I completed the open water course on 10/8/17 and I can’t imagine having gone anywhere else. Michael Lutz was my instructor. Not only was he very experienced and knowledgeable (18 years diving in multiple underwater landscapes), but he was also patient and happy to provide further clarification. After the course was over he sought to help me find the best gear that works for me and has continued to provide support in ensuring I am comfortable with my diving abilities. His expertise and teaching style made the course enjoyable, friendly, and efficient. Likely due to the fact that it was a fall course, I was one of only two students. This allowed for more one-on-one training and greater oversight for needed correction.
While Scubaland can be over-priced on some gear, their prices are matched to online options for most brand BCDs, wetsuits, etc. Furthermore, they do provide financing options. The guys are pleasant to chat with and they are also easy-going. It generally took me a few trips to the store before I was able to determine what gear I wanted to purchase, and they were always patient and understanding. They have a travel office where you can seek advice and book diving excursions, as well as inquire about group dives (both local and vacation).
If you are looking to take the open water course, I highly suggest Scubaland. Ask for Michael Lutz for any course you wish to take, as he offers the open water course and several advanced and specialty courses.
I completed the open water course on 10/8/17 and I can’t imagine having gone anywhere else. Michael Lutz was my instructor. Not only was he very experienced and knowledgeable (18 years diving in multiple underwater landscapes), but he was also patient and happy to provide further clarification. After the course was over he sought to help me find the best gear that works for me and has continued to provide support in ensuring I am comfortable with my diving abilities. His expertise and teaching style made the course enjoyable, friendly, and efficient. Likely due to the fact that it was a fall course, I was one of only two students. This allowed for more one-on-one training and greater oversight for needed correction. While Scubaland can be over-priced on some gear, their prices are matched to online options for most brand BCDs, wetsuits, etc. Furthermore, they do provide financing options. The guys are pleasant to chat with and they are also easy-going. It generally took me a few trips to the store before I was able to determine what gear I wanted to purchase, and they were always patient and understanding. They have a travel office where you can seek advice and book diving excursions, as well as inquire about group dives (both local and vacation). If you are looking to take the open water course, I highly suggest Scubaland. Ask for Michael Lutz for any course you wish to take, as he offers the open water course and several advanced and specialty courses.