I was given the minimum of information about the dive, which was on the Maverick wreck off Pigeon Point. My maximum depth was 33m. The dive involved minor penetration of the upper superstructure and I had no difficulties, but when I was back on the boat I asked another holiday-maker how long he had been diving. I realised how many people think they are well-qualified when they have done a quickie dive course. Their levels of incompetence and over-confidence were alarming, from being unable to kit up properly to nearly running out of air at 24m through not knowing how to read a gauge.
People have to realise that a quickie course is just a taste of diving.
I have yet to meet anyone who has failed a PADI course. Surely not everyone should pass - there must be some people who will never be competent and safe divers. Once enrolled, anyone who does not master the skills necessary for certification within the initial period can be given a referral form and continue their training at any time within 12 months, at the original centre or elsewhere. They either go on until they master the required skills or eventually drop out, but because we don't know if or when they will resume their training, we have no figures for the numbers who drop out. It is unclear whether Mr Mellor visited an authorised PADI Dive Centre and Resort, but all members are required to verify that their customers hold a recognised scuba certification before they can rent equipment, have air fills or book dive trips.