Our Heritage - NAUI Worldwide

Our Heritage: A Legacy of 'Dive Safety Through Education'

The National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) was born from a shared vision: to provide quality scuba training with an unwavering commitment to Dive Safety Through Education.

The Beginnings of Recreational Diving

Recreational diving in North America can trace its roots back to 1948, when Jacques-Yves Cousteau introduced the Aqua-Lung. This revolutionary device allowed divers to stay underwater longer than ever before, transforming underwater exploration. However, early divers received minimal training, often just a warning not to hold their breath.

The Need for Structured Training

As the diving community grew, so did the need for formal training. In 1951, Jim Auxier Jr. and Chuck Blakeslee launched The Skin Diver magazine, featuring a column by Neal Hess called “The Instructors Corner,” which soon evolved into the “National Diving Patrol.” Neal began certifying instructors and listing their names in the column. Al Tillman, the director of sports for Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation, and Bev Morgan, a Los Angeles County lifeguard, furthered the cause by establishing the world’s first civilian diver training agency. They held the inaugural Underwater Instructor Certification Course in 1955, setting the standard for future training programs.

The Rise of Scuba Diving

The 1950s saw a surge in interest in recreational scuba diving, thanks in part to popular media like the TV series “Sea Hunt” and works by Cousteau and Hans Hass. This period also saw the establishment of other public certifying agencies, including the YMCA’s national program in 1959. In the same year, the National Diving Patrol was renamed the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI). The first major NAUI Instructor Certification Course was held in 1960 in Houston, Texas, certifying 72 candidates. This marked the beginning of a structured and dedicated approach to scuba training.

Building an Association

NAUI’s first Board of Directors, including pioneers like Al Tillman and Neal Hess, laid the foundation for an organization driven by volunteerism and regional leadership. Skin Diver Magazine played a crucial role in NAUI’s growth, providing office space and featuring the “NAUI Page” to spread the word.

A Commitment to the Future

Today, NAUI stands as a testament to its founding principles. Our members are renowned for their quality teaching, individual attention to students, and commitment to safety. As we continue to grow, we invite you to join us in promoting Dive Safety Through Education.

Becoming a NAUI leader or instructor means joining a community dedicated to the highest standards in diving. Your decision to join NAUI is one you will always be proud of, as we continue to shape the future of scuba diving.