Under Water Works

I’ve been diving for just over five years now having originally learned to dive in SE Asia. When I moved back to PDX, I was looking for a dive shop to call home base. So glad that I dropped by UWW. Friendly, knowledgable staff. Patient, thorough instructors. Ideal set-​up with great gear variety in stock for all types of diving.
After buying some gear, I enrolled in the PADI Rescue Diver course here. I was a bit intimidated when I heard there would be 10 other RD Candidates in the class, but was assured that they had the staff to accommodate. Was really impressed when I showed up to class the first night to be greeted by four of the shop’s DMs, our instructor (Mark Pendley), and another two instructors who would be assisting. Almost 1:1 ratio for a huge class — super impressive. Even more impressive when we got to our open water weekend and they had seven DMs and three instructors there.
The class was one of the most educational classes I’ve ever taken. Mark is a phenomenal instructor and the DMs/​assistants were incredibly supportive. Our class sessions, pool simulations, and open water scenarios were a breeze because they prepared us so well.
I’m happy to support well-​run businesses and have just purchased a USIA Drysuit from them. I also went back and started my Divemaster training with MSDT and Under Water Works’ new owner, Gretchen Slack.
Love this place!

Took my Open Water cert here, and then purchased equipment. The training is PADI, and they were just fine at that. The equipment purchase has been a completely different story. In around 10 dives on the equipment, I’ve had to have it serviced 3 times. Two times for the wrong size O ring installed on gas ports. Plus they failed to follow through on the all the items included in the sales (had to go direct to the Mfg rep for that to get closed). There are too many shops in and around Portland to waste your time going here.

Stopped in to check out the shop. Great customer service. Answered all my questions and even invited me go along on an up coming dive trip. The store was very nice and organized with lots to choose from.

Underwater works, Tigard Or
I just had to drop a note to you in praise of Jeff Nelson and Jim Peterson.
Maddie (age 10) completed her Open Water dive class yesterday in Hoodsport!
Jeff was her instructor and could not have been a better choice for her, he was firm when he needed yet so understanding and friendly that he won her over and was able to draw out the best in her.
Jim was so helpful in the open water dive weekend, what a pleasure it was to know how safe Maddie was in there hands and how excited she was to learn from them.
You truly have quality instructor’s in these two gentlemen.
Maddie and I are looking forward to many more classes in the near future.
Thanks again
Dr. Dave Selby

Did my PADI open water certification here. The staff were helpful and patient, and made it fun. Will definitely recommend to friends.

Under Water Works changed my life… no seriously it did! Last year I challenged myself to learn how to dive in order to overcome a lifelong fear of the ocean and being in open water in general. When I walked into Under Water Works for the very first time, I was terribly nervous and unsure if I really wanted to go through with my plan. However, after talking with Dave about what the basic open water class would entail, my unease was significantly abated and I signed up.
The class sessions (wet and dry) were invaluable and all my questions were answered clearly and thoroughly. Safety was emphasized at all times, which I really appreciated and took to heart. During my open water certification weekend, the staff was incredibly patient and really instilled the confidence I needed to helped me turn my old phobia into a new passion.
I have now earned a few certifications from UWW and am looking forward to continuing my dive education with them in the future. I have enjoyed all of my instructors and would highly recommend this dive shop to anyone interested in expanding their world. Even if you don’t have a fear of the water – diving will change your life!
Thank you Under Water Works for everything – you are a wonderful shop, run by a fantastic group of divers! xo
PS: I would be remiss if I did not mention that the customer service on equipment repairs, rentals and tank fills is also outstanding!

A top notch dive shop! Decades of experience and knowledge here and more importantly, the patience to explain to and educate customers. I always leave there more informed. They back up the sale of their equipment with thorough servicing, which makes me feel safe and worry-​free on all my dive trips. Can’t say enough good things about my experiences at this shop!

Nice prices on tank refills. Lots of gear in stock and good prices. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.

Under Water Works has been in business in the same location for many years and is very well staffed with highly experienced personnel. This is a PADI 5-​star facility, and you cannot ask for better instruction. I’ve been dealing with UWW for at least 11 years, and four of my certifications were earned through this shop. Customer service is excellent, and the shop is committed to making your Northwest scuba diving and your progression as a diver a rewarding experience. I recommend them without hesitation.