Hi, I’m Les DeFoor, an Open Water Scuba Instructor who is passionate about sharing the excitement and joy of scuba diving. My journey began back in 1989, sparked by a curiosity about what lies beneath the surface along with the immediate ability to scratch that curiosity. That grew into a lifelong adventure filled with incredible sights, amazing people, and a true commitment to helping others explore the underwater world. After all, the earth is mostly water—why not dive in and see what it holds?
At Salem Scuba, It is my goal to ensure every dive is safe, fun, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a beginner taking your very first breaths underwater, an experienced diver looking to fine-tune your skills or you are looking to go professional, I’m here to make the experience both accessible and enjoyable.
Being involved in various youth activities over the past 20 years, one of my passions is introducing kids to the magic of diving through programs like PADI Bubble Maker and fun events like Discover Scuba Pool Dives.
Scuba diving has been my ticket to meeting some of the nicest people you’ll ever find, traveling to stunning destinations, seeing sea creatures up close and personal that most people only see in books or on postcards. From colorful coral reefs to majestic underwater landscapes, I’ve been lucky enough to experience a lot of what the ocean has to offer — and I’d love to help you do the same.
I’m also passionate about protecting the underwater world that brings us so much joy. Through initiatives like PADI Aware and other conservation activities, I will dedicate myself to raising awareness and doing my part to ensure our oceans stay beautiful for future generations.
If you’re ready to see what’s beneath the surface, start your diving journey, or take your skills to the next level, let’s dive in together! Adventure awaits, and I’ll be with you every step of the way.