SSI BASIC DIVER COURSE
Take your first step into exploring the underwater world
WHY CHOOSE ECHO DIVERS FOR YOUR SSI BASIC DIVER COURSE?
Are you wanting to dive but not sure if you will like it?
Or maybe you’re only on Koh Tao for 1 day…This is when the SSI Basic diver course is perfect.
A Relaxed First Scuba Experience
We offer you a great scuba dive experience where you will get to enjoy Koh Tao’s beautiful marine life.
However, this is not a certification.
What to Expect in One Afternoon
The SSI Basic Diver is an afternoon that includes some diving theory and a safety briefing, followed by 2 dives in the ocean to a maximum depth of 12 metres!
Instructor Support on Every Dive
Whether you decide to continue on to full certification or simply enjoy the experience, this course gives you a positive
and a memorable introduction to scuba diving.
What’s Included in Our SSI BASIC DIVER Course
All Equipment PROVIDED
Everything you need for your dives is included.
SSI Digital Theory
Simple online learning covering the basics.
GREAT FIRST STEP
A relaxed introduction, with no big commitment.
Confined Water Session
Practise essential skills in a calm environment.
Open Water Dives
Experience real ocean dives at beginner-friendly sites.
NEED A PLACE TO STAY?
We can recommend nearby options after you book.
How Your SSI Basic Diver Course Works
Before entering the water, your instructor will take you through a short theory session about safety and the basics of scuba diving.
Then, before your first dive, you will practise a few safety skills in shallow water near the beach to make sure you’re comfortable.
Once you are ready, your instructor will take you on an experience you’ll never forget!
Part 1: Theory + Confined Water
· Simple theory that covers what you actually need
· Get comfortable with the equipment and breathing underwater
· Practise a few key skills in calm, controlled water
· Build confidence before heading to the sea
Part 2: Open Water Dive
· Your first real ocean dive at a calm, beginner-friendly site
· Take it slowly and enjoy the experience
· Your instructor stays close and guides you step by step
· Finish the day feeling confident and proud
Who Can Join the SSI Basic Diver Course?
The SSI Basic Diver programme is a supervised introduction to diving (up to 12 m) and doesn’t give a full certification —
it’s a great first step if you want to see how diving feels before committing to Open Water.
AGE
You need to be at least 10 years old. If you’re under 18, a parent or guardian will sign the forms for you.
MEDICAL FITNESS
Before you dive, you’ll complete the standard SSI medical and training paperwork. If anything on the medical form is flagged, you may need a doctor’s clearance — we’ll guide you through it.
EXPERIENCE
No previous scuba experience is needed. This course is designed for first-timers.
WATER COMFORT
You don’t need to be a competitive swimmer, but you do need to be comfortable in the water. We ask that you can float or tread water for 10 minutes — it’s just a simple safety check.
WHAT YOU MIGHT SEE ON YOUR FIRST DIVE
You’ll dive in calm, beginner-friendly water — perfect for spotting colourful reef life up close.
Every day is different, but here are a few things we often see around Koh Tao.
BOOK YOUR SSI BASIC DIVER COURSE!
Ready to give scuba diving a try? Book below and we’ll take care of the rest.
SSI Basic Diver Course in Koh Tao –
Try Scuba Diving
฿3,500
Want Epic Memories? Add a Photo or Video Package!
If you’d like photos or a video of your SSI Basic Diver course, our media team can take care of it anytime.
If your group wants to book together, we’ll also apply an on-site discount for everyone.
Popular next steps after your first dives
Once you’ve been underwater, it’s common to start thinking about what’s next.
These are a few directions divers often go from here.
Open Water DIVER course
ADVANCED DIVER course
NITROX DIVER course
DEEP DIVER course
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the SSI Basic Diver Course take?
It’s designed as a one-day experience: a short theory session, calm-water skills, then an open water session
with an SSI Professional.
How deep will we go?
Up to 12 metres, under direct professional supervision.
Do I get certified after this course?
No — The SSI Basic Diver Course does not include a full certification. It’s a proper introduction to scuba diving,
without committing
to the Open Water course straight away.
Is the Basic Diver course safe?
Safety is the whole point. You’ll be with a professional instructor, use quality equipment, and learn the key skills before the dive. The course includes training, full scuba gear, and a guided open water dive.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You don’t need to be fast, but you should be comfortable in the water. We ask that you can float or tread water for 10 minutes as a simple safety check.
Can I fly after my last dive?
The general rule for flying after diving is to wait 12 hours after one dive, and 18 hours after two or more dives. If you went over your no-decompression limits or missed a safety stop on the dive, it is advised to wait 24 hours.
→ More information here ←
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Send us a quick message and our team will get back to you as soon as possible — whether it’s about your course, booking dates, accommodation, or anything else.