Why "YAY"?
Because that's what diving feels like. YAY Scuba was built on a simple idea: diving is joyful, and everything we do, from training to gear to apparel, should carry that feeling.
Who we are
YAY Scuba is a diver-focused shop and registered PADI training center based in Perry Hall, Maryland. We offer scuba gear, accessories, training, and apparel for divers at every stage, from their first breath underwater to their first day as a dive professional.
Meet the founder
YAY Scuba was founded by Thor Tryggvason, owner and lead instructor, who has been diving for 35 years and working as a PADI Professional for more than 25. Before starting YAY Scuba, Thor was instructing for a shop a long drive away, because there was no PADI shop in our area. Local divers deserved better than that, and turning a lifelong love of diving into a business was the perfect match. Thor loves every kind of diving, but wrecks hold a special place, especially the ones with a story behind them.
None of this would be possible without our team of Divemasters and support staff, who bring the same care and enthusiasm to every class, dive, and event.
How we teach
Safety is our highest priority, and small classes are how we deliver it. Our typical class has just 2 to 6 students, so everyone gets real attention, plenty of practice, and the time they need to become confident, capable divers. We train in the pool in Perry Hall and Bel Air, in local quarries, and on group dive trips.
We teach everything from Discover Scuba through Divemaster, plus specialties including Night, Wreck, Deep, and Self-Reliant Diving.
Gear from people who dive
We're an authorized dealer for Atomic, Oceanic, Hollis, Zeagle, and HOG, so you get genuine products with full manufacturer support. We offer in-person fittings by appointment and service regulators and BCDs, so we're here long after the sale. The gear we sell is gear we know, use, and teach with.
Our apparel follows the same idea as everything else here: simplicity and joy.
More than a dive shop
YAY Scuba is a community. We regularly host social events in the area, organize group trips, and lead conservation and cleanup dives to help protect the waters we love.
Why divers trust us
- 35 years of diving and 25+ years as a PADI Professional
- PADI 25-Year Professional Membership award
- Four years with more than 50 certifications each
- Dozens of five-star reviews on Google and WeTravel
- Small classes of 2 to 6 students, with safety first
Come dive with us
Whether you're looking for your first class, your next piece of gear, or a group to dive with, we'd love to hear from you. Contact our team or call/text 443-379-4450.