Welcome
Hello and welcome to your first step into scuba ! Nothing compares to the sensation of exploring the underwater world . So , if you are thinking about taking up scuba diving or have just started your training , we ’ ve put this special guide together to help you as you begin your aquatic adventure . To get the most out of your diving , you need the best possible training and that ’ s where BSAC comes in . It stands for the ‘ British Sub-Aqua Club ’ and it ’ s been around for more than 70 years , training divers to the highest standards . BSAC is the UK Governing Body for scuba diving and it oversees a set of internationallyrecognised courses that take its divers from beginners to competent , confident divers . The heart and soul of BSAC lies in its members – around 30,000 of them distributed across a network of locally-based and managed clubs . BSAC ’ s clubs are run on a voluntary basis by their members , a proud tradition that creates friendships that can last a lifetime . This voluntary , ‘ not for profit ’ nature of BSAC is what makes it unique in the world of diving . There are other training agencies such as PADI ( the Professional Association of Diving Instructors ) and SSI ( Scuba Schools International ) and they both offer respected diver training systems . Similarly , BSAC also has professionally-run dive centres that provide an alternative to in-club training . However , BSAC also offers a club system where you can progress your dive training at your own natural pace in a supportive , friendly environment . And it doesn ’ t stop there – BSAC clubs offer further training and facilities to support you in your diving as you build up experience . A large part of this guide has been devoted to BSAC ’ s most popular entry-level course , Ocean Diver . This is quite simply the most comprehensive beginner ’ s course available in the UK , providing you with the training and skills you will need to enjoy safe diving in both British and international seas . I hope the following pages go some way to answering your questions – whether they are about the Ocean Diver course , the kit you will need or simply where you can go diving – and inspire you to join us in the beautiful world of underwater exploration .
Simon Rogerson – Editor simon @ scubamagazine . co . uk
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