LEARN TO DIVE PHI PHI
Beginner PADI Scuba Diving Courses in Thailand
LEARN TO DIVE ON PHI PHI
~Learn to dive on Phi Phi with the BEST dive team! ~
Learn to dive Phi Phi Island with Blue View Divers, Phi Phi’s first PADI 5 Star Eco Dive Centre.
Discover the underwater world with experienced instructors, small groups and personalised training. Whether you’re trying scuba diving for the first time or earning your PADI Open Water certification, we’ll help you feel safe and confident.
*Study before you arrive with your own personal eLearning!
COURSES START
EVERY DAY
~ No Experience? No Problem! ~
Explore beautiful coral reefs, swim alongside tropical fish and look out for blacktip reef sharks or sea turtles! With over 20 dive sites around Phi Phi, your first underwater adventure starts in one of Thailand’s most amazing marine environments.
Choose a 1/2 day Discover Scuba experience or begin your journey towards an internationally recognised PADI certification.
Studying eLearning before arrival allows flexible scheduling as you learn at your own pace with our friendly team.
*Book a 1/2 day experience dive OR complete your PADI certification with us!
Choose Your Beginner PADI Diving Course:
PADI Discover Scuba
Discover Scuba may be the best thing you do on your trip!
No certification or experience required! Discover the underwater world with a PADI instructor, enjoying two beautiful reef dives and experience diving in a small group of just 2:1. An amazing experience you will never forget, diving with more fish you can imagine in addition to patient, caring instructors and possibly a friendly turtle on your Discover Scuba Diving in Phi Phi.
PADI Scuba Diver
As easy entry level course with certification to 12 metres.
Short on time? Earn your internationally recognised PADI Scuba Diver certification to explore depths of up to 12 metres after this 1 day course. A great first step towards becoming an Open Water Diver. Explore our PADI Scuba Diver Course. Then, if you love it, continue training that same day to Full Open Water level Additionally, you can choose any PADI Centre around the world to upgrade to Open Water.
PADI Open Water
Learn to dive on Phi Phi with your 18 metre full-certification!
Get Your PADI Open Water Certification! Become a certified scuba diver in just 2–3 days and explore the underwater world to 18 metres! Learn essential diving skills in small groups with experienced instructors at Phi Phi’s beautiful dive sites. Courses start daily, giving you the chance to learn alongside blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, clownfish and colourful coral reefs. Your underwater adventure starts here!
PADI Open Water Referral
Complete your Course on Phi Phi if you started elsewhere
Already started your PADI Open Water course elsewhere? Complete your remaining Open Water dives or confined training in Phi Phi with our experienced instructors. If you started with another PADI Centre and have some unfinished modules, we’d love to complete your leanring journye! Enjoy colourful reefs, tropical marine life and personalised instruction. Learn About Open Water Referrals.
Frequently asked Questions:
How much are National Park fees?
Do I have to do a Medical Checkup?
Learn to Dive: Standard Diver Medical for students:
Firstly, If you are learning to dive in one of our PADI programs, you must review the RSTC Medical prior to signing up and inform us of any YES answer.
What if I have a yes on the medical?
If you answer YES to questions 3, 5 or 10 OR to any of the questions on page 2, you must fill out the
statement in addition to signing and dating it AND take all three pages of this form to your physician for a medical evaluation.
In addition, divers with any YES answers are obliged to gain physician’s clearance each year.
Therefore we recommend that you check with your doctor at home and bring the signed form, in addition to sending via email prior to starting your course.
Please note that some medical conditions are contradictory for diving, therefore we must review with every student to ensure your safety and to follow industry standards.
Your safety and insurance
Additionally you should have travel insurance to cover you for diving with said conditions or medications.
You must inform us of any medical conditions prior to diving and present your ‘RSTC Fit to Dive‘ signed off by a doctor within the past year.
Divers are required to declare health conditions on our digital signup form.
If you answer YES to any to any questions listed then you must print out the RSTC Medical form and get signed off for diving for safety and insurance purposes.
Finally, please click to see a full Medical Statement
Do I Need a Medical Certificate to Learn to Dive in Phi Phi?
Your safety is our priority at Blue View Divers. Before joining any of our PADI scuba diving programmes, all students must complete a Diver Medical Questionnaire.
This medical screening helps identify health conditions that may affect your safety underwater.
We recommend reviewing the Diver Medical Statement and Questionnaire before booking your scuba diving course in Phi Phi.
What Happens If I Answer YES to a Medical Question?
Answering YES does not automatically mean you cannot scuba dive. However, some medical conditions require a doctor’s assessment before you can participate.
Under the standard Diver Medical Questionnaire, a YES to questions 3, 5 or 10, or to relevant follow-up questions on page 2, requires medical evaluation and clearance.
You must complete the relevant sections and take the medical documentation to a physician for assessment.
If medical clearance is required, you cannot begin in-water scuba training until your doctor confirms you are fit to dive.
Please inform Blue View Divers of any YES answers before your course begins so we can advise you on the next steps.
Can I Get My Diving Medical Certificate Before Travelling?
Yes, and we strongly recommend it!
If you have a medical condition, take the questionnaire to your doctor before travelling to Thailand.
Ask your physician to complete the required medical clearance and bring the signed documentation with you.
At Blue View Divers, we require medical clearance to be dated within the previous 12 months when a doctor’s approval is necessary.
We recommend sending us a copy before arrival so we can check that the required documentation is complete.
This helps prevent unexpected delays to your PADI Open Water Course or Discover Scuba Diving experience.
Do Divers Over 65 Need a Medical Certificate?
Yes. At Blue View Divers, all divers over 65 must provide medical clearance before scuba diving, even if they have answered NO to the medical screening questions.
Your certificate must confirm that you are medically fit to participate in scuba diving activities.
We recommend arranging this with your doctor before travelling to Phi Phi.
This requirement applies to beginner diving experiences, PADI courses and certified divers.
Can I Get Medical Clearance on Phi Phi Island?
If you require medical clearance after arriving on Phi Phi, local clinics may be able to provide a diving medical assessment.
However, approval is never guaranteed. A physician may request additional tests or specialist advice, particularly for certain medical conditions or medications.
We strongly recommend obtaining clearance before travelling to avoid delays, additional costs or cancellation of your diving plans.
Do I Need Scuba Diving Insurance?
We recommend that all students have travel insurance that specifically covers recreational scuba diving.
Blue View Divers offers optional basic dive accident insurance through Bangkok Insurance. However, this may not provide the same protection as comprehensive travel or specialist diving insurance.
If you have an existing medical condition, check that your insurance policy covers that condition, your planned diving activities and any relevant depth limits.
Medical clearance and insurance coverage are separate requirements. A doctor’s approval to dive does not automatically guarantee insurance coverage.
For additional information about diving health and safety, visit Divers Alert Network (DAN).
Do I Need to Declare Medical Conditions When Booking?
Yes. All students must complete our digital registration and medical screening before participating in scuba diving activities.
You must declare relevant medical conditions, medications and any changes to your health that could affect diving safety.
If your answers indicate that medical clearance is required, please arrange this before your scheduled activity.
Our instructors cannot override a medical requirement or provide medical clearance themselves.
Download the Diver Medical Questionnaire
Before booking your PADI diving course, please review the medical questionnaire carefully.
Download the Diver Medical Statement and Questionnaire (PDF)
If you are unsure whether you need a medical certificate, contact Blue View Divers before booking.
Planning ahead helps you start your scuba diving adventure in Phi Phi safely, confidently and without unnecessary delays.
How Long Does It Take to Get PADI Certified in Phi Phi?
How Long Does It Take to Get PADI Certified in Phi Phi?
Our PADI Open Water Course typically takes 2–3 days. However, the exact schedule depends on your preparation, travel plans and individual progress.
At Blue View Divers, we offer flexible PADI training schedules to help you make the most of your time on Phi Phi Island. With a little advance planning, you can spend less time studying on holiday and more time exploring our beautiful reefs!
Complete Your PADI eLearning Before Arriving
The easiest way to learn to dive in Phi Phi is to complete your PADI eLearning before travelling.
This includes watching your course videos, completing knowledge reviews and finishing the required theory assessments.
When you book directly with Blue View Divers, we arrange access to your learning materials once your booking is confirmed. You can then study at your own pace before arriving.
Completing your theory in advance allows you to focus on practical scuba training and enjoy a more relaxed holiday.
Arrive on Phi Phi One Day Before Your Course
We recommend arriving on Phi Phi at least one day before your PADI course begins.
This gives you time to settle into your accommodation, visit our dive centre and complete your registration.
You can also meet our instructors, try on your equipment and discuss your training schedule.
Most importantly, arriving early reduces the risk of ferry delays or unfinished paperwork affecting your first training day.
Your Hotel Location and Travel Plans Matter
Where you stay on Phi Phi can affect your scuba diving schedule.
Accommodation near Tonsai Village makes it easier to reach our meeting points. However, some remote resorts require additional longtail boat transfers.
Your ferry arrival time, hotel location and departure plans all influence how we organise your course.
Therefore, we recommend sharing your travel details when booking so we can help plan a suitable schedule.
Allow Time for Practical Scuba Training
Your PADI Open Water certification includes confined-water training, essential scuba skills and four open-water training dives.
Every student learns at a different pace. Some complete their training quickly, while others benefit from additional practice.
At Blue View Divers, we prioritise small groups, personalised instruction and safety rather than rushing students through their certification.
Our goal is to help you become a safe, comfortable and confident diver.
Plan Your Departure and No-Fly Time
If you’re leaving Phi Phi immediately after your course, please consider your travel arrangements carefully.
We recommend allowing 24 hours between your final scuba dive and flying. This also applies if you’re taking a domestic flight from Phuket or Krabi.
You should also allow sufficient time for your ferry or speedboat connection after training.
Ideally, stay an extra night on Phi Phi after your course. This gives you time to relax and enjoy the island before travelling.
Our Recommended PADI Open Water Schedule
For the smoothest experience, we suggest the following:
Before Arrival: Complete your PADI eLearning, including all videos and theory assessments.
Day Before Training: Arrive on Phi Phi, settle into your hotel and visit Blue View Divers for registration, equipment fitting and orientation.
Training Days 1–3: Complete your confined-water skills and four open-water dives with our experienced PADI instructors. Your exact schedule depends on your progress and preparation.
After Certification: Celebrate becoming a PADI Open Water Diver! Enjoy Phi Phi Island and allow at least 24 hours before flying.
Ready to get certified? Explore our PADI Open Water Course in Phi Phi and contact our team to plan the best training schedule for your holiday.
What Is the Difference Between Discover Scuba Diving and PADI Open Water?
What Is the Difference Between Discover Scuba Diving and PADI Open Water?
If you’re planning to learn to dive in Phi Phi, you may be wondering whether to try Discover Scuba Diving or complete your PADI Open Water certification.
Both programmes are suitable for beginners with no previous scuba diving experience. However, they offer different levels of training, independence and certification.
At Blue View Divers, we offer both experiences in small groups, with experienced PADI instructors and a strong focus on safety.
PADI Discover Scuba Diving – Try Diving Without Certification
Our PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience is perfect for beginners who want to explore the underwater world without committing to a full diving course.
No previous diving experience or certification is required!
You’ll learn basic scuba diving techniques, practise essential safety skills and enjoy two open-water dives under the direct supervision of your PADI instructor.
With a maximum depth of 12 metres, you can discover colourful coral reefs, tropical fish and possibly even blacktip reef sharks or sea turtles.
At Blue View Divers, we maintain a maximum ratio of 2 beginners per instructor, allowing plenty of personal attention.
Duration: Half-day experience, approximately 4.5–5 hours.
Certification: No diving certification awarded.
Best for: First-time divers, holidaymakers and anyone curious about scuba diving.
PADI Open Water – Become a Certified Scuba Diver
Our PADI Open Water Course is designed for beginners who want to become internationally recognised certified scuba divers.
Over approximately 2–3 days, you’ll complete theory, confined-water training and four open-water training dives.
You’ll learn essential skills, including buoyancy control, underwater communication, equipment management and safe diving procedures.
Once certified, you can dive to 18 metres with a suitably qualified buddy, within the limits of your training and experience, without requiring direct instructor supervision.
Your PADI Open Water certification is recognised by dive centres worldwide and does not expire.
Duration: Approximately 2–3 days, depending on preparation and progress.
Certification: PADI Open Water Diver.
Best for: Beginners who want to continue scuba diving on future holidays or explore diving as a new hobby.
Discover Scuba Diving vs PADI Open Water – Which Should You Choose?
Both programmes introduce you to scuba diving in the beautiful Phi Phi Islands. However, the right choice depends on your holiday schedule and future diving plans.
Choose Discover Scuba Diving if you want to experience breathing underwater, explore coral reefs and enjoy a guided adventure without completing a full course.
Choose PADI Open Water if you want to develop independent diving skills, earn a lifetime certification and continue diving around the world.
If you have enough time on Phi Phi and already know you want to become a diver, we recommend going directly for your Open Water certification.
Can I Upgrade From Discover Scuba Diving to PADI Open Water?
Yes! Discover Scuba Diving is a great introduction to scuba diving and can help you decide whether to continue your training.
Under certain conditions, skills and training completed during your Discover Scuba Diving programme may count towards your PADI Open Water Course.
However, this depends on the training completed, instructor assessment and applicable PADI requirements. Credit is not automatic.
If you’re considering continuing to certification, let our instructors know before your first dive so we can discuss your options.
Learn more about PADI scuba diving courses.
Where Will I Dive During My Beginner Scuba Experience?
Phi Phi is a fantastic destination for beginner scuba diving, with sheltered bays, colourful reefs and abundant marine life.
Both Discover Scuba Diving participants and Open Water students may visit dive sites around Phi Phi Leh and the Bida Islands, depending on conditions and training requirements.
You might encounter blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, clownfish, schools of tropical fish and beautiful coral formations.
Our dive sites are generally just 15–30 minutes from Phi Phi Island, allowing more time underwater and less time travelling.
Explore more about scuba diving in Phi Phi.
Learn to Dive in Phi Phi With Blue View Divers
As Phi Phi’s first PADI 5 Star Eco Centre, Blue View Divers specialises in small-group scuba diving experiences with personalised instruction.
Whether you’re trying scuba diving for the first time or working towards your PADI certification, our experienced instructors will help you build confidence and enjoy the underwater world safely.
Ready to take your first breath underwater?
Explore our beginner scuba diving programmes in Phi Phi or book your PADI Open Water Course and begin your diving adventure!
What Is the Difference Between Discover Scuba Diving and PADI Scuba Diver?
What Is the Difference Between Discover Scuba Diving and PADI Scuba Diver?
If you’re planning to learn to dive in Phi Phi, you might be wondering whether to try Discover Scuba Diving or earn your PADI Scuba Diver certification.
Both programmes are suitable for complete beginners and require no previous scuba diving experience. However, there is one important difference: Discover Scuba Diving is an introductory experience, while PADI Scuba Diver is an internationally recognised certification.
At Blue View Divers, we offer both programmes in small groups, with experienced PADI instructors and a strong focus on safety.
PADI Discover Scuba Diving – Try Scuba Diving Without Certification
Our Discover Scuba Diving experience is perfect for beginners who want to experience the underwater world without committing to a certification course.
You’ll learn basic scuba diving techniques, practise essential safety skills and enjoy two beautiful reef dives under the direct supervision of your PADI instructor.
With a maximum depth of 12 metres, you can explore colourful coral reefs and discover Phi Phi’s incredible marine life.
At Blue View Divers, we maintain a maximum ratio of 2 beginners per instructor, allowing plenty of personal attention.
Duration: Half-day experience, approximately 4.5–5 hours.
Maximum depth: 12 metres.
Certification: No diving certification awarded.
Best for: First-time divers, holidaymakers and anyone curious about scuba diving.
PADI Scuba Diver – Earn Your First Diving Certification
The PADI Scuba Diver Course is ideal for beginners who want to become certified but have limited time on Phi Phi Island.
This course covers part of the full PADI Open Water programme. You’ll complete theory, confined-water skills and two open-water training dives.
During your training, you’ll learn essential scuba skills, including equipment preparation, buoyancy control, underwater communication and safe diving procedures.
Once certified, you can dive to 12 metres under the direct supervision of a PADI Professional, within the limits of your training.
Your PADI Scuba Diver certification is recognised internationally and does not expire.
Duration: Usually 1–2 days, depending on preparation and progress.
Maximum depth: 12 metres.
Certification: PADI Scuba Diver.
Best for: Beginners who want a recognised diving qualification but don’t have enough time to complete the full Open Water Course.
Learn more about the official PADI Scuba Diver programme.
Discover Scuba Diving vs PADI Scuba Diver – Which Should You Choose?
Both programmes introduce you to scuba diving around the beautiful Phi Phi Islands. However, your choice depends on your available time and future diving plans.
Choose Discover Scuba Diving if you simply want to try scuba diving, enjoy two guided reef dives and experience breathing underwater for the first time.
Choose PADI Scuba Diver if you want to complete formal scuba training and earn a certification that allows you to continue diving with PADI Professionals around the world.
If you already know you want to continue scuba diving but have limited time, we recommend the PADI Scuba Diver Course.
Can I Upgrade From PADI Scuba Diver to Open Water?
Absolutely! One of the biggest advantages of becoming a PADI Scuba Diver is that your training counts towards the full Open Water certification.
When you’re ready, you can complete the remaining theory, confined-water skills and open-water training dives to become a fully certified PADI Open Water Diver.
This allows you to increase your maximum training depth from 12 metres to 18 metres and dive with a suitably qualified buddy without direct professional supervision.
You can complete your upgrade at Blue View Divers or another PADI Dive Centre, subject to training records and PADI requirements.
Explore our PADI Open Water Course in Phi Phi.
Can Discover Scuba Diving Count Towards a PADI Certification?
Yes, in some circumstances!
If you enjoy your Discover Scuba Diving experience and decide to continue, certain skills and training may count towards your PADI Scuba Diver or Open Water certification.
However, this depends on the training completed, instructor assessment and applicable PADI requirements. Credit is not automatic.
If you’re considering certification, tell our instructors before your first dive. We can explain your options and help you choose the most suitable programme.
Where Will I Dive During My Beginner Scuba Course?
Phi Phi is a wonderful destination for beginner scuba diving, with colourful coral reefs, sheltered bays and incredible tropical marine life.
Depending on weather conditions and training requirements, you may explore dive sites around Phi Phi Leh and the Bida Islands.
Keep an eye out for blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, clownfish, schools of tropical fish and beautiful coral formations.
Most local dive sites are only 15–30 minutes from Phi Phi Island, meaning less travel time and more time enjoying the underwater world.
Discover more about [scuba
What Is the Difference Between PADI Scuba Diver and PADI Open Water?
What Is the Difference Between PADI Scuba Diver and PADI Open Water?
If you’re planning to learn to dive in Phi Phi, choosing between the PADI Scuba Diver and Open Water courses depends on your available time, experience and future diving plans.
Both courses provide internationally recognised PADI certifications. However, the main differences are the amount of training required, maximum diving depth and level of independence.
At Blue View Divers, we offer both programmes in small groups, with experienced PADI instructors and personalised training schedules.
PADI Scuba Diver – Your First Scuba Diving Certification
The PADI Scuba Diver Course is ideal for beginners who want to become certified but have limited time on Phi Phi Island.
You’ll complete part of the full Open Water programme, including theory, confined-water skills and two open-water training dives.
Once certified, you can dive to 12 metres under the direct supervision of a PADI Professional.
Your certification is recognised worldwide and does not expire. However, you must always dive under professional supervision until you upgrade.
Duration: Approximately 1–2 days, depending on preparation and progress.
Maximum depth: 12 metres.
Certification: PADI Scuba Diver.
Best for: Beginners with limited time who want to earn their first scuba diving qualification.
Learn more about the official PADI Scuba Diver Course.
PADI Open Water – Become an Independent Certified Diver
Our PADI Open Water Course in Phi Phi is the next step towards becoming a confident, independent scuba diver.
You’ll complete the full PADI theory programme, confined-water training and four open-water training dives.
During your course, you’ll develop essential diving skills, including buoyancy control, underwater navigation, equipment management and safe diving procedures.
Once certified, you can dive to 18 metres with a suitably qualified buddy, without requiring direct professional supervision, within the limits of your training and experience.
Your PADI Open Water certification is recognised worldwide and does not expire.
Duration: Approximately 2–3 days, depending on preparation and progress.
Maximum depth: 18 metres.
Certification: PADI Open Water Diver.
Best for: Beginners who want to continue scuba diving on future holidays and explore dive sites around the world.
PADI Scuba Diver vs Open Water – Which Should You Choose?
Both certifications allow you to enjoy incredible underwater experiences. However, they offer different levels of diving freedom.
PADI Scuba Diver is a great option if you have limited time, prefer diving with a professional or want to complete your training in stages.
PADI Open Water is the better choice if you have enough time to complete the full course and want greater independence when diving.
If you’re planning to dive regularly in the future, we recommend completing your Open Water certification.
However, if your holiday is short, becoming a PADI Scuba Diver is an excellent first step.
Can I Upgrade From PADI Scuba Diver to Open Water at Blue View Divers?
Absolutely! You can upgrade your PADI Scuba Diver certification to Open Water with us on Phi Phi Island.
Because the Scuba Diver programme covers part of the full Open Water course, you don’t need to repeat training you’ve already completed successfully.
Your upgrade normally includes:
Completing the remaining PADI theory and assessments.
Finishing the remaining confined-water skills.
Completing Open Water training dives 3 and 4.
Demonstrating the required water skills and diving competencies.
If you’ve already completed your PADI eLearning, upgrading may be quicker and easier to arrange.
We can organise your remaining training around our regular dive schedules, subject to instructor availability and your individual progress.
Once you’ve successfully completed all requirements, you’ll receive your PADI Open Water Diver certification, allowing you to dive to 18 metres with a suitably qualified buddy.
Explore our PADI Open Water Course or contact Blue View Divers to arrange your upgrade.
Can I Upgrade During the Same Holiday?
Yes! If you complete your PADI Scuba Diver certification and decide you’d like to continue, we can help arrange your Open Water upgrade during the same holiday.
This is particularly useful if you initially booked a shorter course but discover that you love scuba diving!
Depending on your progress, completed theory and our availability, you may be able to continue your training without a long break.
We recommend letting us know as early as possible if you’re considering upgrading.
Our advice: If you already have enough time and intend to complete Open Water, booking the full course from the beginning is usually the simplest option.
Can I Upgrade My PADI Scuba Diver Certification in the Future?
Yes! You can return to Phi Phi or continue your training at another PADI Dive Centre worldwide.
Your PADI Scuba Diver certification does not expire, so you don’t need to upgrade immediately.
You might complete your first certification during a short holiday in Thailand, then finish your Open Water training months or even years later.
However, if you’ve been out of the water for some time, your instructor may recommend a refresher or additional practice before continuing.
Previous training can be credited towards the full certification, subject to PADI requirements, training records and an assessment of your current skills.
This flexibility makes PADI Scuba Diver an excellent starting point for travellers who prefer to learn gradually.
Find out more about PADI scuba diving education.
What If I Started My PADI Course at Another Dive Centre?
If you’ve already completed part of your Open Water training elsewhere, you may be able to finish your certification at Blue View Divers.
For example, you might complete your theory and confined-water training at home, then travel to Phi Phi to complete your remaining open-water dives.
This is known as a PADI Open Water Referral.
You will need the appropriate training documentation, and referral training must be completed within PADI’s applicable time limits.
Our team can review your previous training and help determine which requirements remain.
Completing your certification on Phi Phi is a fantastic way to combine professional training with beautiful tropical dive sites.
Explore our Learn to Dive Phi Phi programmes.
Where Will I Complete My PADI Scuba Diver or Open Water Training?
At Blue View Divers, we combine practical skills training with beautiful open-water dives around the Phi Phi Islands.
Depending on weather, sea conditions and training requirements, students may explore dive sites around Phi Phi Leh and the Bida Islands.
These areas offer colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles and occasional encounters with blacktip reef sharks.
Most local dive sites are just 15–30 minutes from Phi Phi, allowing you to enjoy more time underwater and less time travelling.
We maintain small teaching groups, with generally no more than 4 students per instructor, to provide personalised attention throughout your course.
Meet our experienced PADI dive team and discover why Phi Phi is such a wonderful place to learn scuba diving.
Learn to Dive in Phi Phi With Blue View Divers
As Phi Phi’s first PADI 5 Star Eco Centre, Blue View Divers specialises in small-group scuba training, personalised instruction and responsible diving practices.
Whether you choose PADI Scuba Diver, complete your Open Water certification or return to upgrade in the future, we’ll help you plan a suitable training schedule.
Start with Scuba Diver, continue to Open Water and explore the underwater world at your own pace!
Discover our beginner scuba diving courses in Phi Phi or book your PADI Open Water Course today.
PADI Scuba Diver vs PADI Open Water – What’s the Difference?
Course Requirements | PADI Scuba Diver | PADI Open Water |
|---|---|---|
Course duration | 1–2 days | 2–3 days |
PADI eLearning | First 3 sections | All 5 sections |
Confined-water sessions | First 3 | All 5 |
Open-water training dives | 2 dives | 4 dives |
Maximum depth | 12 metres | 18 metres |
Dive independently with a buddy | No | Yes |
Professional supervision required | Yes | No |
International certification | Yes | Yes |
Can upgrade later | Yes | Already fully certified |
Are there any Discounts?
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Learn Scuba Diving?
You don’t need to be a strong swimmer to try Discover Scuba Diving. However, you should feel comfortable in the water and be able to follow your instructor’s directions.
For PADI Open Water certification, you must demonstrate basic swimming and water-survival skills. These include swimming 200 metres without aids, or 300 metres with a mask, snorkel and fins, plus floating or treading water for 10 minutes.
Our instructors provide patient, personalised training to help beginners build confidence.
Read more about PADI Open Water requirements.
Do I need to be able to swim to learn how to dive?
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Learn Scuba Diving?
You don’t need to be a strong swimmer to try Discover Scuba Diving. However, you should feel comfortable in the water and be able to follow your instructor’s directions.
For PADI Open Water certification, you must demonstrate basic swimming and water-survival skills. These include swimming 200 metres without aids, or 300 metres with a mask, snorkel and fins, plus floating or treading water for 10 minutes.
For the Scuba Diver Certification you need to be able to float or tread for 10 mins in deep water – so if swimming is a challenge then this is a good first step.
Our instructors provide patient, personalised training to help beginners build confidence.
Read more about PADI Open Water requirements.
What's your Cancellation Policy?
Click here to view our full Cancellation Policies.
A non refundable deposit secures your space and you will receive your e-learning materials.
Full payment is required 1 day before and is non-refundable at that point. Rebooking fees may apply and no refunds during peak times.
Because we purchase elearning materials direct from PADI and assign them to your personal email, we are unable to refund your deposit. They can however be used in any PADI Dive Centre worldwide in the future
Learn to dive in Phi Phi or Koh Tao?
Learn to Dive in Phi Phi – Discover the Best of Thailand’s Underwater World
Dreaming of learning to scuba dive in Thailand? Koh Phi Phi is a spectacular destination to earn your PADI certification, with colourful coral reefs, tropical marine life and beautiful dive sites just minutes from the island.
At Blue View Divers, we believe learning to dive should be relaxed, personal and unforgettable. Our experienced PADI instructors focus on small groups, quality training and responsible diving practices.
Whether you’re trying scuba diving for the first time or completing your PADI Open Water Course, Phi Phi offers an incredible underwater classroom.
Learn to Dive in Phi Phi With Small Groups
Personalised PADI Training and Experienced Instructors
Small groups make a big difference when you’re learning to scuba dive.
At Blue View Divers, we maintain a maximum of 2 beginners per instructor for Discover Scuba Diving and generally 4 students per instructor for PADI courses.
This allows our instructors to adapt training to your individual pace, answer questions and give you plenty of time to practise essential skills.
Meet our experienced PADI dive team and discover our personalised approach to scuba training.
Build Confidence and Enjoy Every Dive
Learning to dive is about more than completing skills and passing assessments. It’s about feeling comfortable, confident and safe underwater.
Our instructors take the time to help you understand your equipment, improve buoyancy control and develop good diving habits.
With patient guidance and small teaching groups, you can focus on enjoying your first underwater adventures.
Learn to Dive Phi Phi – Incredible Marine Life and Dive Sites
Explore Colourful Coral Reefs and Tropical Marine Life
Imagine learning to scuba dive alongside sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks, clownfish and huge schools of tropical fish!
Phi Phi’s underwater world offers an incredible variety of marine life, from colourful reef fish and nudibranchs to beautiful coral gardens and dramatic limestone formations.
Popular local dive sites include Bida Nok, Bida Nai, Palong and Viking, although training locations depend on conditions and course requirements.
Every dive offers another opportunity to discover something amazing.
More Diving, Less Travelling
One of the biggest advantages of learning to dive in Phi Phi is how close the dive sites are.
Most local dive sites are just 15–30 minutes from the island, so you can spend less time travelling and more time enjoying the underwater world.
Our regular two-dive trips take approximately 4.5–5 hours, leaving plenty of time to relax, explore Phi Phi or enjoy the beach.
We offer morning and afternoon diving schedules, making it easier to plan your training around your holiday.
Learn to Dive With a PADI Eco Dive Centre
Responsible Scuba Diving and Marine Conservation
Learning to dive is also an opportunity to discover how we can protect the ocean.
Blue View Divers is Phi Phi’s first PADI 5 Star Eco Centre, with a strong commitment to marine conservation, diver education and responsible tourism.
From your first training dives, our instructors introduce good buoyancy techniques, respectful marine life interactions and environmentally responsible diving habits.
We encourage every student to become a diver who protects the underwater world they love.
Explore our marine conservation projects and discover how you can dive with purpose in Phi Phi.
Quality Equipment and Personal Service
We believe good scuba training starts with reliable equipment and instructors who genuinely care about your progress.
As an Aqualung Partner Centre, Blue View Divers provides well-maintained diving equipment, professional instruction and personalised support throughout your course.
Our friendly team can also help you plan your eLearning, training schedule and diving activities before you arrive.
Experience Phi Phi Island Above and Below the Water
Combine Your PADI Course With an Island Holiday
Phi Phi offers much more than incredible scuba diving.
Between training sessions, you can explore beautiful beaches, enjoy spectacular viewpoints, discover local restaurants or simply relax beside the Andaman Sea.
With most dive sites close to shore, you won’t need to spend your entire holiday travelling to and from dive locations.
We recommend staying on Phi Phi throughout your course to enjoy a relaxed training schedule and make the most of your island experience.
Join a Friendly, International Diving Community
Learning to dive is an exciting experience, especially when you share it with people who love the ocean.
At Blue View Divers, our international team welcomes beginners from around the world. We create a friendly, supportive atmosphere where you can ask questions, build confidence and enjoy every step of your training.
Many of our students return to continue their diving education, explore new dive sites and develop their underwater skills.
Start Your PADI Diving Adventure in Phi Phi
Whether you have half a day to try scuba diving or several days to become certified, Blue View Divers can help you choose the right programme.
From Discover Scuba Diving to the internationally recognised PADI Open Water Course, we offer small-group training, experienced instructors and unforgettable underwater experiences.
Learn to dive in Phi Phi, discover an incredible underwater world and begin a lifetime of ocean adventures!
Can I Arrive and Dive the Same Day?
Can I Arrive on Phi Phi and Go Scuba Diving the Same Day?
Yes! You can arrive on Phi Phi and go scuba diving the same day, provided you book in advance, arrive early enough and stay in a convenient location.
At Blue View Divers, we offer afternoon Discover Scuba Diving experiences for beginners who want to explore Phi Phi’s underwater world on their arrival day.
However, ferry schedules, hotel location and registration requirements are important. We recommend planning your journey carefully to avoid rushing.
How to Arrive and Dive in Phi Phi on the Same Day
To join our afternoon diving trip, we recommend the following:
Book accommodation in Tonsai Village. Staying close to the pier makes it easier to drop off your luggage and reach our meeting point. Remote resorts may require additional longtail boat transfers.
Take an early ferry or speedboat. Choose a transfer from Phuket or Krabi that arrives on Phi Phi well before midday. Check the actual arrival time when booking, as schedules vary.
Book your diving experience in advance. Complete your registration, medical questionnaire, payment and equipment sizing by 7 PM the evening before.
Contact us when you arrive. Check in with our team via WhatsApp no later than 12 PM so we can confirm your arrival and final arrangements.
Meet us for your afternoon dive. Our afternoon diving schedule begins at approximately 12:30 PM, with two dives and a return around 5:30 PM.
Important: Allow extra time for ferry delays, disembarking, collecting luggage and reaching your accommodation. The pier can be particularly busy during high season.
Should I Take a Ferry or Speedboat to Phi Phi?
Both ferries and speedboats connect Phi Phi with Phuket and Krabi.
For same-day diving, we recommend choosing an early transfer with plenty of time before your afternoon departure.
A speedboat may offer a more convenient arrival schedule, but actual journey times depend on the operator, route and weather conditions.
Avoid booking a transfer that arrives too close to your diving meeting time. Scuba diving should be relaxing, not a race against the clock!
Our team can also help arrange your transfer to Phi Phi when booking your diving experience.
Can I Start My PADI Open Water Course on Arrival Day?
Starting a PADI Open Water Course or PADI Scuba Diver Course on your arrival day may be possible with advance arrangements.
However, certification courses require theory, confined-water training and additional practical skills before completing open-water training dives.
Your schedule depends on several factors, including:
Completion of your PADI eLearning and theory assessments.
Ferry arrival time and hotel location.
Registration, medical clearance and equipment fitting.
Instructor availability and training requirements.
Your individual progress and confidence in the water.
For the smoothest experience, we recommend arriving on Phi Phi one day before your PADI certification course begins.
This gives you time to meet your
Blue View Divers Founded in 2006 with an ethos of conservation, community and relaxed diving in small-groups. A boutique-style dive centre with a personal touch and the BEST location to hang out! Dive with us if you like small groups, flexible schedules & excellent customer service. We want you to feel welcome, not just a number. Our Eco-Minded Team of PADI Pros are trained under PADI Staff Instructors Caroline & Kris who have 20+ years experience on Phi Phi.
Contact Info
- 107 Moo 7, Phi Phi Island Ao Nang, Amphur Muang, Krabi, 81000
- +66 (0) 925 12 5584
© 2012 Blue View Divers. All Rights Reserved.
