How I earned my Open Water Certification in Koh Tao, Thailand

Hi there! It's Joe. I’ve always dreamed of exploring the marine world, and one of my goals during our 6-month travels in Southeast Asia was to get my Open Water Certification and dive as much as possible.

Before leaving Montreal, I knew I wanted to complete my Open Water Certification with e-learning in Koh Tao, often called the mecca of marine life in Thailand. After doing extensive research on choosing a dive shop abroad, I decided on Sairee Cottage Diving in Koh Tao.

Here’s why:

• PADI Certified - 5 Stars - ensures the center meets international safety standards

• Well-maintained equipment - reviews consistently mentioned their high-quality gear

• Diving insurance included - covered as part of the certification package

• On-site 3-Meter deep pool

• They own their boat

• Beachfront resort Perfect for my family to relax while I was diving 🤪

• English-speaking certified instructors

• Dive computer included - super helpful, and I learned how to use it effectively

In a nutshell, this is how I got my open water certification:

Day 1: Getting Started

Your first day begins with meeting your dive instructor and the rest of the team. This is your chance to get acquainted with the people who will guide you through the certification process. You’ll start by filling out paperwork and medical forms. Important tip: If you have any health conditions or are taking medication, ensure your medical form is signed by a doctor to avoid delays.

The morning is dedicated to theory, where you’ll learn essential concepts like pressure, buoyancy, and equipment handling. In the afternoon, it’s time to get hands-on and practice these skills in a swimming pool. This controlled environment allows you to become comfortable with your equipment under the supervision of your instructor.

After the pool session, you’ll complete sections 1 to 3 of your e-learning course. This self-paced online training reinforces what you’ve learned during the day.

Day 2: First Open Water Dives

The second day starts with more theory in the morning, where you’ll dive deeper into topics that will prepare you for your first open water dives.

In the afternoon, it’s time for your first real taste of open water diving with Dives 1 and 2. While this is where you put your pool training into practice in a natural environment, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous. I wasn’t super comfortable during these dives and felt unsure at times, but that’s all part of the learning process. You’ll still apply the skills you’ve developed, from clearing your mask to managing buoyancy, while adjusting to the underwater world.

In the evening, you’ll move forward with your e-learning, completing sections 4 and 5. You’ll also take the final e-learning exam to test your knowledge and ensure you’re ready for the next step.

Day 3: Final Dives and Certification

Your final day begins with a brief review of the theory, bringing everything together before you head back into the water.

In the afternoon, you’ll complete Dives 3 and 4. On Dive 3, I began to manage my breathing better and felt more in control of my stress. This dive was all about finalizing the skills I’d been working on, and I could feel my confidence growing. By Dive 4, everything came together. I stopped overthinking and simply enjoyed the moment. I finally appreciated the beauty of the underwater world in full.

Completing my Open Water Certification in Koh Tao was more than just ticking off a bucket list item – it was the start of a new adventure. From nervous beginnings to confidently diving in open water, this experience has opened up a whole new world for me. The vibrant marine life, the calm of being underwater, and the sense of accomplishment I felt after each dive have made diving my newfound passion.

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the ocean, I highly recommend taking the plunge. Whether you choose Koh Tao or another diving destination, the journey to becoming a certified diver is one filled with personal growth, unforgettable experiences, and a deeper connection to the wonders of the underwater world. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, and start your adventure today! If you have any questions, drop me a note.

Tips for future divers:

If you are planning on diving often and do not want to invest in a full gear, there's two things that in my opinion you should invest in. A mask that fits your face properly and your own dive computer. Rental masks often don’t fit perfectly, leading to water leakage and discomfort. Investing in a well-fitted mask ensures a much more enjoyable dive experience. Having your own dive computer gives you better control and awareness during your dives, making the experience safer and more personalized.

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