Underwater Naturalist

PADI Underwater Naturalist Specialty
at the Downtown Aquarium

Look closer to see more on your next dive. Look for symbioses, predator/prey and other relationships between aquatic plant and animal life. Learn not just what fish and animals are, but how they interact with each other and the environment.

What will you learn?

During your two dives at the Downtown Aquarium you'll:

• The major aquatic life groupings, interactions and factual information that dispels negative myths
• The role of food chains and predator prey relations
• Responsible interactions with aquatic life
• The underwater naturalist's view of organisms and their roles in the environment

Course Prerequisites:

• Be a PADI Open Water Diver, Junior Open Water Diver or have a qualifying certification from another organization.
• Be at least 10 years of age.
• Complete the Underwater Naturalist Knowledge Review found in the Adventures in Diving Manual
• Complete the Aquarium Scuba Diving Waiver (PDF) and provide it to your guide at the aquarium

How long will it take?

• Approximately 4-6 hours (starts at 9am)

Course Fee: $249.00*, which includes:

• Two dives in the Beneath the Sea exhibit
• Classroom instruction
• All equipment (including exposure suit)
• One free pool session in the A-1 Scuba and Travel Center swimming pool
• PADI Specialty Certification Card and photo

Not Included

• Adventures in Diving Manual
• Parking at the Downtown Aquarium

Note: Due to concerns about exhibit contamination and animal safety, you are only allowed to use your own mask.

*There is a reduced fee if you have completed the first dive in the Adventures in Diving Course. Please call us for more information.