SSI Open Water Diver Course

Access to worldwide recognized scuba certification and remarkable underwater experiences.

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SSI Open Water Diver Course

The SSI Open Water Diver Course is the world’s most popular scuba certification program and the first full certification for aspiring divers. Designed for beginners, this course teaches you how to dive safely, confidently, and independently with a buddy, up to a maximum depth of 18 meters.

Through a blend of digital learning, pool training, and open water dives, you will gain the knowledge, skills, and experience required to explore the underwater world anywhere across the globe.

Course Details

During the SSI Open Water Diver Course, you will learn:
  • Scuba equipment usage and care

  • Breathing and buoyancy control

  • Mask clearing and regulator recovery

  • Underwater communication and safety signals

  • Dive planning, Buddy procedures, and Emergency basics

  • Responsible and eco-friendly diving practices

This course builds strong foundational skills and confidence, preparing you for independent (with buddy) recreational diving worldwide.

Course Structure

Digital Theory Learning

SSI’s online learning platform lets you study dive theory at your own pace—anytime, anywhere.
Confined Water (Pool) Training

Learn and practice essential scuba skills in a controlled, comfortable environment.
Open Water Experience Dives

Apply your skills in shallow open water with instructor supervision.

Where Does It Happen?

The program consists of 3 modules, which can be done individually or all together with us:

Academic development: This is done via self-study, using online materials that we will assign to you. Here, you learn more about the physics, physiology and other aspects of diving and the underwater world.

Confined Water training: This consists of 2 days of skills training in a pool, where you learn more about dive equipment as well as master the various skills needed to dive safely. In addition, there is also one online session with an instructor to review diving knowledge and also the skills covered in the pool session

4 Open Water dives: These are deep water dives, where you practice the skills you have learned in confined water and also get to experience and enjoy the magic of the underworld world.

Pre-requisites & Eligibility

  • Minimum age: 10 years

  • Maximum age – none (subject to fitness/medical clearance)

  • Capability to float or tread water for 10 minutes without requiring any external assistance

  • Able to swim 200m unaided or 300m with a mask+snorkel (while training can start without meeting this, completion required for certification)

  • No prior certification needed

  • Good general health (medical form required)

May require medical clearance for certain conditions.

What’s Included

  • SSI Open Water Diver course materials

  • Full set of scuba equipment

  • Access to SSI Digital Learning

  • Confined and open water training sessions

  • Instructor supervision and skill assessments

  • Safety briefings and dive preparation

People ask this questions

Is pool training required?

Yes, pool/confined water is a vital part of skill development.
How long is the certification valid?

SSI certifications do not expire, though refresher training is encouraged if inactive.
What should I bring?

Swimwear, towel, water bottle, comfort items.

Certification Details

Upon successful course completion, you earn the SSI Open Water Diver recognition — a foundational certification that prepares you to continue to the SSI Adv. Open Water Diver program or specialty training. This certification highlights your commitment and readiness for deeper training.