From Phi Phi: PADI Open Water Course *eLearning (2+ days)

If you’re dreaming of turning your underwater daydreams into reality, this PADI Open Water Course on Ko Phi Phi might just be the perfect fit. With a solid five-star rating from dozens of happy travelers, it’s clear that Blue View Divers has carved out a reputation for professionalism, safety, and a genuine love for the ocean. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, this course offers a well-balanced mix of theory, practical training, and breathtaking dives, all set against the stunning backdrop of Phi Phi’s famed coral reefs.

What really sets this course apart is its focus on small class sizes and personalized instruction. From what travelers share, you get plenty of individual attention—something that makes a huge difference when you’re learning to breathe underwater for the first time. You’ll also appreciate how the team emphasizes eco-friendly diving practices, adding an extra layer of value for eco-conscious travelers. The only caveat? The cost, at around $459, might seem steep for some, but considering the quality of training, equipment, and unforgettable marine encounters, it’s worth every penny for those ready to take the plunge.

This experience is especially ideal for those who want a comprehensive, safety-focused introduction to scuba diving, paired with incredible scenery and a supportive instructor team. If your goal is to gain certification while soaking in the beauty of Phi Phi’s waters, this tour checks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Excellent reputation: 5-star rating based on 30 reviews, with consistent praise for guides and organization.
• Immersive learning: Combines eLearning with practical pool and ocean dives, encouraging confidence.
• Small group setting: Offers more personalized attention and better chances for exploring marine life.
• Stunning marine environment: Dive sites are selected for their vibrant coral reefs, turtles, sharks, and marine diversity.
• Eco-conscious approach: The team emphasizes responsible diving practices.
• Great value for the experience: Includes all gear, certification, and a flexible schedule, making it a worthwhile investment.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The course kicks off with official PADI eLearning, which is a game-changer in terms of flexibility. You’ll receive your coursework and videos upon booking, and you can study at your own pace over 8-12 hours before your trip. This allows you to arrive feeling a bit more prepared and less overwhelmed. Many reviewers highlight how helpful it is to do the theory in advance—making the hands-on training feel more like fun than pressure.

The practical component begins with confined water training in a pool located just five minutes outside town at the Viewpoint Resort. Here, you’ll spend two mornings perfecting the basics—mask clearing, regulator retrieval, buoyancy control, and other essential skills—under the watchful eye of experienced instructors like Caroline, Becca, or Renzo, who are praised for their patience and clarity. One reviewer notes that Becca, in particular, is a “great instructor,” who makes the learning process both fun and safe.

Once you’re comfortable with your skills, it’s time for the ocean dives, which are spread over two days. These dives take place in the Marine Park area of Phi Phi Leh and Bida Islands, accessible via a 20-30 minute boat ride. The boat trip itself is part of the adventure, often on a traditional longtail boat, which adds charm and a sense of local flavor. Many reviews mention how the guides aim to avoid crowds, choosing dive sites that give the impression of having the space to truly enjoy marine life without feeling overwhelmed by other groups.

Expect to see vibrant coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and possibly encounters with turtles and sharks—reports describe these as common sights. The lunch is described as “zero waste,” featuring fresh pineapple and local cuisine, which adds to the overall experience. The dives typically last around 5 hours each day, including boat rides, surface intervals, and logbook time—giving you plenty of underwater exploration.

The Training and Underwater Experience

The focus on safety and patience is evident from reviews, especially from those who were initially nervous. One traveler mentioned how their instructor, Renzo, helped turn a fear of water into confidence, culminating in the achievement of an Advanced Open Water Diver certification. This highlights how the team’s nurturing approach isn’t just about certification—it’s about fostering a genuine love for the ocean.

In the water, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing fascinating facts about marine life. They seek to respect delicate ecosystems, which many divers appreciate, especially since sites are carefully chosen to minimize environmental impact.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll find the group environment intimate enough to ensure personalized attention but lively enough to keep the energy high. Many reviewers mention how this small-group setup contributed to a more relaxed, enjoyable learning environment—whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned snorkeler looking to expand into scuba.

The Cost and Overall Value

Priced at $459.64, this course is an investment, but it includes all equipment, course materials, fees, and certification costs. For many travelers, the quality of instruction, the pristine dive sites, and the chance to see marine creatures like turtles and sharks make this a worthy expenditure. One reviewer even called it “great value” for such an immersive experience.

The only extra cost is the National Park fee of 800 THB, payable on-site, which is standard for protected marine areas in Thailand. The flexibility to book in advance, with an average booking window of 24 days, means you can plan ahead without last-minute stress.

Why This Tour Works

This course suits travelers who want a comprehensive, safe, and environmentally responsible introduction to scuba diving. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small groups, personalized instruction, and stunning marine environments. Families, solo travelers, and even teenagers have all been praised for their experiences here, thanks to the instructors’ patience and professionalism.

If your goal is to gain certification while exploring Phi Phi’s vibrant underwater world, this course delivers on all fronts. The reviews confirm that many leave feeling confident, inspired, and with a newfound love for diving.

Who Will Love It?

• Beginners seeking a well-organized, safety-first course
• Eco-minded travelers wanting to respect marine ecosystems
• Families and kids eager to learn in a supportive environment
• Solo travelers hoping for small group experiences with expert guides
• Anyone wanting to combine scenic boat rides, delicious local food, and vibrant marine life

Final Thoughts

This PADI Open Water Course with Blue View Divers is more than just certification; it’s a chance to connect with nature in a meaningful, responsible way. From the warm, patient instructors like Caroline and Renzo to the stunning coral reefs teeming with life, every element is carefully designed to make your first steps underwater memorable.

While the price might be on the higher side, the quality of instruction, the eco-conscious approach, and the chance to see marine creatures like turtles and sharks up close make it a fantastic value. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, small-group experience in one of Thailand’s most beautiful settings.

So, if you’re ready to turn your ocean fantasies into reality and learn to breathe underwater safely and confidently, this course is a solid choice—with plenty of reviews to back up its reputation.

FAQs

Is this course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, this course is designed for beginners, with small class sizes and experienced instructors ensuring you get personalized attention. You’ll start with confined water training before moving into open water.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the PADI eLearning course, all diving equipment, certification fees, dive computer rental, and a basic insurance policy. All taxes are included as well.

Are the dive sites worth the trip?
Absolutely. Reviewers love the sites chosen for their stunning marine life, vibrant corals, and the chance to see turtles and sharks. The guides aim to avoid crowds, enhancing your experience.

How flexible is the schedule?
The schedule offers flexibility, with options to start on the same day you arrive or plan over multiple days. The confined water training is usually done over two mornings, and ocean dives are spread out over two days.

Do I need to worry about the weather?
The experience depends on good weather. If poor weather causes cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What about the group size?
Maximum of 10 travelers, which promotes intimacy and personalized guidance.

Is there any extra fee I should be aware of?
Yes, the National Park fee of 800 THB is payable on-site and is a standard fee for marine parks in Thailand.

Can I do this course if I have health concerns like asthma?
This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with asthma. Be sure to review your medical statement before booking to meet scuba diving requirements.

To sum it up, this PADI Open Water Course on Phi Phi combines expert instruction, stunning underwater scenery, and a focus on eco-friendly diving. It’s ideally suited for those eager to learn in a relaxed, supportive environment, and will leave you with unforgettable memories—and maybe even a new hobby.