We are primarily a Scuba Schools International (SSI) instructional Dive Center and Dive Boat affiliate. Additionally we offer Open Water Diver Scuba training from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). Our instructors have thousands of dives and a desire to provide the most comprehensive and enjoyable experience possible. SSI embraces this same philosophy across the entirety of its dive education catalog and professional education standards. Frankly speaking, the SSI methods and techniques are unmatched in a “student first” and “comfort through repetition” philosophy. The SSI state of the art Digital Learning platform, exemplary training standards and the best in-class instructor training programs are the finest in the industry. A prospective student or scuba enthusiast cannot find a better training agency than an SSI affiliate to take a scuba diving course.

Compass Dive and Sail is located in Northern Virginia and utilizes a virtual brick and mortar operation for our primary offices. This model is set up to provide you the best value for your dollar, whether you decide to take a class, trip or charter with us. We do not sell/service equipment or fill tanks like a typical scuba dive center; instead, we partner with the most reputable businesses to offer gear to our customers. We utilize a local business center and pool for our in-person classroom instruction and confined water activities, and our location for open water dives is Lake Phoenix Scuba Park located in Southern Virginia.

We travel the world diving. Our sailing charters depart from the Northern Caribbean islands of Puerto Rico and St. Thomas; we also charter along the Eastern US coast. Our love for exploring the oceans and off the beaten path destinations is unmatched. It would be our pleasure to share our experiences both above and below the waterline with you. Whether we are diving a pristine reef in Bonaire, sailing the waters of the Spanish Virgin Islands or training you in a local quarry or pool, we are always by your side. We offer courses in introductory scuba certification, advanced certification, and many diving specialties. Additionally we offer SSI Professional certifications for Divemaster and Assistant Instructor. Our scuba instructors are also Divers Alert Network (DAN) Instructors. We offer safety, first aid and CPR/AED training for divers, USCG captains, individuals and corporations, both big and small. As a DAN business partner we have access to all of the latest educational information related to diving research and medicine for both on land and at sea. DAN’s Safety courses are USCG approved and meet all ILCOR standards.