Q: What is the difference between BSAC and PADI?
A:
BSAC - British Sub Aqua Club, an organisation based in Great Britain
PADI - Professional Association of Diving Instructors, a world-wide organisation based in the United States
These are the two most common diving agencies in the United Kingdom for anyone wishing to train as a scuba diver. The structure of both organisations is however quite different. BSAC are represented in most towns by clubs which meet on a regular basis providing training, dive programmes, social events etc. all on a voluntary basis.
PADI run their training programmes on a commercial basis, usually from dive shops or resorts which is reflected in the cost of courses. Qualifications from either organisation are recognised throughout the world. Anyone wishing to join a club with like minded people and an interest for diving in the UK or throughout the year, are normally attracted to BSAC, and for those wishing to dive overseas during holiday periods only, may be best suited to PADI training.
