About Us
Our Story
While our offer of "free lessons with the purchase of tanks" expired in 1959, MSD continues to provide quality scuba education. Originally issuing "Brainerd Skindiving Supply" diver certification cards, MSD joined with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) in 1966 - the year of their inception. PADI now certifies 70% of divers world-wide. Incidentally, MSD founder Bill Matthies with PADI Instructor number 79, is the lowest numbered instructor still actively teaching. We have a very experienced and passionate staff of eight instructors and ten dive masters that look forward to helping you achieve your instructional and recreational goals. For your convenience many of the knowledge development portions of the following dive certification courses are offered in a traditional group classroom environment or online. Because of our nearness to the incredible diving opportunities provided by the Cuyuna State Recreational Area, MSD also offers a scuba referral program for those that may have taken their classroom and pool elsewhere.
Since 1959
The sales, service and dive staff at Minnesota School of Diving are the people who are chiefly responsible for making scuba diving experiences with MSD so enjoyable for our customers. All of our staff started out as diving clients and while progressing through training and participation in diving activities, these individuals demonstrated an understanding and agreement with MSD'S philosophical approach to scuba diving; essentially - creating a positive, compassionate and nurturing environment for training; and organizing fun, social, and exciting experiences, which allow divers opportunities to enjoy their underwater passion. Here at Minnesota School of Diving we appreciate everything the staff does using their experience and knowledge of scuba diving to ensure a fun adventure for all of our customers.
Our Staff
Minnesota School of Diving
Brainerd Location
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712 Washington Street
Brainerd, MN 56401
(218) 829-5953
Our Brainerd facility offers a 9000 sq. ft. showroom, classroom and office area offering scuba instruction, scuba equipment sales, rental and repair, air fills, hydrostatic cylinder service and frequent local scuba diving opportunities.
MSD Brainerd is also the home of Minnesota Commercial Diver Training Center which offers commercial diving certification courses. There are only 7 commercial diving schools total in the US!
Our Facilities
Minnesota School of Diving
St. Cloud Location
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415 Franklin Ave NE
St. Cloud, MN 56304
(320) 251-8967
St. Cloud's facility has a 2400 sq. ft. showroom, classroom and office area offering scuba instruction, equipment sales, rental and repair, and air fills.
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It's also home to the soon to be "World's Largest Collection of Parrot Fish Poop" (aka-sand).
