You want to learn to scuba dive?

Is scuba diving on your bucket list? Did you get to try diving on your last holiday or see a photo of your friend diving with sharks? Whatever the spark, you’re ready to learn to scuba dive and we’re happy you’re here.

As breathing underwater is not natural for humans and we need to breathe to live; you’ll want to ensure you’re training is the highest quality and the instructor is the best at what they do and they have a true passion for it.

At Eight, we provide instruction through two different training agencies: Global Underwater Explorers (GUE) and the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI).

NAUI and GUE are both well-respected scuba diving agencies, but they have some differences in their approach, philosophy, and training programs. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

1. Training Philosophy:

   • NAUI: NAUI focuses on a more traditional approach to scuba diving education. Their courses are designed to be accessible to a broad range of divers, including recreational and entry-level divers. NAUI courses typically emphasize a balance between safety and skill development.

   • GUE: GUE takes a more rigorous and technical approach to scuba diving education. They are known for their high standards and emphasis on precision and mastery of diving skills. GUE courses are often considered more challenging and require a greater commitment to training.

2. Course Duration:

   • NAUI: NAUI courses are often shorter in duration and may be more suitable for individuals who want to learn to scuba dive in a relatively short time frame.

   • GUE: GUE courses tend to be longer and more intensive, requiring more time and effort to complete. They are designed for divers who are willing to invest more in their training.

3. Depth of Training:

   • NAUI: NAUI offers a wide range of courses, from basic open water instruction to advanced specialties. They cater to divers with various interests and skill levels.

   • GUE: GUE is known for its technical diving programs, which include advanced courses such as cave diving and technical diving. GUE courses are often chosen by divers seeking to explore challenging underwater environments.

4. Equipment Configuration:

   • NAUI: NAUI is more flexible when it comes to equipment configuration, allowing divers to choose from different styles of gear setup.

   • GUE: GUE places a strong emphasis on standardized equipment configuration, using a specific setup known as "DIR" (Doing It Right). This standardization is aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency underwater.

5. Certification and Recognition:

   • NAUI: NAUI certifications are widely recognized and accepted worldwide. They have a good reputation for producing well-trained divers.

   • GUE: GUE certifications are also highly regarded, especially among the technical diving community. They are known for producing skilled and knowledgeable divers.

Ultimately, the choice between NAUI and GUE will depend on an individual's goals, interests, and level of commitment to scuba diving. Recreational divers may find NAUI's approach more suitable, while those seeking a more challenging and technical diving experience may opt for GUE. It's essential to research both agencies, consider your diving objectives, and choose the one that aligns best with your goals.

Our instructors are experienced professional educators from both of these organizations, which guarantees you confidence in your dive training.

We recommend that anyone new to scuba diving start with a NAUI course(s), and then, depending on your goals, move into the GUE option(s).

The underwater world is unlike anything you’ve experienced before and Eight Diving is ready to share it with you!

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