This Try SCUBA is an interactive clinic available to military veterans and one guest age 18+. It is an introductory, non-certification course designed to introduce beginners to the basics of SCUBA in a safe, controlled environment under the guidance of a professional instructor. Instructors will cover the basic knowledge and skills required for safe SCUBA diving and supervise participants as they put what they've learned to practice in the heated pool!
We'll readily admit that Try SCUBA is designed to get you hooked on diving and have you coming back for more. We believe passionately in the value of SCUBA as a lifelong recreational experience and think you will too once you've experienced the calm and relaxing effects of being underwater.
If you want to participate in Try SCUBA, the first step is to register for a session (morning session 9am-1pm will be at the Dive Shop and afternoon session 2pm-4pm will be at SMAC)! Click the "Sign Up for a Session" button at the top of the page. The form will ask you which session you'll attend. You're welcome to participate in more that one session but be considerate of other potential participants. The Dive Shop has standard entry with steps into the pool. SMAC has a chair lift to accommodate those with mobility challenges.
We'll provide everything you need to SCUBA, but you will need to wear a swimsuit and bring a towel and water bottle. Be sure to eat well and be hydrated on the day of your session. DO NOT consume alcohol within 12 hours of your session, and don't dive if you're sick. Contact us if you have any questions about whether you should dive. Both pool are heated.
When you arrive at Dive Shop Sn Marcos or San Marcos Activity Center for your session, you'll go to the registration table to get checked in. You'll join other participants for a safety briefing from the lead instructor, then be split into small groups to be fitted for equipment and enter the pool. Your instructor will introduce you to your equipment, teach you breathing basics and hand signals, and get you diving. The Dive Shop has standard entry with steps into the pool. SMAC has a chair lift to accommodate those with mobility challenges.
The goal of Try SCUBA is for you to have FUN and enjoy an opportunity to unwind underwater! You'll learn some basic skills, but Try SCUBA is purely introductory and won't get you a certification. If you get hooked and want to keep diving, ask your instructors for more information or contact Mission Support SCUBA at info@missionsupportscuba.org.
