Experience the thrill of breathing underwater with someone who takes your breath away. There’s nothing like a splash of adventure to stir up the currents of romance. Dive headfirst into the deep end with this date and discover what wonders await. Are you ready to take the plunge?
The Background
Blue Planet Scuba in Washington, DC is a standout in the local scuba diving scene. With 4.8 out of 5 stars on Yelp, no wonder so many people jump fins first into the school’s superb classes. Dip your toes into the sensational sport through their PADI Discover Scuba(R) Diving Experience. You don’t need any prior experience.
The stellar and highly trained staff cover the basics of diving before letting you jump in for some hands-on action. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the most respected dive training organization on the planet, certifies all instructors. Not only are you getting top-quality instruction, but an experience that puts your safety first.
The Standout Features
Here’s why it’s worth taking the plunge for this date:
- Be Memorable – Crossing off a bucket list item like scuba is unforgettable. Whenever your partner thinks of the sport, they’ll now think of you.
- Find Adventure – Scuba is about exploring. Exploring with your partner is an exhilarating experience. Increased excitement can cause heightened romance and a stronger connection. Scuba diving adds some flair to your daily routine. What’s not to love?
- Share Accomplishments – If you haven’t tried scuba diving, it’ll be unlike anything you’ve done before. When you finish the class, you’re bound to feel accomplished. Having your plus one support you through the day and share in your triumph is a powerful way to bond.
- Explore New Situations – Breathing underwater is a unique sensation. How does your date handle it? Do they get frustrated, or do they take the challenge in stride? We are all uncomfortable sometimes, but knowing how your companion reacts under stress can be informative.
- Discover a New Hobby – If you loved the course, maybe you’ll pursue your scuba certification. Since the hours count towards that goal, you’ll already be on your way. Discovering a new passion makes the date even more worthwhile.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Scuba 101
I’m excited that this class is on the Gallaudet campus. After all, this prestigious university is the world’s premiere school for the deaf. As we leave the car, I see students signing to each other. It’s amazing to witness a new culture up close and I’m thankful for the experience. After a few minutes, it’s clear we’re in the wrong place. Luckily, we’ve come early. The school provides a helpful map, but to ensure you nail it, follow these photos.
At last, we arrive at our destination. Upon entering, we move towards a heap of scuba gear, including fins, goggles, and other equipment, stacked by the pool. Then, we find our instructor who checks us in. Soon after, the instructor brings us all together to explain the basics of scuba diving. Once the talk is done, I’m eager to begin. We grab our gear and head to the water.
Date Main Event - Dive In
Once everyone’s in the pool, we practice staying underwater in the shallow end. After a few minutes, instincts kick in as my brain tries to save me from drowning. Luckily, the instructor told me to expect this reaction, so I’m prepared for it. I try to slow my breathing and remind myself that I’m in three feet of water. I can stand up in the pool if necessary. This knowledge helps me get used to the sensation faster. I watch my partner go through the same experience.
The instructor goes around to assess our progress. In time, the class masters breathing underwater. Then, the teacher throws in an assortment of pool toys, and we practice picking them up while staying beneathe the surface. I try to beat my date to certain toys and then it becomes a fun competition. “Ok”, I tell him as I set some items down at one end of the pool. “The first one to pick up five wins”, I declare. On the count of three, we make a swim for it. When we emerge with our toys, we’re laughing.
Next, the instructor challenges us to get the toys from the deep end, which is 6 or 8 feet. Now we’re in the big leagues, I think to myself. After some practice, we get the hang of this, too. We go through a few more exercises and before we know it, the class is coming to a close.
Date Wrap Up - Towel Off
At some point, we have to exit the pool. Then, we remove our gear and place it where we found it. I dry myself with a towel before heading to the lockers. I’m excited to be in warm clothes now that I’m out of the water. After a quick change, I’m back out with the group.
Our fearless leader thanks us for trying the class and says the Discover Scuba hours count towards getting scuba certified if we’re interested. A bonus! From there, we gather our belongings, bid farewell to everyone, and make our way to the car. During our walk, we discuss our thoughts on the entire experience. I’m so glad I tried scuba and I’m especially happy to share the memory with someone.
The Planning
No need to figure out all the logistics. We did it for you.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year-round |
| Typical Hours | Sat and Sun at 11:30am |
| Duration | 20-30 minutes for eLearning before the course, 2 hours of in-water instruction |
| Cost | $95/person |
| Website | |
| Address | Gallaudet Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) Pool 800 Florida Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002 |
| Transportation | Recommend driving. Plenty of parking is available on site. The closest metro is NoMa-Gallaudet U New York Ave (25 min walk). |
| Attire | The water is slightly cool. Though everyone else in my class was fine with the temperature, consider wearing leggings or tighter pants over your swimsuit if you run cold like me. You can wear your swimsuit there or change in the locker rooms when you arrive. |
| Special Features | If you sign up for one of Blue Planet Scuba DC's courses, the school will credit you the cost of the Discover Scuba Diving session towards your Open Water Diver certification! |
| Add-ons | Take the free Introduction to Open Water diving course from home. This course covers some of the basics so you're even more prepared for the class. Not required but an option if you want it! |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
If you’re up for a quick rinse at the scuba school before pressing on, here’s a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can visit these places before or after your date. Make this list your own. The map shows the pool (purple) and bonus date options (green) in one place. Before you go, though, always check times in case something’s changed.
- Far East Taco Grille (15 min walk): Enjoy this casual Latin-Asian fusion eatery with food truck roots. It’s a true DC original. Closed Sun. Open Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm.
- Union Market (19 min walk): This historic market is filled with dozens of shops and highly rated restaurants, including a large rooftop bar to watch the sunset. Open Mon – Sat: 8am – 9pm, Sun: 8am – 8pm.
- Don Ciccio & Figli (24 min walk): What a gem! Nestled in Ivy City, this stunning local distillery brings you authentic Italian herbal liqueurs and delicious dishes. Open only on Sat 2-7pm.
- Atlas Brew Works Ivy City Brewery & Taproom (24 min walk): With 16 craft beers on tap, an outdoor beer garden, and occasional live entertainment, this place is the perfect place to relax and chat. Open Thurs & Fri: 5-9pm, Sat: 1-9pm, Sun: 1-6pm.
- Signing Starbucks (24 min walk): This isn’t just any Starbucks. It’s the nation’s first American Sign Language (ASL)-based store with trained ASL staff. If you want to impress your date, practice signing your coffee order in advance. The community appreciates people trying to learn ASL so don’t worry if you make a mistake. It’s the effort that matters! Open Mon-Fri: 6am-8pm, Sat & Sun: 6:30am-8pm.