Dive Missoula

09/24/2026

So why do SO MANY divers become Nitrox Certified?
The Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver Specialty course is PADI's most popular Specialty course — and for good reason.
Nitrox, also known as Enriched Air (EANx), contains less nitrogen than regular air. For divers, this mix offers benefits that allow you to get more from every dive.
Here are seven reasons you may want to consider taking the Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver Specialty course:
1) More Time Underwater - Enjoy more time exploring reefs and wrecks, especially deep dive sites, thanks to longer no-stop limits when diving on Nitrox.
2) Shorter Surface Intervals - Nitrox allows you to make the most of your limited time by spending less of it waiting between dives.
3) It’s Ideal for Liveaboards and Multi-Dive Days - Nitrox leaves your body faster, which is better for diving multiple times a day and multiple days in a row.
4) Get Certified in Just a Few Hours - Most of the course can be completed online from home, followed by a short in-person session.
5) Unlock More Dive Opportunities - Some dive centers require an Enriched Air (Nitrox) certification for deeper dive sites or specialized dive profiles.
6) PADI Advanced Open Water Possibilities - Once you earn the Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver Specialty course rating, this can also be used to earn the PADI Advanced Open Water rating.
7) PADI Master Scuba Diver Possibilities - Once you earn the Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver Specialty course rating, this can also be used to earn the PADI Master Scuba Diver rating.
As you can ascertain, there is a reason (or seven of them), why earning the Nitrox rating is the most common certification other than Open Water! There are a lot of extraneous perks from just one certification.
For more information, please email us at [email protected] or call (406) 830-3110.

09/18/2026

Pretty much!!!

09/17/2026

09/16/2026

As cold weather approaches and you (we) consider a dive trip, there are a few things to consider and can be paramount to having a safe and great experience!
1) Plan things well ahead of time. Don't expect miracles from others, due to poor planning. If you want miracles, expect it to cost!
2) If you haven't Scuba'd in 12 months or more, get a refresher with your local dive shop, versus doing it while on the trip. Why?
a. The resort has you over the "proverbial barrel" and costs can be outrageous.
b. Some third-world entities don't exactly "do things by the book". I can't tell you the hundreds of stories I have heard over the years and the atrocious experiences people have endured (and paid for it). Please don't get me wrong, some entities have great instruction, but we have heard too many horror stories.
c. Getting a refresher with your local dive shop assures that you will probably know the person, there is no language barriers and your supporting the local community.
3) If you own your gear, get it serviced according to the manufacturers reccomendations! Remember, it's life support and NOT to be gambled with.
4) If you aren't comfortable with a dive, don't do it. There's always another dive.
5) If you have a bad dive buddy and they won't correct their actions (or lack of) divorce them and find another buddy. Your politeness isn't worth your life!

*If you have any questions or concerns, call Dive Missoula at (406) 830-3110 or email at [email protected]

08/24/2026

Dive Missoula, addresses ALL of these commonalities and many more. Remember, relax, relax, relax and concentrate on your training. Need more information? Reach us at [email protected]!

7 Core Lessons Every Beginner Diver Learns 🥽

Starting your scuba journey can feel overwhelming, but mastering these fundamental mindset shifts makes all the difference:

1️⃣ Breathe slow, live more – Control your breath to control your dive.
2️⃣ It’s okay to be nervous – Nerves are totally normal on your first few dives.
3️⃣ Your buddy is your lifeline – Always look out for each other.
4️⃣ Check often, stay aware – Keep a constant eye on your air, depth, and surroundings.
5️⃣ Buoyancy takes practice – Neutral buoyancy is the key to effortless diving.
6️⃣ Slow down and look around – The best details are easily missed if you rush.
7️⃣ You’ll never stop learning – Every single dive offers a new lesson.

08/06/2026

In Dive Missoula’s opinion, the largest oversight by divers is not continuing their education, after getting their basic Open Water certification. More specifically earning the PADI Rescue Diver certification is a must! Being prepared while diving, is paramount to assure the best outcome if things go wrong.
For more information about becoming a Rescue Diver, email us at [email protected]

07/08/2026

Pretty much…