Welcome to the Skelly Scuba FAQ page! We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive regarding our scuba cylinder VIP inspection services and our SDI/PADI scuba certification courses. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
SDI & PADI Scuba Certification Course FAQs
General Course Questions
What’s the difference between SDI and PADI certifications?
Both SDI (Scuba Diving International) and PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) are globally recognized dive training agencies. Both provide excellent instruction and certifications. We are certified to teach both and can help you choose the best fit for your diving goals.
How long do the courses take? What’s the schedule like?
The Open Water course typically takes 3-4 days (e.g., 1 classroom/pool, 2 days open water). We offer flexible scheduling, including weekend and weekday options.
View our Courses for specific course outlines and schedules.
Do I need to provide my own dive gear?
For most entry-level courses, you’ll need personal gear (mask, snorkel, fins, boots). Other major equipment (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, tank) may be included in rental fees or specific course packages.
What are the prerequisites for the Open Water Diver course?
You must be at least 10 years old, be able to swim, and complete a medical questionnaire. Some medical conditions may require a doctor’s approval.
What’s included in the course fees?
Course materials (digital or physical), classroom and pool sessions, open water dives, instructor fees, and certification processing.
What’s not included: Personal dive equipment (mask, snorkel, fins), transportation to boat dock, and parking fees.
What if I have a medical condition?
All students must complete a medical questionnaire. If you answer “yes” to certain questions, you’ll need to obtain medical clearance from a physician before participating in in-water training. We can provide the necessary forms.
Booking & Payments
How do I sign up for a course?
You can sign up for a course by visiting our Courses page and filling out our online inquiry form, or by contacting us directly at [email protected].
What is your refund or cancellation policy for courses?
Course deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations made 3 days prior to the start date may be eligible for a partial refund or reschedule. Please see our Terms of Service for full details.
Scuba Cylinder VIP Inspection FAQs
General Inspection Questions
What is a VIP (Visual Inspection Plus) inspection?
A VIP inspection is an annual visual examination of the interior and exterior of a high-pressure cylinder (like a scuba tank) to ensure its integrity and safety. It checks for corrosion, pitting, cracks, and other defects.
How often does my scuba cylinder need a VIP inspection?
All scuba cylinders require an annual visual inspection (VIP) by a certified inspector. Hydrostatic testing is typically required every five years.
What standards do you follow for inspections?
We adhere to the highest industry standards, including those set by PSI/PCI (Professional Scuba Inspectors/Cylinder Inspectors), OSHA, CGA (Compressed Gas Association), and UN ISO standards where applicable.
What’s the process for getting my cylinder inspected?
Simply drop off your cylinder at our facility. We’ll complete the inspection, apply a new VIP sticker, and provide a digital inspection record.
How long does an inspection take? What’s the turnaround time?
Typically, a standard VIP inspection can be completed within 1-2 business days. Expedited services may be available by request.
What’s included in an inspection?
Visual inspection of cylinder interior and exterior, valve inspection, neck thread examination, a new VIP sticker upon passing, and a digital inspection record accessible via QR code.
Do you offer O2 cleaning?
Yes, we offer oxygen compatibility cleaning for cylinders intended for use with enriched air nitrox (EANx) as part of our inspection services.
What is Eddy Current Testing? Is it necessary?
Eddy Current Testing (ECT) is a non-destructive test performed on aluminum cylinders to detect sustained load cracks in the neck threads. It’s often required in conjunction with a visual inspection for certain aluminum cylinders.
Accessing Inspection Records
How do I access my inspection record?
Each cylinder passing inspection will receive a QR code sticker. Scan this code with your smartphone, and it will direct you to your cylinder’s unique digital inspection record on our website.
If you cannot scan the QR code, you can also look up your record manually by serial number on our Inspection Record Lookup page.
What if I lose my QR code sticker?
You can still access your record by visiting our Inspection Record Lookup page and entering your cylinder’s serial number.
We hope this FAQ page has answered many of your questions. For further assistance or specific inquiries, please feel free to contact us directly.