Which is the better choice - NAUI or PADI?

Question

Which is a more desirable certification, NAUI or PADI? I have read that if the instructor is good, then the skills learned are comparable.

But I was also told that in certain countries PADI isn't recognized/ accepted - such as in the French Caribbean. This was told to me by someone who is a diving instructor in that region, but considering this guy was full-of-it on so many other topics I'm skeptical about this.

Has anyone encountered a situation where they were not allowed to dive, based on the company they got their cert. through?

Answer 1

PADI  is almost double as big; you are twice as likely to be recognized being certified with PADI as NAUI. PADI are the biggest scuba diving agency it the world and offer the best, most professional, and widest range of training.

In relation to the French Caribbean PADI WILL recognize you; they have centres in Martinique and Guadeloupe...

Martinique - http://www.padi.com/padi/common/dcnr_dis...

Guadeloupe -

http://www.padi.com/padi/common/dcnr_dis...

PADI  must have at least 5 times more centres around the world, their training materials is excellent and their staff are put through rigorous testing.

Diving centres these days WANT their money; if your qualified under any agency... THEY'LL LET YOU DIVE  as long as you have proof of your qualifications

GO WITH PADI!

Happy Diving.

PS.- I don' t work for PADI!  

Answer 2

As you've already said, there is no difference.  PADI is larger, but bot any better.  What's important is your instructor.  Meet them, talk to them.  Go with which ever instructor you feel more comfortable with.

Personally, my wife and I are PADI, the other couple we dive with is NAUI.  

The only time I've seen someone turned away from diving is with no C-Card to show the shop.