For the ultimate access to underwater adventure, nothing beats scuba diving. Breathing below the surface is far easier than most people think. Many are put off by the idea of a long and complicated certification process, but at Kirra Dive, we make it simple and enjoyable. Instead of being stuck in a classroom, you’ll complete your theory online at your own pace from home before getting in the water to start your training.

Day One – Pool Training

Once your theory is complete, we begin in the pool. This is the fun part — diving. Under the guidance of a certified instructor, you’ll develop your basic scuba skills in a safe, controlled environment until you're comfortable and confident. The pool session sets the foundation for your open water dives and helps you become familiar with the equipment and safety protocols.

Day Two – Ocean Dives at Jack Evans Boat Harbour

After mastering your pool skills, we’ll take you into open water for your first two training dives. These are conducted in the calm, shallow waters of Jack Evans Boat Harbour, a perfect location to build your confidence and apply everything you’ve learned. During your dives, you may encounter turtles, stingrays, sea pike, pineapple fish, seasonal octopus, and the beautiful Tweed River angelfish. After completing your required skills at the start of the dive, our team will guide you on a tour of the site to enjoy the marine life and surroundings.

Day Three – Final Dive and Optional Upgrade

Your final training dive will also take place at Jack Evans Boat Harbour. If the weather is suitable and you're feeling confident, you will have the option to upgrade your final dive to a boat dive at Cook Island for just $100. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience a more advanced dive site with rich marine biodiversity as a memorable finish to your certification.

Post-Certification Offer – Cook Island Double Dive

After certification, you’ll be eligible for a special student price on a double boat dive to Cook Island. This offer can be used the following day or saved for a later date that suits you. You’ll also receive a credit to use toward a future course, equipment purchase, or boat dive voucher.

Certification and Benefits

Upon completion, you will be certified as a PADI Open Water Diver. This internationally recognised certification allows you to dive independently to a depth of 18 metres anywhere in the world. You will be able to hire scuba gear, book dive tours, and continue your diving education without repeating beginner lessons.

Understanding Scuba Gear

Scuba diving equipment allows you to breathe, see, and move comfortably underwater. When you're starting out, it’s important to choose gear that fits well and suits your needs. Fit, comfort, and suitability are key — but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Kirra Dive is an authorised supplier of leading scuba brands including Mares, Aqualung, Oceanic, and Hollis. If you're unsure about what gear to get, our staff are happy to assist you in finding the right equipment. Feel free to contact us on 07 5536 6622 for advice.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your course for any reason, we offer a refund or store credit with reasonable notice. Please note that the PADI eLearning code, valued at $150, is non-refundable. However, it can be used at any PADI dive shop worldwide and does not expire. We recommend reviewing the medical form in advance before booking, as refunds are not issued if you’re found unfit to dive without prior medical clearance.

Course Completion Requirements

In the unlikely event that you're unable to meet the performance requirements to complete the course, including skill demonstrations, understanding of theory, or if you have a change of mind, we will record and sign off the skills you have completed and refer you to return another day or to another dive shop. Because the course involves the use of equipment, air fills, and staff time, we are unable to refund the remaining cost of the course. However, in most cases, we will offer you the opportunity to return and complete the course at no extra charge.