NAUI Young Aquatic Explorers (YAE)

A safe, age-appropriate path for young divers to begin their scuba journey now and transition smoothly into Junior Open Water certification when they turn 10.

Who this program is for

• Families with a child who is not yet 10 years old but eager to start learning.

• Students preparing to join siblings, parents, or friends already enrolled in Open Water training.

• Example: Georgia is 9 now and will turn 10 in October—the YAE pathway lets her start immediately and certify as Junior Open Water once eligible.

How the pathway works

Phase 1: Young Aquatic Explorers (Start now)

• Format: E-learning, classroom sessions, and pool training with six dives.

• Instructor: Led by our Young Explorers instructor, Kaycee.

• Parallel training: While your group works on Open Water skills with another instructor, your child completes age-appropriate training with Kaycee.

• Outcome: Recognition of completing pool skills through the Young Explorers program.

Phase 2: Junior Open Water Scuba Diver (After turning 10)

• Timing: Must be completed within 120 days of the last Phase 1 pool session and the student must be at least 10 years old.

• Includes:

  • Standard NAUI Open Water e-learning (same coursework the rest of the group completes).

  • A pool session/review at LDC covering safety skills such as emergency ascents and rescues.

  • Four Open Water checkout dives.

Key details at a glance

• Minimum age for Junior Open Water certification: 10.

• Start now with YAE, then complete certification steps after the 10th birthday.

• 120-day window starts from the last Phase 1 pool session.

• Dedicated YAE instruction by Kaycee to ensure an engaging, age-appropriate experience.