Is scuba diving one of the million things on your bucket list you’ve planned to tick off ‘one day’? Well, here at UrbanJourney we believe in going out there and checking these lists off! So here’s a quick guide on how to go about getting yourself a dive license and getting started on the dive circuit of Southeast Asia.
Goal:Get qualified! You’ll need to get one of two types of dive certification – the Scuba Schools International (SSI) or Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).
Where?While dive shops and schools are available around Singapore and the rest of Southeast Asia in plenty, it’s best to start small and then move on to more reputed dive-sites, so you’re better trained to absorb the experience there. Therefore, we recommend getting your license nearby – in Malaysia or even Thailand – for a decent first experience while learning the basics.
Option 1: Tioman Island, Malaysia
You’ll need about 4 full days to make a trip to Malaysia and get your license after completing all your dives. Tioman is a popular weekend destination for divers in Malaysia and Singapore with spectacular beaches and a relaxing and fun vibe. For good diving, it’s best to go between March and October! If you’ve got a little extra time, we also recommend spending a day or two extra exploring the island. While it is a little hard to get to, including a bus journey from Singapore and then a ferry, the beautiful beaches, excellent dive sites and fun backpacker atmosphere is definitely worth your while.
Once you get here, it’s just a matter of looking for a dive agency and signing up for the course. Be prepared to study and write a test or two before you can actually dive! We recommendB&J Diving Centerwith offices at both Air Batang as well as Salang Village. With friendly staff and trained professional instructors from around the world, your dive experience is well taken care of. They even help arrange accommodation based on your budget.
For a hassle-free way to get here, there are a number of dive operators in Singapore that arrange trips for groups to Tioman Island. While this is slightly more expensive, it’s saves time and a lot of planning is taken care of. If you’re not keen on the backpacking atmosphere, you can ask the agency to book you into one of the more private resorts on the island for the night.
Option 2: Koh Tao, Thailand
If you have a little more time, this small island in the gulf of Thailand is just what you need. Koh Tao is known as the scuba diving capital of Southeast Asia – a paradise for experienced divers and beginners alike. As popular as this destination is, it retains its’ Thai village like charm from when it used to be deserted paradise island. The cheap prices and food and drink options on the island are a treat to anyone looking for a great and affordable holiday. With respect to diving, you can look to finish your course in about 3 days for a very reasonable price and be reassured that you’re in good hands as Koh Tao has no shortage of experienced dive professionals. If you’re looking for a party or two after a couple of amazing dives during the day – Koh Tao’s party-and-pub scene will not disappoint. As much as Thailand is known for it’s backpacker and party scene, there are also a bunch of quieter places to eat, drink and relax, if that’s what you prefer. Our advice: You don’t want to dive with a hangover, so watch the drinking if you’ve got dives schedules the next day! Also, make sure to book well in advance if you’re aiming to go during peak season – which is around July and August.
Option 3: Deep Blue Scuba, Singapore
Alternatively, you can pick up scuba diving right here in Singapore. Located at 74 South Bridge Road, this easily accessible school is long established and has been around since 1996. In that time period, it has made a name for itself as one of the most reliable places that you can learn to scuba dive at. So if you don’t want the hassle of leaving the country just to pick up the rudimentary skills, this is the place for you.
74 South Bridge Road
#03-01
Singapore 058704
Tel: +65 6557
Visit Deep Blue Scuba’s website
Find Deep Blue Scuba on Facebook
Other options:
Perhentian Islands, Malaysia; Bunaken Island, Indonesia
Getting a diving license is not hard. It’s merely a matter of packing a bag, taking your swimsuit along and getting the course done. Very soon you will be certified to dive up to 18m deep and will have discovered a whole new world. Can’t wait to see ‘Nemo’ in person? Well, don’t wait! You won’t regret it!
