At Crystal Dive Koh Tao, we’re proud to have certified over 100,000 divers during our 26 years of operation, providing the highest quality dive training and exceptional underwater experiences. Over the years, we’ve seen scuba certification systems evolve to meet the needs of divers worldwide. After careful consideration, we made the decision to transition from PADI to Scuba Schools International (SSI). This change allows us to enhance the experience for you – our valued divers – by offering a more adaptable, streamlined system with globally recognised certification. Here’s why Crystal Dive’s switch to SSI benefits both new and experienced divers alike.
Why the Shift from PADI to SSI?
PADI and SSI are both highly respected scuba diving certification agencies with global reach. However, as the diving community and teaching methodologies have evolved, SSI has taken a modern, flexible approach to dive education. SSI’s approach allows us to deliver a seamless, personalized learning experience that can be better adapted to each diver’s needs and schedule.
SSI’s philosophy is built on creating divers who are confident and independent in the water, and their emphasis on mastery-based learning aligns with our values here at Crystal Dive. The SSI system is not only efficient and effective, but also emphasizes safety, fun, and a real love for diving & the ocean!
Better Training, Better Courses, From Entry-Level to Pro
With the move to SSI, Crystal Dive is now able to provide even more comprehensive and high-quality courses than ever before! From entry-level divers to professional instructors, here’s how we’ve improved the overall dive experience for our students:
- Entry-Level Courses Our Open Water Diver course is now even more flexible, tailored to suit your learning style. SSI offers a modular approach to learning, which allows students to progress at their own pace. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who may need extra time with certain skills or advanced divers focusing on technical training.
- Advanced and Specialty Courses Whether you want to explore deeper waters, take on more technical dives, or learn new skills, we can now offer an wider variety of specialty courses, such as Deep Diving, Night Diving, and Enriched Air (Nitrox) along with many exciting Ecology Specialties. Our approach to specialty training allows for deeper immersion in each discipline – pun intended, with comprehensive theory and in-water practice. We are proud to offer you the very best, no matter your dive interest.
- Professional Training Crystal Dive is renowned for being one of the top dive schools in Koh Tao to offer professional dive training. Our SSI Divemaster and Instructor Training Courses (ITC) offer a world-class pathway to becoming a dive professional. SSI’s professional courses emphasize leadership, teaching skills, and dive shop operations, ensuring that our students leave prepared to succeed in the dive industry.
- A Personal Touch One of the most significant benefits of Crystal Dive is the family-like atmosphere we provide. At Crystal Dive, you’re not just another student, you’re part of the Crystal Dive family. Our ability to offer an even more personalized and flexible approach to training, means that we can take the time to understand your goals, skill level, and interests, ensuring you get the most out of your training, no matter where you are on your diving journey.
Why Crystal Dive is the Best Choice for Your Diving Education
With our shift to SSI, Crystal Dive has further solidified its position as one of Koh Tao’s leading dive centres. Regardless of training agency – here’s why divers choose Crystal Dive over other schools on the island:
- Experienced and Passionate Instructors Our team of experienced multilingual instructors are passionate about teaching diving and are dedicated to ensuring that you get the best experience possible. With decades of combined experience, our instructors go above and beyond to share their knowledge, making sure you feel comfortable and confident in every dive you take.
- Focus on Quality and Safety: Crystal Dive has always maintained high standards of safety, and our partnership with SSI further reinforces this commitment. Our focus on mastery learning means every diver leaves Crystal Dive feeling confident, safe, and fully equipped for real-world diving situations.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities Crystal Dive offers exceptional facilities designed to make your scuba diving journey seamless and enjoyable. Our fleet of well-equipped dive boats ensures safe and comfortable trips to the best dive sites, while our two purpose-built dive pools provide the perfect environment for skill development. We use top-quality, well-maintained dive equipment and offer dedicated, air-conditioned classrooms that create an ideal space for learning. After training, you can unwind at our poolside bar or relax in our convenient on-site accommodation, making your time with us a truly all-inclusive experience.
- A Commitment to Sustainability At Crystal Dive, we believe in diving responsibly. Our partnership with The Coral Tribe, along with our support of coral restoration efforts, and our commitment to educating divers about ocean conservation ensures that we are doing our part to protect the incredible marine life we interact with every day.
- Incredible Location Koh Tao is one of the world’s best places to dive, with crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes. As a dive school on this incredible island, Crystal Dive is perfectly positioned right on the beach and close to all amenities.
In conclusion
The shift from PADI to SSI represents an exciting new chapter for Crystal Dive Koh Tao, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to bring you the most personalized, high-quality, and sustainable diving training and experiences. Whether you’re just starting your dive journey or looking to take your skills to a professional level, Crystal Dive is here to provide you with the support you need to succeed. Come dive with us and discover why Crystal Dive is the best place to learn to dive on Koh Tao.
© Crystal Dive Koh Tao
