Hi, I'm Kirk McGettigan, the founder and owner of Scuba Smarter. I've been diving since 1996 - and diving regularly in Puget Sound since 2021. I am a PADI-certified Open Water Scuba Instructor and am insured by Divers Alert Network (DAN).
I founded Scuba Smarter when I noticed that group scuba classes often leave divers unprepared to dive safely and in control. My goal is to give you a better experience! One that equips you to dive competently and comfortably. You will find many blogs and stories on this site that are free, and will help you become a better diver. If you want to take it to the next level, and get personal scuba instruction that goes beyond the basics, a private experience with Scuba Smarter might be for you.
At Scuba Smarter I don't offer any large, discounted, group classes. Those might be appropriate in warm, clear tropical waters with 50+ foot visibility, but here in Puget Sound our visibility is often limited to a body length or a bit longer - and we carry thick and heavy gear that makes our dives more challenging. In lower visibility, it can be impossible to see more than the two divers closest to me. And if I can't see a diver, I can't notice if they're having a problem. Low visibility, like we often have in Puget Sound, is a contributing factor in many dive accidents and fatalities.
For your safety, and my peace of mind, all of my classes and tours are private. I don't teach large groups. This way I can always see you during our dives and ensure your safety - and you get the attention you deserve to help you become a competent diver.
If you're interested in training with me, we'll look at what you want to learn, and work out a custom schedule. All classes are nights or weekends - to accomodate working schedules for you and for me.
I currently offer:
PADI Open Water Diver - learn to scuba dive (beginner class)
PADI Dry Suit Diver - stay warm in our cold waters
PADI ReActivate - if its been more than 6 months since your last dive, refresh your skills in a pool or open water
Tours - go for a guided dive, previous scuba certification required
Contact me at kirk@scubasmarter.com for details.