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I had a great time getting open water certified at Island Divers Hawaii. My wife and I signed up last minute and they made sure to get us all the gear we needed to be prepared for the course in 2 days. Due to the influx of students joining up, they ran out of my size of fins and called around the island multiple times even after I changed my mind on the set/brand I wanted. They were super patient and clearly explained any questions I had.
Day 1: Breakfast was provided. The coursework/exam portion was quick and easy. My wife and I are NOT good test takers and really stressed on the exam portion - all 20 students passed. Moving on to pool exercises the students were split up amongst the 4 instructors. They made sure we knew our skills. My wife became super nervous and anxious breathing underwater - they acknowledged it, comforted her and told her they will take some private time to get her ready. Class ran a lot longer than expected due to unforeseen circumstances.
Day 2: Two open water dives @ Electric Beach. Our first experience was phenomenal. Arrived early and everyone was set up on time. Each "team" had been briefed before/after every dive. Some previously certified students showed up to help and demonstrate the skills we were required to perform. Saw lots of marine life, turtle swam in the middle of our circle during skill assessments, instructors pointed out smaller creatures that are easily missed. My wife did not show up for this since she could not pass the pool portion. Instructor Ray pulled me to the side and asked me to bring her to the pool since he would be redoing Day 1 with another student who's flight got delayed and couldn't make it. We spent nearly all day with him and he was very patient with her - she was cleared to attempt and open water dive.
Day 3: Two open water dives @ Sharks Cove. Sharks cove proved to be a little more difficult entry than Electric Beach. Sharp rocks were everywhere, tide was somewhat low, visibility was poor - not ideal for my wife's anxiety situation so she was held back. Two instructors pushed our team through it and we were able to complete our objectives. The instructors mentioned that they would be going to Electric Beach and invited whoever wanted to come along to complete their dives. The same two instructors stuck it out with my wife to try to get her underwater. She still needed work so one stayed with her snorkeling while the rest of us went under. Nearly another entire day spent with them and they told me they are STILL willing to work with my wife to get her over her fears even after this course is finished. The same night I received confirmation that I am now a Certified Open Water Diver.
TLDR: All of the instructors are skilled, knowledgeable, empathetic, flexible, patient and passionate about diving. I look forward to future adventures with this crew. - via 