Open Water Referral Dives

Open Water Referral Dives costs $795 per person.

The minimum age for Open Water Referral Dives is 18 years old.

Yes, you must complete the knowledge and pool portions of your Open Water certification before joining this referral course. This two-day program covers only Open Water dives 1 through 4, which are the final in-ocean dives required to finish your certification. It is designed for students who have already done the classroom and confined water training elsewhere. If you have not yet completed the knowledge and pool sessions, you will need to do so through a PADI-affiliated dive shop or instructor before booking this course. Kona Honu Divers will not conduct the knowledge or pool portions as part of this program, so arriving prepared is essential to participating on Day 1.

On Day 1 you must arrive by 7:45 AM, and on Day 2 you must arrive by 7:30 AM at the Honu One in Kailua-Kona. Day 1 runs from 7:45 AM to 3:00 PM and covers dives 1 and 2, while Day 2 runs from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM and covers dives 3 and 4, followed by completion of your final certification paperwork. Kona Honu Divers enforces a strict on-time policy. Morning traffic around Kailua-Kona can be congested, particularly if you are traveling north from areas south of town. The boat reserves the right to depart 15 minutes after the scheduled start time, and no refunds are given for late arrivals or no-shows, so plan your drive accordingly.

You must be in good health with no heart conditions to participate in the Open Water Referral Dives, and you are required to complete a medical questionnaire before the course begins. Waivers must also be signed in advance of your first day on the water. These requirements are standard for scuba certification dives and must be fulfilled before you board. The minimum age for this course is 18 years old. Ensuring your medical questionnaire and waivers are completed ahead of time helps the day run smoothly and confirms you are cleared to dive. If you have questions about specific health conditions, it is best to consult your physician before booking.

You can cancel your Open Water Referral Dives booking up to 7 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made within 7 days of the course start date will not be refunded. Full payment is required at the time of booking, and the operator does not overbook, which is why the policy is strictly enforced. If Kona Honu Divers cancels the course for reasons such as weather, ocean conditions, or mechanical issues, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule based on availability. The operator will contact you using the phone number or email address provided in your reservation, so make sure that information is current and accurate.

Yes, family members have the option to join you on board during your certification dives on the Open Water Referral Dives course. This can make the experience more personal and enjoyable for those who want to witness the milestone with you. The course is conducted aboard a custom 46-foot Newton dive vessel, which accommodates guests on board. Keep in mind that the course requires a minimum of 2 enrolled students to run, so if you are booking solo you should confirm that the minimum is met before your course date. Snacks and water are included on board for participants, and reef-safe sunscreen along with sun-protective clothing are recommended for everyone on deck.