How deep can you dive with an Open Water certification?
Updated 2026-06-30 · Certification
An entry-level Open Water diver is generally certified to a maximum depth of 18 metres (60 feet). That's the standard training limit for PADI, and SSI and NAUI are very similar. With additional training — such as an Advanced course or a Deep specialty — you can extend your limit step by step toward the recreational maximum of 40 metres (130 feet).
These depth limits aren't arbitrary. They keep new divers within the range where air lasts longer, no-decompression limits are generous, and nitrogen narcosis isn't a factor.
The usual progression
Recreational depth limits typically build up like this:
- ·Open Water (entry level): 18 m / 60 ft.
- ·Advanced Open Water: around 30 m / 100 ft.
- ·Deep specialty: up to 40 m / 130 ft — the recreational maximum.
Why the limits exist
Deeper water means you breathe through your air faster, your no-decompression limit shrinks, and below about 30 m / 100 ft nitrogen narcosis can dull your judgement. Training you in stages lets you build the skills and awareness to manage each of those factors before you go deeper.
It's also worth knowing the difference between a certification limit (what your card qualifies you for) and a training limit (the depth you actually practised to). Good divers respect both — and their own comfort.
Does the agency matter?
Not much for depth. PADI, SSI and NAUI all use an 18 m / 60 ft entry-level limit and a 40 m / 130 ft recreational maximum, and their certifications are widely recognised and cross-honoured at dive centres worldwide. Pick the school and instructor you click with; the theory you'll be tested on is essentially the same.
Frequently asked questions
Can an Open Water diver dive to 30 metres?+
Not on the entry-level certification alone — its limit is 18 m / 60 ft. To dive to around 30 m you'd complete an Advanced Open Water course, and to reach the 40 m recreational maximum you'd add a Deep specialty.
What is the maximum recreational diving depth?+
40 metres (130 feet). Beyond that is technical diving, which requires specialised training, gases and equipment. Most recreational diving happens much shallower, where dives are longer and conditions are friendlier.
Is PADI or SSI better for depth limits?+
They're effectively the same: 18 m / 60 ft at entry level and 40 m / 130 ft maximum recreational. Both are internationally recognised. Choose based on the dive centre, schedule and instructor rather than the depth numbers.