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Open Water | Tagged Posts

2019
2
August
Where can I find the best scuba diving classes in southeast Asia?

Question:

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Jordan

Hello everyone!
I was hoping for some advice on where to take some scuba diving classes in southeast Asia and the most beautiful places to dive down there. Thanks in advanced!

Humans say...

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Paul

Look up Thads Place in the Philippines

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Amanda

Most people get certified in Koh Tao, Thailand as it’s quite cheap and has decent diving. I’ve heard the Philippines has amazing diving, as well as Komodo Island in Indonesia. We dove in Thailand and Indonesia which were both fairly good but I’ve heard the others are better! Although there is a place off Bali where you can dive with Mola mola fish!

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Christia

Ko phi phi

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Renata

Coron, Philippines

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Yasmine

Raja Ampat, indonesia.

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Kc

Raja Ampat is a divers paradise but IMHO is not for beginners. Current is too strong.

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Kirsty

I did mine at Ocean Sound on Koh Tao and LOVED it. They’re a “boutique” dive shop in that they really limit the students they take. They also offer yoga classes at discounted rates, which sounds odd, but for anyone that’s familiar with yoga the 2 are natural complements.

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Hay

Zamami island off the coast of Okinawa Japan. Apparently one of the best places to dive in the world

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Sandra

Do the classroom portion in Canada and just get a referral for the open water portion. Why waste your vacation in classes. Also quality tends to be better here.

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Alvin

Lots of dive shops in Toronto. For example Aquarius Scuba does the referral course over 1 weekend for $350 for 2 people. Once you finish the classroom and pool portions you will get a letter which allows you to do 4 ocean dives to test your skills and complete your certification. https://www.aquariusscuba.com/.../open-water-referral.../

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Sandra

Toronto board of education adult classes may do it.

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Katie

We just finished ours in Koh Tao with Ban's diving. Koh Tao is definitely the cheapest place to do it. Half the price of Koh lanta and phi phi islands. Diving is good not great, but it's a great place to learn

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Brynne

Big Blue Diving, Koh Tao!

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Christin

Koh Lanta

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Sara

I was fully certified in Maui. Even the classroom was on the beach!

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Jordan

Thank you everyone so far! I should have specified in the original post but didn't think to. I actually am certified! I did as you guys suggested and did it back home, got a referral and was certified on the great barrier reef actually. I just fell in love with diving while I was down here in Australia and just want to progress further and further. Hopefully get my dive masters.

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Dawn

You should try Fanshawe Conservation Area bahahahaha
Sorry Jordan, I couldn’t resist when I was scrolling and saw your name pop up. Glad you’re doing well and sounds like having a great time. Take care.

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Franklin

Koh Tao, Thailand. Beautiful, peaceful, and cheap. And there’s a lot of dive sites within a close proximity so you don’t spend hours in travel long to a dive site.

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Lisa

Koh Tao is the diving central of Thailand. I’ve heard it amazing. I snorkelled and it was amazing!! Life hanging experience


A.I. says...

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Best Scuba Diving in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, with its warm, crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. From vibrant coral reefs to shipwrecks and underwater caves, this region offers some of the most breathtaking diving experiences in the world. In this blog post, we'll explore the best places for scuba diving in Southeast Asia and where you can take classes to enhance your skills.

Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. The Similan Islands, located in the Andaman Sea, are renowned for their diverse marine life, including sharks, manta rays, and colorful coral reefs. Koh Tao, an island in the Gulf of Thailand, is another excellent spot for diving and is known as a hub for scuba diving certification courses.

Indonesia

Indonesia, with its vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, offers an abundance of diving opportunities. Bali is a top destination, with sites like the USS Liberty shipwreck and the famous Manta Point. Raja Ampat, located in West Papua, is a true diver's paradise, boasting some of the richest marine biodiversity on the planet. The Komodo National Park is also a must-visit, where you can swim with the majestic Komodo dragons.

Malaysia

Malaysia's islands, such as Sipadan and Perhentian, are renowned for their excellent diving conditions and diverse marine life. Sipadan, in particular, is considered one of the best diving spots in the world, with its steep walls, coral gardens, and abundant shark population. The Perhentian Islands offer a more laid-back atmosphere and are perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike.

Where to Take Scuba Diving Classes

Many of the popular diving destinations in Southeast Asia offer scuba diving certification courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Here are some recommended places to take classes:

  • Koh Tao, Thailand: Known as a hub for scuba diving certification, Koh Tao has numerous dive schools offering courses from reputable organizations like PADI and SSI.
  • Bali, Indonesia: Bali is home to several dive centers that provide comprehensive training for all levels, including specialty courses like underwater photography and wreck diving.
  • Perhentian Islands, Malaysia: The Perhentian Islands are a great place for beginners to learn scuba diving, with calm waters and excellent visibility.
  • Sihanoukville, Cambodia: This coastal city in Cambodia has become a popular spot for scuba diving, with several dive schools offering affordable courses.

No matter where you choose to dive in Southeast Asia, you're sure to experience unforgettable underwater adventures and encounter diverse marine life. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect the environment, and enjoy the beauty that lies beneath the waves.



   










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