When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
SCUBA Network
Why SCUBA Network is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
SCUBA Network is a renowned boutique group of full-service dive shops located in New York and Florida, boasting over 40 years of expert experience in scuba diving. This network stands out as a top-performing facility, recognized with the Top Performing Facility Trophy for seven consecutive years (2017-2024) across all its territories, reflecting its commitment to excellence. SCUBA Network offers comprehensive services including SCUBA training from beginner Open Water certifications to advanced professional development. Their expert staff, comprising instructors, divemasters, and instructor trainers, have a combined diving experience exceeding 200 years and teaching experience over 100 years, ensuring that every diver receives professional, practical, and personalized guidance. Beyond just training, SCUBA Network organizes exotic SCUBA travels with official guides, providing adventure opportunities that connect divers globally. The atmosphere fosters a strong community spirit, encouraging divers to embrace diving as a lifestyle that promotes happiness, meditation, health restoration, and eco-consciousness. Additionally, SCUBA Network provides discounted gear sales in-store, competitively priced to beat online retailers, with select brands available especially on Long Island. With an inviting and educational environment, SCUBA Network is an excellent destination for friends to gather, learn, explore, and share their passion for diving together.
Here's what people think of SCUBA Network
As of recent, SCUBA Network holds a 4.8-star rating based on 179 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise SCUBA Network for its knowledgeable and friendly staff who deliver expert instruction and foster a welcoming, family-like environment. Positive reviews highlight the professionalism of the instructors, the thorough and safe training programs, and the unique opportunity to participate in group travel adventures with experienced guides. Many reviewers appreciate the extensive experience of the staff and their dedication to teaching not just diving skills but also how to be ambassadors for ocean conservation. Customers also value the competitive pricing on gear and the convenience of having multiple well-equipped locations. On the other hand, negative reviews are relatively rare but sometimes mention limited gear availability at certain locations or occasional scheduling challenges for classes and trips. A few customers have expressed desires for extended hours or more frequent class offerings. Despite minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 179 reviews, underlining SCUBA Network’s strong reputation. This reflects a consistent delivery of quality services, expert training, and community engagement, making the business a trusted and cherished spot within the scuba diving community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lara Cemo
I've been on two trips with Scuba Network, and have had an incredible time on both occasions! First one was Cozumel, second was Roatan. Can't recommend enough going on a group trip with Scuba Network! The groups they put together are so fun, and it's a great way to meet people abroad that you can continue to hang with back home in the city. The resorts we've stayed at have also been great, especially the Roatan resort they always go to. The trips are also a great opportunity to complete any certification you're interested in. On the recent Roatan trip, I completed my rescue training with Fallon who is one of the incredible instructors within Scuba Network. It was such a worthwhile and well executed experience and training. You won't regret a scuba experience with Scuba Network!!
Drew Murphy
From the first phone call with Mark where I was inquiring about the process, to taking my open water scuba certification class with Fallon, it has been absolutely top notch service throughout. Fallon worked with me and my wife when we were struggling with underwater tests and patiently coached us through. I would definitely recommend scuba network to anybody.
Geoffrey King
First time writing a Google review but wanted to spend some time sharing how awesome these guys are! I came across the shop a little over a month ago and spoke with Fallon on the phone, who was incredibly helpful and patient for someone with zero diving experience. After having a one-on-one with her in the store, I immediately felt comfortable that this was the right team that I wanted to do my open water training with and signed up for my pool sessions on the spot. Fallon, Ryan, Hailey, Mark, and the rest of the staff were extremely helpful in getting me set up with high quality gear from the get-go without also breaking the bank. I decided to purchase my own mask, snorkel, and fins on day one, with the option to come back and swap out any equipment that didn't fit well after the pool training sessions. Luckily, everything worked great and the pool trainings with Ryan were fantastic. The sessions were easy to schedule, and the facility was privately rented just for our group's pool dives. Ryan was patient, safety-focused, and overall a fantastic instructor. I had such a great experience that I decided to join the shop's weeklong Curacao trip to finish my open water diving certification without previously knowing any of the other divers, only knowing that Ryan was also running that trip. I just got back this past weekend and couldn't have had a better vacation. The trip was well-organized, the group was terrific, and the diving was incredible! In addition to finishing my SDI Open Water Scuba Diver certification, I also came back with specialties in Nitrox, Night Diving, and Underwater Navigation. Ryan was extremely attentive during all of our training and an all-around fun group leader/instructor. I'll definitely be going back with SCUBA Network NYC on future diving trips and additional certifications/equipment as I grow my SCUBA experience! Thanks again!
Reese Klemm
If you were like me and are currently trying to decide between the SCUBA facilities in Manhattan, where to get certified, and/or go on a big group SCUBA trip, let me save you the effort: YOU FOUND THE CORRECT SHOP! After attending pool sessions with the *fabulous* Rishi and Fallon, I signed up for the group trip to Roatán to finish my open water certification with them. Frankly, I couldn’t be happier with the program and the shop as a whole. I felt incredibly supported when buying my gear and cared for when it was time to get in the water. I can certainly be a worrier, but I felt incredibly safe diving with Rishi and Fallon. I would highly recommend them for instructing people of all ages and with different experiences. They were obviously very invested in me as a diver (I.e. Making sure I’m safe and happy), but I would also say that they treated me as a friend from the beginning (I.e. Making sure I got home safe from the pool sessions). Nothing but love for the both of them. Additionally, I would also like to mention how cool this group trip to Roatán was, especially as someone who is 23 and has only been in NYC for about 2 years. Now, you don’t *need* to be a youth to enjoy such a trip, but this is all to say, ~~if you’re looking for a real community and friend group in the city,~~ doing a trip like Roatán is a surprisingly successful way to accomplish that goal. You become very, very close to the people that you attend the trips with and form lasting relationships that persist even when you’re not SCUBA diving. I’m personally very excited to continue hanging out with these new friends in the city! Ultimately, my weeklong trip to Roatán was somehow the best vacation I’ve had in a very long time— ever? Not only did I learn a new skill (which always makes a person feel proud and accomplished), but I also got an opportunity to crack jokes while swimming in the ocean between dives and jet ski during our downtime. I can understand if SCUBA seems a bit scary conceptually, but SCUBA Network (Rishi, Fallon, and the other instructors) is the BEST way to take the leap and feel comfortable and confident in every moment of the dive. So, if you read all of this: Go for it! Commit to learning the neatest life skill out there! And tell your instructor that I, Reese, says “hi!” :)
Dana DiSarno
Scuba Network made the whole process super simple and easy. Rishi was the best and made the pool dives really fun. Highly recommend! Everyone in the shop was amazing, could talk to Mark for hours! Thank you all!
How to reach SCUBA Network
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Why SCUBA Network may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at SCUBA Network with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable adventure is always rewarding, and SCUBA Network offers an exceptional venue to create unforgettable experiences together. With a near-perfect rating of 4.8 from 179 reviews, this dive shop and training center has proven itself a trusted hub for both beginners and seasoned divers. Rallying at SCUBA Network means immersing yourselves in a community passionate about diving, safety, and fun. Their comfortable, supportive environment fosters learning and camaraderie, making it an ideal spot for bonding through shared adventures. The staff's patient instruction and deep expertise enable everyone, regardless of prior experience, to feel confident and excited about underwater exploration. Hosting your meetup here benefits from the combination of professional guidance, top-quality equipment, and a friendly atmosphere where every participant feels valued and cared for. Whether you are earning your certifications or gearing up for a dive trip, SCUBA Network transforms your gathering into a purposeful, exhilarating group activity that strengthens connections and builds lasting memories.
What activities can groups enjoy at SCUBA Network?
SCUBA Network offers a rich variety of activities tailored for groups seeking adventure, education, and fun. The cornerstone activity is their PADI scuba certification courses, ranging from beginner Open Water classes to advanced and specialty training. These classes are highly regarded for their thoroughness and relaxed pace, taught by instructors certified as instructor trainers with decades of combined teaching experience. This makes the venue ideal for groups who want to learn diving together in a safe, supportive setting. For more experienced divers, SCUBA Network provides specialty courses and refresher sessions to enhance skills or try new underwater experiences. Beyond instruction, the dive shop boasts an extensive inventory of diving equipment for sale or rental, so groups can gear up without hassle. Regular group outings and dive trips tailored to various locations and skill levels also create social opportunities to explore underwater ecosystems as a team. All of these offerings are designed to engage groups in both professional-level diving education and recreational underwater discovery.
Why is SCUBA Network perfect for a group meetup?
SCUBA Network excels as a venue for group meetups because it combines expert leadership with a welcoming environment that values safe, enjoyable experiences for all skill levels. Their team’s commitment to high training standards ensures that group members feel secure as they progress through courses or refresh skills, fostering group confidence and excitement. The personalized attention from instructors and staff ensures each participant’s needs are met, which is essential for a comfortable group dynamic, especially with mixed experience levels. Additionally, the shop’s comprehensive gear selection means a group can conveniently equip everyone with quality, reliable equipment in one location. The social aspect of learning and diving together naturally strengthens bonds, making this a social hub beyond just a dive training facility. SCUBA Network’s reputation for friendly, patient staff transforms potentially intimidating diving lessons into fun, motivating experiences that energize groups to keep exploring together. This blend of professionalism, community feel, and logistical convenience makes SCUBA Network an exceptional choice to host meetups where friends and family can celebrate shared passions and create lasting memories immersed in the adventure of diving.
What makes SCUBA Network’s instruction stand out?
The instructors at SCUBA Network represent some of the most qualified and dedicated professionals in the diving community, making their instruction a standout feature for anyone planning a group experience. Many of the staff are instructor trainers who teach other instructors how to train divers, bringing over 100 years of combined teaching experience. Their teaching philosophy focuses on creating a relaxed yet thorough learning environment where students feel safe and well-prepared for real diving. This approach is crucial when groups include people with different levels of familiarity with diving, as it ensures everyone receives appropriate attention and support. The instructors emphasize safety above all and make sure students understand practical techniques that will enable them to enjoy dives confidently. Their patience and ability to break down complex skills into accessible steps help lessen anxiety and enhance group morale. This exceptional level of expertise and care fosters trust in groups, ultimately enriching the social and educational experience of diving lessons.
How does SCUBA Network foster a community for divers?
At SCUBA Network, becoming certified or advancing your diving skills means joining a vibrant, passionate community that extends well beyond the lessons. Their long-standing presence—since 1989—and multiple awards for top performance speak to a deeply rooted culture centered on diving education, exploration, and camaraderie. New divers become part of this community through carefully guided courses that focus not only on skills but also on building connections with fellow enthusiasts. The shop regularly organizes dive trips and social events, offering natural opportunities for groups to bond over shared underwater adventures. The staff make a point to treat every customer like family; this inclusive atmosphere encourages friendships and ongoing support networks among divers. Whether your group is local or traveling, SCUBA Network’s welcoming and knowledgeable environment provides an ideal setting to nurture long-term relationships. This strong sense of community elevates any group meetup into a memorable, collective experience that fosters future adventures and friendships.
What gear and equipment options are available for groups at SCUBA Network?
Practicality is a major factor in hosting a group event, and SCUBA Network understands this perfectly by offering a wide and impressive range of scuba diving gear and equipment for sale or rent. Their store features top-quality brands and comprehensive gear selections, including masks, fins, wetsuits, buoyancy compensators, regulators, and dive computers, ensuring each group member can find exactly what fits their needs. This extensive inventory makes it simple and convenient for groups who may not all own diving equipment to gear up in one place before heading out on dives or classes. The staff’s expertise also helps customers select the right equipment for their skill level and diving goals, which is key for safety and enjoyment in group settings. Moreover, pricing tends to be competitive, often better than online alternatives, which supports budgeting for larger groups. By providing all necessary equipment alongside training, SCUBA Network removes logistical barriers, making group meetups seamless and well-supported from start to finish.
What are some group-friendly dive experiences facilitated by SCUBA Network?
Beyond classes and gear, SCUBA Network hosts a variety of group dive experiences designed to foster adventure and discovery on the water. They organize guided dives in diverse locations suited to different experience levels, from calm local reefs to more challenging sites for seasoned divers. These excursions provide thrilling opportunities for groups to explore marine life and underwater landscapes together with the support of knowledgeable dive guides. The team also arranges exotic dive trips that can extend beyond local waters, giving groups the chance to experience renowned dive destinations while relying on expert planning and facilitation. Group participants benefit from camaraderie and shared excitement while knowing safety and logistics are expertly managed. These dive excursions allow friends or family meetups to become true adventure getaways, combining the social joy of group travel with the unique thrill of underwater exploration.
Why is safety a strong focus at SCUBA Network, especially for groups?
Safety is the fundamental priority at SCUBA Network, a commitment particularly vital for groups where members may have varying diving experience or comfort levels. The staff’s combined expertise ensures everyone receives thorough instruction on safe dive practices, proper equipment use, and emergency procedures. Group classes are structured to maintain clear communication and attentive supervision so that no individual feels neglected or at risk. This careful approach includes smaller class sizes and patient, customized teaching methods to strengthen each diver’s confidence and competence. When organizing group dive trips, SCUBA Network applies rigorous safety protocols and thorough planning to minimize risks on the water. The leadership’s clear goal is to allow groups to enjoy the thrill and beauty of diving without avoidable dangers. Their emphasis on safety fosters peace of mind for all participants, empowering groups to fully relax and enjoy their underwater adventures.
How does SCUBA Network support lifelong learning and diving growth?
SCUBA Network isn’t just a starting point for new divers; it is a lifelong partner for anyone passionate about scuba diving. The breadth of classes spans beginner certifications to advanced specialties, technical dives, and even instructor training for those wanting to teach others. This commitment to ongoing education means groups can return together again and again, progressing through different levels and skills as a collective. The shop also supports personal growth with equipment upgrades, advice on dive planning, and social meetups that keep members engaged between dives. This continuous learning environment motivates groups to deepen their connection to diving and to each other through shared milestones. SCUBA Network’s dedication to growth helps every diver—from casual underwater explorers to serious enthusiasts—expand their horizons in a community that values education and excellence.
In summary, SCUBA Network is a premier destination for groups looking to combine adventure, education, and social connection through scuba diving. Its outstanding instructors, comprehensive class offerings, robust gear options, and community focus create the perfect backdrop for memorable meetups. Whether you are a group of beginners earning your dive certificates or experienced divers wanting to share new trips, SCUBA Network provides everything needed to make your gathering exceptional in every way.