Chris Bortnem
Open Water Instructor

Chance, as Chris is known around our shop, has always been a water lover and began his career in the water in the Pacific NW as a swim instructor at the age of 15. Later, he enrolled at Oregon State University with the intent to study marine biology. As part of that desire, he took scuba diving classes every semester, amassing several certifications and specialties. However, his love for teaching saw a shift in his studies to education, and he eventually attained his master's in education and entered the teaching world. After years of teaching physical education, alternative sports, and juggling multiple coaching positions in basketball, track and field, and training endurance athletes for marathons, triathlons, Ironman, and ultra marathons, as well as diving the cold waters of the NW, it was time to find warmer waters. Relocating to Maui to teach scuba diving became a reality post-COVID, and his passion for water and marine biology has come full circle. He still loves exploring the water and especially loves to help others find that passion and confidence to succeed and enjoy this amazing experience. Come train with Chance and let him hone your underwater skills and take you to the next level!