I had been looking for a good scuba instructor for several years. I had an unfortunate experience with an introductory class when I was in my 20s and had not pursued scuba diving any further. The experience had left me a bit scared and humiliated... When I found ScubaStop, I thought, after reading all the great reviews that maybe, just maybe, I could give this another try. The moment I walked into the shop I knew I was in great hands. Kae, one of the new owners, made me feel right at home. She eased my mind and her and Maria gave me some great information on the purchase of my own starter gear. Than I met Marc, another owner. He was very knowledgeable and took the time to explain to me everything I needed to know about investing in my own equipment. He was not a pushy used car salesman and really gave me valuable, genuine advice (he didn't try to upsell me anything and really directed me towards gear that would fit my needs and my budget). Finding an instructor you trust is absolutely critical to succeeding in getting certified. I think that's what went wrong with my introductory class. Let's face it, I have a little extra natural bouyancy around my waste and I felt completely humiliated by my first instructor. This time around, the instructors, Marc, Victor and Chad, were absolutely delightful. They were respectful, kind, super knowledgeable (got everyone's sizes and weights/trim pretty much right away), and they were so easy going and encouraging, most of my apprehensions melted the moment I put my toes in the water. They helped us build confidence, even when we were struggling with some of the skills and most importantly, they expertly calmed all of us nervous divers at the slightest sign of uneasiness. They never gave up on a student, no matter how hard he/she was struggling with a skill and gave extra time and attention to all who needed it. They set us up for success and in the end it paid off! I felt completely safe and knew I would be successful because I knew these instructors had our backs, no matter what. I am amazed by the increase in confidence I have gained because of these guys. They have thought me to scuba, yeah, that's what I paid them for, but I got so much more out of this... I now know how to exercise more self-control when fear tries to take me over. I am so grateful for this life skill... In the end, I couldn't have had a better experience. I went from being "slightly terrified" at the idea of scuba diving to "slightly addicted" and I cannot wait to do this again in the advanced OW class. I know they also organize trips so I foresee lots of diving outings in my future with these guys. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! read more

I took the first half of my SCUBA course (Classroom/Pool), with Donnie prior to the new owners coming into the picture but had to wait for the lake dive weekend due to scheduling. And I'm so glad I waited. Without going into too much detail, I was honestly dreading coming back for instruction as I'd experienced it initially; and I was already deadset on leaving a 1 Star Review, due to miscommunications, incompetent planning, rudeness, unprofessionalism, and subpar instruction where the owner clearly prioritized getting done as quickly as possible over any level of thoroughness. I can't think of much that I didn't view as having been done poorly and in a disorganized manner (except the PADI supplied PowerPoint presentation). Again, I won't hash everything out, but needless to say I believed the company was being run in a highly amateurish fashion and I regretted taking instruction from them wholeheartedly. That being said, I would like to focus on the positive. I was extremely pleasantly surprised with my experience on the second weekend at the Wheeler Branch Lake (beautiful). My instructors, Mike and Victor, together with their respective wives, are the new owners of Scuba Stop as of June 2018 - and it is altogether a massive change for the better. These two instructor personified the patience, knowledge and passion for SCUBA that made instruction relaxed, informative and enjoyable. They never hesitated to focus on a student needing a little extra help, and were always quick with reassurance and kind words. Their personalities compliment each other well when instructing and they clearly prioritize customer service and the student experience. Additionally, Maria was very pleasant and helpful on the phone for scheduling, and the website and Facebook page are now being utilized and updated as they should for a business. This place is turning around very fast, and even after only 2 days with them, I would not hesitate to recommend Scuba Stop to potential divers. I will take my Advanced from them when the time comes and spread the word. Prices are good too, they won't nickel and dime you; and the shop will see some improvements as well. If anyone had bad experiences like I did in the past, I urge you to give a second shot to the new owners. They won't disappoint. Go ScubaStop! read more

(Scuba Stop is now under new ownership and based in Arlington.) I just completed my Open Water certification program with Marc, Victor and Chad. I was a little nervous as I didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. I struggled a little with body control under water, but it improved with time and a few more dives. The instructors are nothing short of amazing!!! They are so patient and knowledgeable, it is impossible to fail. I highly recommend this shop and these instructors. The prices are reasonable for lessons/equipment. The crew is so great to hang out with and they really do make learning fun. They offer numerous classes and everyone should go check out their new location in Arlington. I will definitely be seeing them again for my future Scuba development. Thanks again to Marc, Victor & Chad for a wonderful experience!!! read more

My brother and I had talked about getting certified to dive for years and I'm so glad when we finally did it we used ScubaStop. Our instructor Nathan was friendly to work with, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. He also really went out of his way to make the learning process fun while still making sure we really understood everything. No question was to small and he truly shows he cares about you while on your journey to become a certified diver. Our entire experience with ScubaStop can be summed up in just one word: outstanding. From our great experience with our instructor Nathan, to our interactions with the owners Victor and Kay, all I can say is everyone involved with ScubaStop is great and I will be referring everyone I know who wants to become Scuba certified to them. read more

ScubaStop is GREAT! Every Master Diver that helped Victor at the lake with the students was equally personable and professional. I appreciated that ScubaStop cared that I understood the skills and had me meet each requirement, it will build confidence on our underwater adventures. Victor and Kae always responded quickly to my emails and were flexible with class, pool, and lake times. We were not able to clear our ears for the last dive but Victor met us back out at the lake at no additional charge so we could complete the course. Our family appreciated the welcoming and attentive experience. No surprise fees or cost or pressure to purchase. read more

My experience with getting my PADI certification from the ScubaStop and equipment was nothing more than perfection. I would describe it as simple, easy, affordable, and most definitely leaves you more than competent and comfortable to conquer all future scuba adventures. Victor is professional and personable, he is a wonderful teacher of his passion and makes the experience everything one could hope for. He allows you to feel comfortable and safe while testing and honing your scuba skills and knowledge. I would strongly recommend the ScubaStop for any and all your scuba needs. read more

I absolutely love this place! I didn't grow up swimming due to overprotective parents, so I'm not that comfortable in the water. A lot of what we learned was difficult for me because I was very nervous. Marc and Victor were very, very patient with me when I messed up, and I messed up a lot! They gave me great tips on what to do to help me with things I was having trouble with. They were also a lot of fun and had great senses of humor. I am definitely going to be returning for other classes here! read more

Vic and Kae are extremely knowledgeable about their entire operation and are amazing instructors. They will ensure that you are comfortable each and every step whether it be purchasing new gear and getting it set up properly or during training in that you understand what you are learning so that you are safe when in the open water. They treat each and every person as if they are family and have a great passion for the water. This is the place to get your scuba certification. read more

Marc and Chris were amazing instructors, they were patient and made sure we mastered every task before moving on. As a current college student I used a Groupon to get my Open Water Diver certification and rented my gear which made my total expense a reasonable price. I am definitely going back and getting my Advanced Diver certification! read more

Scuba Stop was a great choice for my certification. Small group hands on training and water work. The open water dives had very experienced instructors who know exactly how to balance pushing you to the next level and keeping you safe and comfortable learning how to get there. Oh, and they are very entertaining. Thanks Victor. read more

Scuba stop is a family friendly place. It's a family owned scuba shop, and when you are inside everyone is family. If you have ever even thought about scuba diving stop by and ask questions. I got certified by Donnie when I was just 10 years old. Here I am 8yrs later still having a blast! read more

Donnie and his team were amazing. I was really nervous before we started. I have more confidence after taking the confined water training with him and his team. I plan on taking more advanced courses in the future. Keep up the great work! read more

Victor and Marc are amazing to work with. Both are very witty and will hold responsibility to their students. Very dedicated to their teaching and is are very dependable. Highly recommend scuba stop. read more

The best dive shop we could have asked for our family. We have visited most in Dallas and there is no better without a doubt. Ask for Donnie. read more