PADI Courses?

Question

I want to learn how to scuba dive & then after a few dives abroad, I would like to go to S Africa & do the Great White cage diving thingymebob. Anyone know anywhere around Manchester that I can do the necessary courses & how much it would all cost?

Answer 1

Here's the link to PADI's affiliates in and around Manchester. http://www.padi.com/padi/common/dcnr_distance/results.aspx?cityid=2743230&country=UNITED%20KINGDOM&city=Manchester
I surprised, however, that while living in the UK, you don't take advantage of BSAC for a certifying agency. Their training is far superior to PADI for about the same cost and also recognized throughout the world. I'm PADI, but will always dive with a BSAC diver over a PADI diver, given the choice.
Generally an open water cert will be in the $300 canadian range ( if there's stiff competition) upwards to $350. Those are prices in my area (Toronto Canada) for a PADI open water. That will include books, instruction in and out of water, exam, pool time, your open water dives for certification (not travel expenses) and rental of most of the dive equipment you'll need. Most shops insist that you purchase personal gear, such as fins, snorkel and mask prior to starting the course although some will lend them to you. It's better to buy though, you'll have a better mask fit and these basic items you'll need for every dive.

Answer 2

www.padi.com. All the available dive centres in Manchester are on there. Its about £350 i think but you can email them and ask.