Open Water Diver Course in Sharm El Sheikh: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book (2026 Guide)
- Jul 3
- 15 min read
Updated: Aug 3
Thinking about Becoming a Certified Scuba Diver? Discover the Open Water Diver Course!
You're probably wondering whether scuba diving is difficult, if you're too old to start, whether you'll see sharks, or what actually happens during an Open Water Diver course. You're not alone. These are some of the most common questions I hear from first-time divers at Red Sea Marine Diving Center in Sharm El Sheikh. After introducing hundreds of people to the underwater world of the Red Sea, I've learned that almost everyone arrives with a mixture of excitement and nerves.
The good news is that learning to dive is far easier—and much more enjoyable—than most people expect. This guide answers the questions beginners ask most often, explains exactly what happens during the course, and shares advice based on real experience teaching new divers in one of the world's most famous diving destinations. Whether you're visiting Egypt for a holiday or planning your very first scuba certification, this guide will help you decide if the Open Water Diver course is right for you.
Table of Contents
What Is the Open Water Diver Course?
Why Learn to Dive in Sharm El Sheikh?
Why Choose Red Sea Marine?
Who Can Join the Course?
Do You Need to Be a Good Swimmer?
Is Scuba Diving Dangerous?
Am I Too Old to Learn?
What Will I See Underwater During My Course?
What Actually Happens During the Open Water Diver Course?
10. Frequently Asked Questions About the Open Water Diver Course
What Is the Open Water Diver Course?
The Open Water Diver course is the world's most popular beginner scuba certification. It is designed for people with no previous diving experience and teaches you everything you need to dive safely with a buddy anywhere in the world. During the course, you'll learn:
How scuba equipment works
Underwater communication
Buoyancy control
Dive planning
Safety procedures
Emergency skills
Marine conservation and responsible diving
Once you've completed the course, you'll receive an internationally recognized certification that allows you to dive to 18 metres (60 feet) with another certified diver. For many people, this certificate becomes the beginning of a lifelong passion for exploring the underwater world.
Why Learn to Dive in Sharm El Sheikh?
There are many places where you can become a certified diver, but few offer the combination of conditions found in Sharm El Sheikh. The northern Red Sea is famous for its:
Crystal-clear water
Excellent underwater visibility
Warm temperatures throughout much of the year
Colourful coral reefs
Incredible marine biodiversity
Calm conditions suitable for beginners
Instead of spending your first dives in cold or murky water, you'll be learning in one of the world's most beautiful marine environments. One of the biggest advantages is that many of the training dives can begin directly from the shore. At Red Sea Marine, students start learning on our beautiful house reef, where calm conditions allow new divers to build confidence while already surrounded by coral formations and tropical fish. That means your first underwater experience isn't in a plain swimming pool—you'll already be exploring part of the Red Sea while learning essential diving skills.
Why Choose Red Sea Marine for Your Open Water Course?
Every dive centre teaches the same core certification standards, but the learning experience can be very different. One thing I've learned over the years is that confidence grows faster in a relaxed environment. That's why we focus on:
Small Training Groups
Smaller groups mean your instructor has more time to work with each student individually. Instead of feeling rushed, you'll have the opportunity to repeat skills until you're comfortable. Everyone learns differently, and we believe diving should never feel like a race. Many students tell us this personal approach helped them feel calm, especially during their first dives.
Learning at Your Own Pace
Not everyone arrives with the same confidence level. Some students are natural swimmers. Others have never worn a mask before. Our instructors adapt the course to each student's comfort level while ensuring all required skills are completed to international standards. If you need extra time to master a skill, that's perfectly normal. Learning to dive isn't about finishing as quickly as possible. It's about becoming a safe, confident diver.
A Relaxed Atmosphere
Many people arrive expecting the course to be stressful. Instead, they often leave, saying how much fun they had. Our goal isn't simply to certify divers. It's to help you enjoy every step of becoming one. By creating a friendly and supportive atmosphere, students can focus on learning rather than worrying about making mistakes.
Who Can Join the Open Water Diver Course?
One of the biggest misconceptions about scuba diving is that it's only for athletes or experienced swimmers. In reality, the course is suitable for most healthy people. You can usually join if you:
Are at least 10 years old
Are in reasonable health
Feel comfortable in the water
Can complete the required swimming assessment
Have a sense of adventure
People from all walks of life become certified every year. I've taught:
University students
Families
Retired couples
Solo travellers
Honeymooners
People celebrating milestone birthdays
Age alone is rarely the deciding factor.
Do You Need to Be a Strong Swimmer?
This is probably the question I hear most often. No—you don't need to be an Olympic swimmer. However, you do need to be comfortable in the water. During the course, you'll complete a simple swimming assessment that demonstrates you're able to look after yourself in the water. Many people assume scuba diving involves constant hard swimming. It doesn't. Your scuba equipment, buoyancy control device (BCD), and fins do much of the work. Once underwater, you'll quickly discover that diving is more about breathing slowly, staying relaxed, and moving efficiently than swimming hard. If you're unsure whether your swimming ability is sufficient, simply contact us before booking—we're always happy to discuss your situation honestly.
Is Scuba Diving Dangerous?
Like any adventure activity, scuba diving carries risks. The difference is that modern recreational diving is built around training, preparation, and safety. During your Open Water course, you'll learn:
How to use your equipment correctly
How to plan dives safely
How to monitor your air supply
How to communicate underwater
How to prevent common problems
What to do if something unexpected happens
By the time you earn your certification, these skills become second nature. One piece of advice I give every new student is simple: Slow down. Many beginners think they need to move quickly underwater. In reality, diving becomes easier when you slow your breathing, relax your mind, and enjoy the surroundings. A calm diver uses less air, has better buoyancy, and enjoys the experience much more.
Am I Too Old to Learn Scuba Diving?
Absolutely not. I regularly receive enquiries from people asking: "I'm 50 years old—is it too late?" The answer is usually no. I've introduced people of many different ages to scuba diving. What matters far more than age is your overall health and willingness to learn. Some of my calmest, most confident students are those who discover diving later in life. If you have a medical condition, you may simply need medical clearance from your physician before participating. Our team can guide you through that process before your holiday.
What Will I See Underwater During My Course?
One of the best things about learning to dive in the Red Sea is that your training dives aren't just about practicing skills. They're also your first opportunity to explore one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Depending on the season and conditions, students often encounter:
Elegant rays gliding across the sandy bottom
Green turtles feeding near the reef
Colourful coral reef fish
Large groupers resting around coral formations
Huge schools of shimmering glassfish
Countless species of vibrant hard and soft corals
Many new divers are surprised by how quickly they forget their practiced skills. Once they become comfortable underwater, they begin noticing the incredible marine life surrounding them. One question I hear frequently is: "Will I see sharks?" The Red Sea is home to several shark species, but sightings during beginner training dives are relatively uncommon. More importantly, sharks are not the aggressive predators they're often portrayed to be in films. They play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems and, when encountered responsibly, are considered one of the ocean's most fascinating animals rather than something to fear.
What Actually Happens During the Open Water Diver Course?
One of the biggest questions I receive is: "What will I actually do each day?" Many people imagine long classroom sessions followed by difficult exercises in deep water. The reality is much more relaxed. Your course is designed to build your confidence gradually. Every skill you learn prepares you for the next one, and you'll never be asked to do something before you're ready.
At Red Sea Marine, we also understand that every holiday is different. Some guests arrive early in the morning, while others land in Sharm El Sheikh in the afternoon or evening. That's why we always discuss the best schedule for your course based on your arrival time, ensuring you get the most enjoyable experience possible without feeling rushed.
Before You Even Arrive
One of the easiest ways to save time during your holiday is to complete the theory online before travelling. Many students choose the PADI eLearning option, allowing them to study whenever it's convenient at home. Instead of spending valuable holiday time in a classroom, you can arrive having already completed much of the academic portion of the course. This means you'll spend more time doing what you came for—diving. Of course, if you prefer learning with an instructor in person, that's also an option. We'll help you choose the approach that suits you best.
Day One – Welcome to Your New Adventure
Your first day starts with a warm welcome at the dive centre. After meeting your instructor, we'll complete the necessary paperwork and explain how the course is structured. This is also the perfect opportunity to ask any questions before entering the water. Many students arrive feeling nervous. By the end of the briefing, most are simply excited. We'll explain:
The course schedule
Safety procedures
Equipment you'll be using
What you'll learn first
What to expect over the coming days
There are no trick questions or surprise challenges. Everything is explained clearly before you begin.
Getting Fitted with Your Equipment
For many beginners, this is the first time they've ever seen scuba equipment up close. Don't worry—it looks far more complicated than it actually is. Your instructor will carefully help you choose equipment that fits properly, including:
Mask
Fins
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
Regulator
Cylinder
Wetsuit
We'll also explain what each piece of equipment does and why it's important. A properly fitted mask and comfortable equipment make a huge difference to your confidence underwater. That's why we never rush this stage.
Your First Time Breathing Underwater
This is the moment almost every new diver remembers forever. You'll put on your scuba equipment, enter the calm waters of our house reef, take your first breath underwater, and suddenly realize something incredible... You're breathing comfortably beneath the surface. Almost everyone smiles. Some laugh. Others pause for a few seconds to take in the experience. It's one of those moments that stays with you for life.
Why We Start at Our House Reef
Unlike many dive destinations that rely heavily on swimming pools, our confined-water training takes place in the calm, sheltered conditions of our beautiful house reef whenever possible. This gives beginners a unique experience. Instead of staring at pool tiles, you'll be surrounded by:
Living coral reefs
Schools of colourful fish
Crystal-clear Red Sea water
Natural underwater scenery
The environment feels more exciting while still providing calm conditions for learning. It's the perfect balance between training and exploration.
Learning the Essential Skills
Every certified diver around the world learns the same core skills. These include:
Clearing water from your mask
Recovering your regulator
Floating comfortably at the surface
Equalising your ears
Controlling your buoyancy
Sharing air with a buddy
Safe ascents and descents
Some of these skills sound intimidating when you read about them. In reality, they're introduced one step at a time. Your instructor demonstrates each skill first. Then you'll practice it at your own pace until you feel comfortable. There is no pressure to be perfect immediately. Everyone learns differently, and that's completely normal.
One of the Biggest Myths About Learning to Dive
Many people worry about one particular skill: "Do I really have to take my mask off underwater?" Yes—but not in the way most people imagine. This exercise is performed in calm, shallow water with your instructor right beside you. The purpose isn't to make you uncomfortable. It's to teach you that even if water enters your mask during a future dive, you'll know exactly how to clear it calmly. By the time most students finish this exercise, they wonder why they were worried in the first place. Confidence replaces fear surprisingly quickly.
Moving Into Open Water
Once you've mastered the basic skills, it's time to begin your open water dives. This is where everything comes together. Instead of simply practicing exercises, you'll begin exploring the reef while applying everything you've learned. You'll gradually:
Improve your buoyancy
Learn to use less air
Become more comfortable underwater
Navigate with your instructor
Observe marine life without disturbing it
Every dive builds naturally on the previous one. Most students are amazed by how quickly their confidence grows.
What Marine Life Will You See?
One of the advantages of learning in the Red Sea is that even your training dives are full of life. It's common to encounter:
Green Turtles
Watching a turtle glide effortlessly across the reef is an unforgettable experience for many first-time divers.
Rays
Often resting on sandy patches or gracefully swimming past, rays are among the highlights of many beginner dives.
Groupers
These curious fish are often much larger than students expect and are regular residents of many Red Sea reefs.
Glassfish
Large shimmering schools of tiny glassfish often create spectacular underwater scenes, especially around coral formations.
Colourful Reef Fish
Butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, wrasses, surgeonfish, and dozens of other tropical species provide colour everywhere you look.
Many students finish their first dives saying they forgot they were still in a training course because they became so fascinated by the marine life.
Will I See Sharks?
This question comes up almost every day. The short answer is: Maybe—but probably not during your beginner training dives. Sharks naturally live in the Red Sea, and experienced divers occasionally encounter species such as reef sharks in suitable locations. However, beginner training dives are conducted in calm, carefully selected sites chosen for safety and comfort—not for shark encounters. It's also important to understand that Hollywood has given sharks an unfair reputation. In reality, sharks are generally shy animals that avoid human interaction. They are essential to healthy ocean ecosystems and are one of the species that many divers dream of seeing one day. Ironically, after becoming certified, many divers eventually ask the opposite question: "Where can I dive to see sharks?"
Why Small Groups Make Such a Difference
Every dive centre follows the same certification standards. The difference is how those standards are taught. At Red Sea Marine, I believe that smaller groups create better divers. When your instructor isn't responsible for a large number of students, they have more time to:
Answer questions
Correct small mistakes before they become habits
Help nervous students gain confidence
Focus on buoyancy and breathing techniques
Allow everyone to progress comfortably
Learning to dive isn't a race. Our goal isn't simply to issue a certification card. Our goal is to help you become a diver who feels confident enough to enjoy the underwater world for years to come.
Our Best Advice for Every New Diver
If there's one piece of advice I repeat more than anything else, it's this: Relax your mind and slow down. Beginners often think they need to swim faster, breathe harder, or constantly look around. Experienced divers do the opposite. They move slowly. They breathe calmly. They let the ocean come to them. The slower you become underwater, the more you'll notice—and the more enjoyable every dive becomes. Many students discover that scuba diving is one of the few activities where slowing down actually makes you better.
You're Closer Than You Think
By the end of your training dives, you'll likely be amazed at how much you've accomplished in just a few days. The nervous excitement you felt on day one is gradually replaced by confidence. You'll find yourself hovering effortlessly above coral reefs, communicating with your buddy using simple hand signals, and exploring a world that once seemed completely out of reach. And the best part? You're just getting started.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Open Water Diver Course
After years of teaching new divers in Sharm El Sheikh, I've noticed that almost everyone asks the same questions before booking. Some are practical, while others are based on common myths about scuba diving. Let's answer them honestly.
Is Scuba Diving Dangerous?
This is usually the first question people ask. The answer is that scuba diving is an adventure activity, but it is also one of the most carefully taught recreational sports in the world. Every Open Water Diver course is built around safety. Before you're certified, you'll learn:
How your equipment works
How to plan dives
How to communicate underwater
How to prevent problems before they happen
How to respond calmly if something unexpected occurs
The goal isn't just to teach you how to dive. It's to teach you how to become a safe and confident diver. Most new students are surprised by how controlled and relaxed the learning process actually is.
Will My Ears Hurt?
Your ears shouldn't hurt while diving. As you descend, the pressure around you increases. During the course, your instructor will teach you how to equalize your ears gently and frequently. The secret is simple: Equalize early and often. Never wait until your ears begin to hurt. Most students learn this technique within minutes, and after a few dives, it becomes completely natural. If you have a cold, sinus infection, or blocked nose, it's usually best to postpone diving until you're feeling better.
What If I Panic Underwater?
This is one of the biggest fears beginners have. The reality is that panic usually comes from feeling rushed or overwhelmed. That's why I constantly remind my students: Relax your mind. Slow down. Breathe. Your instructor is always close by during training, and every new skill is introduced gradually. You are never expected to do something before you're ready. Many students who describe themselves as "nervous" before the course are amazed at how calm they feel after just a few dives.
Can I Wear Glasses?
Yes. Many divers wear glasses on land. If you wear contact lenses, you can usually dive with them while wearing your mask. If your prescription is stronger, prescription dive masks are also available. Our instructors can help you choose the best option before your course begins.
Do I Need to Buy My Own Equipment?
No. One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is buying expensive equipment before they've even completed their first course. During your Open Water course, all the equipment you need is provided. After certification, you'll have a much better understanding of what suits you. If you decide to purchase your own equipment later, you'll be able to make an informed decision instead of buying something you'll eventually replace.
What Should I Bring?
Fortunately, not very much. For your course, you'll usually need:
Swimwear
Towel
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat
Reusable water bottle
A smile and a willingness to learn
We'll provide the scuba equipment.
What Happens If I Can't Complete a Skill Immediately?
Nothing unusual. Everyone learns differently. Some people master buoyancy immediately. Others find mask skills easier. Some need a little extra practice. That's completely normal. Our instructors are interested in building confident divers—not rushing students through the course. If you need additional time with a particular skill, we'll work with you until you're comfortable.
Will I See Amazing Marine Life Even During Training?
Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of learning in Sharm El Sheikh is that your training dives already take place in an incredible underwater environment. Students regularly encounter:
Green turtles
Rays
Groupers
Colourful reef fish
Large schools of glassfish
Beautiful coral gardens
Every dive is different. Nature decides what you'll see. That's one of the reasons diving never becomes boring.
What's the Biggest Mistake People Make?
Without question: Choosing the Cheapest Course. It's understandable to compare prices. Everyone wants good value. But remember: You're not simply buying a certification card. You're investing in skills that you'll use every time you dive for the rest of your life. Small groups. Patient instructors. Well-maintained equipment. Enough time to practice. These things matter far more than saving a small amount of money. A quality course builds confidence. Confidence makes diving enjoyable.
Is Learning Quickly Better?
Not necessarily. Some people ask if they can finish the course as quickly as possible. My advice is simple: Don't rush. You'll remember your instructor for a few days. You'll remember your diving skills for years. Taking an extra hour to improve your buoyancy or become more comfortable underwater is never time wasted.
What Happens After I'm Certified?
This is where the real adventure begins. Your Open Water certification allows you to dive around the world. Many of my students immediately continue exploring the Red Sea by joining:
Others return home and begin diving in completely different environments—from tropical islands to freshwater lakes. Once you're certified, the ocean becomes much more accessible.
Why So Many People Fall in Love with Diving
Ask experienced divers why they keep returning to the water, and you'll hear many different answers. Some love marine life. Others enjoy underwater photography. Some appreciate the feeling of weightlessness. For many, diving becomes a way to disconnect from the busy pace of everyday life. Underwater, your phone doesn't ring. Emails can wait. The only thing that matters is your breathing and the incredible world around you. It's one of the few activities where slowing down allows you to experience more.
Why We Love Teaching New Divers
People often ask what it's like teaching beginners every week. The answer is surprisingly simple. I never get tired of watching someone's world change. Every course has one unforgettable moment. It happens when a nervous student surfaces after a successful dive, removes their mask, and smiles from ear to ear. That smile says everything. It tells me they've discovered something they never imagined they could do. Watching confidence replace uncertainty is one of the most rewarding parts of being a diving instructor. Long after students leave Sharm El Sheikh, many continue diving around the world. Knowing that their journey started with us is something I'm incredibly proud of.
Ready to Take Your First Breath Underwater?
If you've made it this far, chances are you're already imagining yourself exploring coral reefs, swimming alongside colourful marine life, and experiencing the incredible feeling of breathing underwater. The truth is, almost every certified diver once stood exactly where you are now. They wondered whether they were brave enough. Whether they were fit enough. Whether they were too old. Whether they'd be able to do it. Then they took that first breath underwater. The rest is history.
Whether you're travelling alone, with your partner, your family, or a group of friends, my team is here to make your first scuba diving experience enjoyable, safe, and unforgettable. We believe learning to dive should never feel intimidating. It should be exciting, personal, and fun. With small groups, experienced instructors, and the stunning reefs of Sharm El Sheikh right on our doorstep, there's no better place to begin your underwater adventure.
Your Adventure Starts Here
If you're ready to earn an internationally recognized scuba certification and discover why millions of people around the world have fallen in love with diving, I'd love to welcome you to Red Sea Marine Diving Center. Browse our Open Water Diver Course page to see what's included, check available dates, or contact us if you have any questions. We're always happy to help you choose the option that's right for you. I look forward to helping you take your very first breath underwater—and hopefully, the first of many unforgettable dives to come.
Written by the team at Red Sea Marine Diving Center, Sharm El Sheikh, where we have introduced hundreds of divers to the underwater world of the Red Sea.
