diving, you should feel comfortable with the dive shop and then sign up for the Basic SCUBA Diver Course to learn how to dive safely.
What certifying agency does Costa de Cocos Dive Centre offer courses through?
Costa de Cocos Dive Centre offers courses through SSI (Scuba Schools International), and getting certified with SSI allows you to dive anywhere in the world.
Is it essential to choose a specific certifying agency for scuba training, or can I switch between agencies?
The choice of the certifying agency is flexible as they all adhere to the minimum standards set forth by the ISO. What matters most is the knowledge and teaching approach of the instructor. Costa de Cocos Dive Centre prefers SSI and offers different teaching approaches to accommodate diverse learning styles.
What equipment do I need to purchase for scuba diving, and what does Costa de Cocos Dive Centre provide?
Costa de Cocos Dive Centre recommends owning your mask, snorkel, fins, and booties for a personalized fit and comfort. They provide equipment like dive regulators, BCDs, dive computers, tanks, wetsuits, and weight systems as part of the course package.
Course Flexibility and Schedule
How long does it take to get certified with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
The certification process can vary, with courses available from short programs spanning two weekends to more extended programs. Costa de Cocos Dive Centre prioritizes making divers comfortable in the water and tailors the training accordingly.
I have a busy schedule and cannot make the scheduled class times. Can I still get certified with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
Yes, Costa de Cocos Dive Centre is flexible and will work around your schedule to accommodate your scuba diving training.
What if I don’t have anyone to take the scuba diving class with or to go diving with after certification?
You can still participate in the scuba diving class as all divers dive with a buddy. During certification dives, you can join the group, and experienced divers and instructors will be there to assist and build your confidence.
Safety and Concerns
Should I worry about encountering sharks while diving with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
Shark encounters are rare during dives, and Costa de Cocos Dive Centre emphasizes that sharks are more afraid of humans. The dive center follows safety protocols to ensure enjoyable and secure dives.
Certification Dives and Post-Certification
Where are the certification dives conducted by Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
Certification dives take place in various locations
How many dives are required for certification with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
The number of dives required can vary depending on the certification agency, but it can be as few as four dives for certain certifications.
Can I dive with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre after I get certified?
Yes, Costa de Cocos Dive Centre encourages certified divers to join their diving trips and meet other divers to enhance the diving experience.
Personal Health and Physical Requirements
What do I do if I wear eyeglasses or contacts?
Divers who wear soft contact lenses usually have no problems diving with them. If you wear hard lenses, gas-permeable lenses are recommended for diving. Prescription lenses can also be put into your dive mask.
What if it has been a while since I have been diving?
Costa de Cocos Dive Centre offers refresher courses for divers who haven’t been diving for a while to help them regain confidence and refresh their skills.
Is there any age requirement to take scuba diving lessons with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
Divers can start as young as 10 years old, and individuals younger than 15 can earn the Junior Open Water Diver certification.
What physical shape do I need to be in to scuba dive with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
Generally, anyone in average health who can swim and is at least 10 years old can participate. A routine medical questionnaire may be required, and individuals with certain medical conditions should consult with their physician before diving.
I experience ear discomfort when diving or snorkeling. Will this prevent me from becoming a scuba diver?
Ear discomfort due to water pressure is normal, but scuba divers are taught techniques to adjust for pressure changes. It should not prevent you from becoming a scuba diver.
Does any medical history, such as diabetes, asthma, or allergies, prevent someone from diving?
Not necessarily. Medical conditions related to ears, sinuses, respiratory and heart function, or altered consciousness may require assessment by a physician. Costa de Cocos Dive Centre can guide you in obtaining appropriate medical clearance if needed.
What are the most common injuries or sicknesses associated with diving?
Common issues include sunburn and seasickness, both of which can be prevented. Injuries from marine life are often minor scrapes or stings that can be avoided by wearing an exposure suit and being cautious.
Do women have special concerns about diving?
Aside from pregnancy, there are no specific concerns for women in diving. Pregnant women are advised to avoid diving due to unknown effects on the fetus.
Equipment and Gear
Do I need to buy all my scuba equipment before taking lessons?
While you don’t need to purchase all equipment, owning your mask, snorkel, and fins is recommended for comfort and familiarity. Costa de Cocos Dive Centre provides other scuba gear for rent.
How do I know what the best scuba gear is for me?
There is no universal “best” gear, but the professionals at Costa de Cocos Dive Centre can help you find scuba gear that suits your preferences, fit, and budget.
Depth and Air Supply
How deep can you go when scuba diving with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
Recreational scuba diving has a limit of 130 feet, but beginners typically stay shallower, around 40-60 feet.
What happens if I use up all my air while diving with Costa de Cocos Dive Centre?
You’ll have a gauge to monitor your air supply, and if you were to run out, your buddy will have a spare mouthpiece for sharing air while swimming to the surface.
What if I feel claustrophobic while scuba diving?
Many find scuba diving’s weightlessness freeing. If a mask makes you feel closed in, translucent models are available. Instructors at Costa de Cocos Dive Centre help you become comfortable with each stage of learning at your own pace.
