The PADI Open Water Diver course consists of three main phases. The first is Knowledge Development, which covers everything you need to know about basic techniques, terminology and safety procedures in scuba diving. The second is Confined Water Dives, which are training sessions conducted in a pool or water with pool-like conditions. They give you the opportunity to get used to the gear you'll be using and practice the basic skills of diving and techniques to keep you safe. The third is your Open Water Dives. This is what it's all about - you'll make your first dives in the ocean! During four dives, you'll perform various skills under water and on the surface to make sure you're a safe and competent diver. The training portion usually only takes up the first part of the dive, meaning that you will get to spend a big part of your time diving with your instructor and exploring the underwater world. As soon as your open water training dives are approved by your instructor you will be certified as a PADI Open Water Diver! This means you will be allowed to rent diving equipment and dive anywhere in the world down to 18 metres, lifelong!