beachLIFE 2022 Issue 16 | Page 68

68 beachLIFE EXPERIENCES UNDERWATER ART MUSEUM business in Destin since 1992 . They offer a threestep streamlined scuba certification process that requires less of a time commitment than many think .
“ The first step is an e-learning component ,” Schmitz says , “ and most finish this before their planned trip to the area . The next two steps can be completed in four days — two days practicing at their onsite pool and two days diving in the open water .”
The guidelines for participation are also reasonable .
“ You should simply be in overall good health , comfortable in the water , and have a desire to achieve your certification ,” Schmitz says . From the beginner level to dive instructor programming , Emerald Coast Scuba offers classes and training year-round . Their dive certification can be used for the rest of your life , anywhere in the world .
CAA board member and UMA co-founder Allison Wickey created Anamorphous Octopus — an eight-foot by eight-foot octopus sculpture comprised of 16 metal bars . Eager to visit her piece in person , she used Emerald Coast Scuba for her dive certification . An avid water enthusiast , Wickey speaks highly of the program .
“ I felt really safe and supported while getting certified with the dive masters at Emerald Coast Scuba ,” she says . Fostering a close-knit working partnership with UMA , Emerald Coast Scuba has also dedicated itself to keeping the museum clean of debris and fishing lines .
It ’ s important to remember that no matter which adventure you pursue — snorkeling reefs or scuba diving an underwater museum — taking time to explore the depths of the Emerald Coast is sure to be an experience you will never forget .