Learn to Dive with Quicksilver Dive
3 Day PADI Open Water Course with eLearning
Scuba diving is the ultimate adventure, and the best way to explore the magnificence of the Great Barrier Reef. Quicksilver's Three Day Learn to Dive Course with eLearning (PADI Open Water Certification) is ideal for those ready to get certified but short on time. The online eLearning platform allows students to complete the theory component of the course at their own convenience before arriving. This reduces the amount of time spent in a classroom by a full day, allowing the entire course to be completed in just three days.
Along with the eLearning component, the course comprises one day of pool training at our 5 Star PADI IDC dive facility, followed by two, day trips to the Outer Barrier Reef aboard one of our custom-built adventure dive catamarans. Students will complete four compulsory training dives, and two pleasure dives at some of the most pristine dive sites on the outer reef, filled with vibrant marine life.
(Please Note: The eLearning component takes approximately 6-8 total hours to complete, and must be completed before you can jump into the pool and begin your practical training.)
Courses start on Wednesday each week in English.
Private classes available on request in English, German, French and Spanish.
Minimum class sizes may apply.
The course is conducted in two components:
PADI eLearning (login details supplied via Quicksilver Dive 24hr after booking)
1x days of testing and pool training
2x day trips to the outer Great Barrier Reef
Within 24hrs of your booking being confirmed, you will receive login details for the online PADI eLearning platform. This gives you access to the compulsory theory component of your open water certification, and it MUST be completed before practical pool training can start. The first day in the pool is spent at our 5 Star PADI IDC dive facility where you will put your eLearnings into practice, geared up and in the dive pool.
Days two and three are spent on the Great Barrier Reef aboard a modern dive catamaran, during which you will complete four training dives under the direct supervision of your instructor.
Quicksilver Dive operates Port Douglas' only purpose-built, PADI 5 Star IDC dive facility. With a heated pool, off street parking, experienced instructors and small class sizes, your dive certification will be safe, professional and most importantly fun!
On successful completion of the 4 mandatory training dives required for the Open Water Certification, the 2 remaining dives may be used as training dives for Advanced Open Water Certification. Please enquire for more information.
PADI eLearning access
Return coach transfers from Port Douglas accommodation
Morning and afternoon tea
Lunch every day
All dive equipment and use of prescription masks
Same Dive Instructor for all 3 days
Heated dive pool - Day 1
2 x Day Trips to the Outer Reef - Day 2 and 3
4 open water dives on the reef (if successful an time s allow up to 2 additional fun dives)
PADI Gold Open Water Certification
Dive log book
Before Arrival
eLearning
Complete the mandatory eLearning reading and knowledge tests prior to day one.
Day One
Quicksilver Dive - Port Douglas
Practical Theory and pool excercies.
Day Two
Reef Trip - Day Dive Vessel
Depart Port Douglas marina for the Outer Barrier Reef on board one of Port Douglas' premier dive vessels.
Day Three
Reef Trip - Day Dive Vessel
Depart Port Douglas marina for the Outer Barrier Reef on board one of the Port Douglas' premier dive vessels.
Ability to swim - 200m (or 300m with mask, fins and snorkel) and tread water (float) for 10 minutes
Minimum age 10 years
Some medical conditions may prevent you from diving. Prior to commencing your dive course you are required to complete the self-assessment Student Diver Medical Declaration. A positive response to any question indicates there is a pre-existing condition which may affect your safety while diving and you will need to obtain a dive medical certificate that states you are medically fit to dive.
If you do require a dive medical, it must be obtained prior to commencing the course and must not be more than 90days old when you start with us.
Course Details
Courses start Wednesday each week*
8:30am - 4:30pm each day (approx.)
Includes PADI eLearning login
*Some exceptions do apply
Pricing
3 Day PADI Open Water Course with eLearning
$1,139 per person
* Prices valid from 01 April to 31 March.
EMC: A Government Environmental Management Charge (EMC) of $8 per person per day applies to all adults and children 4 years and over entering the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area. This fee is included in the fare price.
Surcharge: Due to potential significant volatility in supply and operational costs, a surcharge may be applied due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases any charge will be collected on departure.
This additional fee includes Port Deparutre Tax and administration costs.
Rates are per person and in Australian Dollars
Credit card surcharge may apply
Fuel Surcharge: Due to the significant increase and volatility of fuel prices in Australia, it has regrettably become necessary to introduce a fuel surcharge to your ticket price, effective from Wednesday 1 April 2026. The surcharge is payable at the time of booking.
Fuel Surcharge Payable: $10 per adult, $5 per child (4 - 14 years). Price is per person and not applicable for infants (0 - 3 years)
This surcharge will be monitored and reviewed regularly in accordance with fuel price fluctuations. Thank you for your understanding.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your learn to dive course for any reason up to 48 hours prior to commencing your course, and receive a refund less the PADI eLearning*.
There is no refund for any reason after this time. If you have booked through a travel agent, cancellation fees may apply.
*The PADI eLEarning portion of the course is non-refundable.
