The SSI Open Water Course | LEARN TO DIVE On Koh Tao in 3 Days!
Discover a new world beneath the surface
SSI OPEN WATER course Koh Tao
Ready to learn scuba diving in Koh Tao and earn your first internationally recognised certification?
The SSI Open Water Diver course at Chalok Reef Divers is the perfect way to begin your underwater journey in one of Thailand’s best diving destinations.
This entry-level course teaches essential scuba skills, safety procedures, and underwater confidence — preparing you to dive anywhere in the world.
A BIT MORE ABOUT THE MOST POPULAR KOH TAO DIVING COURSE
Course Overview
Our SSI Open Water Diver course provides comprehensive training that equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to become a confident, safe diver.
This internationally recognised certification is your first step toward earning your diving license and exploring the underwater world. Guided by experienced SSI instructors, you’ll build real diving skills while enjoying Koh Tao’s stunning marine life.
What You’ll Learn
The course consists of several key components:
Knowledge Development
- Learn essential dive theory including equipment use, safety procedures, underwater communication, buoyancy control, and responsible diving practices. SSI digital learning allows you to complete theory at your own pace.
Confined Water Training
- Swimming Pool Training: Practice key scuba skills in calm, shallow water under instructor supervision, building comfort and confidence before open water dives.
Open Water Training Dives
- Water Training Dives: Complete four open water dives at Koh Tao dive sites where you’ll apply your new skills, practice buoyancy control, and experience real diving conditions at dive sites such as Mango Bay, Japanese Gardens, Twins, and White Rock.
- Dive Equipment Familiarization: Learn to use scuba equipment including regulators, buoyancy control devices, gauges, and underwater communication methods.
Course Structure
The typical duration of our Open Water course is 3–4 days and includes:
• Online theory and classroom review
• Confned water skill training
• Four open water training dives
• Skill development and confidence building
Training begins in calm, shallow conditions before progressing to deeper open water dives.
Quality of Training & Course Schedule
At Chalok Reef Divers, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality training in a relaxed and supportive environment. With low student-to-instructor ratios, you receive personalised attention and guidance throughout the course.
Our experienced dive professionals focus on building your confidence, safety awareness, and comfort in the water — ensuring you feel fully prepared for your underwater adventures.
Day 1 – Orientation & Confined Water Training
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Meet your instructor for course orientation, paperwork, and medical forms.
8:00 – 10:00 AM (next morning)
Theory review session covering key dive concepts.
10:00 – 11:30 AM
Break & lunch.
12:00 – 4:00 PM
Confined water training in the pool at our dive resort.
You’ll learn essential scuba skills in calm, shallow water, including:
• breathing underwater
• buoyancy control
• mask clearing & regulator recovery
• safety procedures & emergency drills
4:30 PM
Debrief and skill review.
Day 2 – Theory Review & First Open Water Dives
9:00 – 10:30 AM
Interactive session covering dive planning and safety.
You’ll complete the final exam (multiple choice — your instructor ensures you’re well prepared).
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Lunch break.
12:00 – 5:00 PM
Open Water Dives 1 & 2
Maximum depth: 12 metres
This is your first real ocean diving experience around Koh Tao.
Day 3 – Final Open Water Dives & Certification
7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Morning dive boat trip to complete Open Water Dives 3 & 4.
Maximum depth: 18 metres
After returning:
• Log your dives
• Complete certification paperwork
• Receive your SSI Open Water Diver certification
You are now a certified diver!
Our structured training approach ensures you progress safely and confidently while enjoying Koh Tao’s incredible underwater environment.
A BIT MORE ABOUT THE MOST POPULAR KOH TAO DIVING COURSE
Additional Information
- Medical Statement: A medical questionnaire is required to ensure that you are fit for diving activities. Please disclose any medical conditions that may affect your ability to dive.
- Dive Insurance: We recommend obtaining dive insurance before participating in any diving activities.
- Equipment Rental: Scuba diving equipment is available for rental at an additional charge. We provide a comprehensive range of high-quality gear to ensure your comfort and safety during each dive.
- Accommodation Options: We offer various accommodation options near our dive shop, making it easy for you to relax after a day of diving. Enjoy advantageous accommodation deals that cater to different budgets.
Dive Sites and Experiences
Koh Tao is renowned as one of the best diving destinations in Thailand, attracting scuba diving customers from around the world. Experience the beauty of soft corals, rock formations, and vibrant marine ecosystems during your dives. Our water training dives at locations such as Koh Nang Yuan will provide you with unforgettable underwater experiences.
Dive Trips and Adventures
During your Open Water course, you’ll explore beautiful reef environments while building essential diving skills.
After certification, you can continue your adventure with:
• SSI Advanced Diver
• Enriched Air Nitrox
• Deep Diving & Wreck Specialties
• Fun Diving around Koh Tao’s top dive sites
Join Us Today!
Enroll in our Open Water course today and start your adventurous diving lifestyle! With our competitive prices for diving programs and price guarantee, you can be assured of a fantastic experience on Koh Tao.
For more information on course schedules, prices, and accommodation options, feel free to contact us at Chalok Reef Divers. Your incredible scuba diving journey awaits
FAQ's: PRICES, PREREQUISITES, AND OTHER IMPORTANT INFO
Getting Started
How much does the Open Water Diver course cost?
The standard price is 10,950 THB. A 10% discount is available if you also book accommodation at Woodlawn Villas.
Can I combine the course with accommodation?
Yes — if you book your course with us at Chalok Reef Hostel or a stay at Woodlawn Villas, you’ll receive a 10% discount on the course price.
Health & Requirements
What is the minimum age for the Open Water course?
You must be at least 10 years old to take the SSI Open Water Diver course.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, basic swimming ability is required. You should be able to swim 200 meters and float for 10 minutes.
How fit do I need to be for the course?
You should be in good health and comfortable in the water. No prior diving experience is needed.
Do I need a medical form to scuba dive?
All participants must complete a medical questionnaire (download here) before starting any diving course. If you’re unsure about any responses, please contact us.
Is the course difficult?
No, the SSI Open Water Diver course is not difficult. It’s specifically designed for beginners, including children as young as 10 years old. The course focuses on building your skills step-by-step, with plenty of time to practice in a supportive and fun environment. Most students find the course both manageable and enjoyable, especially with our experienced instructors guiding you through every part of the learning process.
Course Details
How long does the Open Water Diver course take?
Our Open Water Diver course in Koh Tao typically takes 3 days to complete. It includes online theory, confined water sessions, and four open water dives at some of the island’s best dive sites. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, we also offer the option to complete the theory on Koh Tao and spread the course over 4 days. This flexible schedule is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy diving without rushing.
Do I need to complete any online theory before I arrive on Koh Tao?
Yes, you’ll need to complete the online theory before starting the practical part of the SSI Open Water Diver course. Most people prefer to complete it in advance so they can enjoy their holiday on Koh Tao without spending time studying. Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll send you access to the SSI digital learning materials, which you can complete at your own pace.
If you decide to book the course after arriving on Koh Tao, that’s no problem—just allow an extra day to complete the theory before starting your in-water training. In that case, the course typically takes 4 days instead of 3.
How long does the online theory take to complete?
The SSI Open Water Diver course includes a flexible, self-paced online theory component. Most students complete it in 6 to 10 hours, depending on how quickly they go through the materials. You can break it into short sessions or complete it all in one go—it’s up to you. If you prefer, we can also offer review sessions to help you with any questions.
What should I bring to the course?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your enthusiasm! All diving equipment and learning materials are included in your course—just bring yourself and be ready for adventure.
What dive sites will we visit during the course?
We typically dive at calm, beginner-friendly sites such as Mango Bay, Japanese Gardens, Twins, and White Rock — depending on conditions.
Will I see marine life during training?
Yes. Many training dives take place on coral reefs where you can observe tropical marine life while developing your diving skills. Common sightings include butterflyfish, parrotfish, angelfish, groupers, and reef invertebrates. You may also encounter clams, sea cucumbers, and occasionally turtles or stingrays. Marine life sightings vary daily, but Koh Tao’s reefs provide an exciting introduction to the underwater world.
Is Koh Tao a good place to learn scuba diving?
Yes — Koh Tao is widely considered one of the best places in the world to learn scuba diving. The island offers calm, protected bays, excellent underwater visibility, and warm tropical water year-round. Shallow training sites provide ideal conditions for beginners, while colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life make every dive exciting. These safe and comfortable conditions allow new divers to focus on learning skills with confidence.
Logistics
Can I fly after diving?
You should wait at least 18 hours after your final dive before flying.
Can I bring a camera or GoPro during the course?
No. Due to new regulations introduced in Thailand, students in entry-level scuba diving courses (like Open Water) are not allowed to use cameras or GoPros during training dives. This includes head-mounted cameras. The rule is in place to protect marine life and help students stay focused on their safety and skills.
Certification & After the Course
What will I get when I complete the SSI Open Water course?
Upon completion, you will receive the SSI Open Water Diver certification, allowing you to dive worldwide to a maximum depth of 18 metres.
Your certification is digitally stored in the MySSI app and recognised globally.