If you’ve ever dreamed of breathing underwater and exploring the vibrant world beneath the waves, this Open Water Course in Nusa Lembongan might just be your gateway to that adventure. Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this 3-day program promises more than just certification—it offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful marine life around Bali, with the chance to encounter manta rays and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
What we love about this experience is how professionally it’s run, the quality of the facilities, and the authentic, close-up encounters with marine life. You’ll appreciate the well-organized training, the friendly and highly-rated instructors like Sara, Kaka, and Hugo, and the stunning backdrop of Nusa Lembongan’s clear waters.
One thing to keep in mind: this course is physically moderate, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Also, some reviews mention the importance of good weather—since diving is weather-dependent, a stormy forecast might mean rescheduling or postponing your underwater debut.
This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, first-timers, or anyone wanting to add a globally recognized PADI or SSI certification to their travel adventures. If you’re eager to explore Bali’s underwater treasures and have a week to spare, this course checks many boxes.
Key Points
- Certification & Certification Level: Become an SSI-certified open water diver, capable of exploring depths up to 60 feet (18 meters).
- Duration & Structure: It’s a 3-day course, with theory, shallow water practice, and at least four ocean dives.
- Facilities & Equipment: Dive center offers Wi-Fi, lockers, bathrooms, a restaurant, and all necessary scuba gear.
- Marine Encounters: Notable for the chance to see manta rays and diverse sea life during ocean dives.
- Group & Booking: Only your group participates in the activity, with flexible scheduling and availability from early morning to evening.
- Reviews & Reputation: Boasts a perfect 5-star rating from over 750 reviews, highlighting professionalism, safety, and fun.
The Authentic Underwater Education Experience
This isn’t just a quick certification; it’s a comprehensive introduction to safe diving practices. The program covers essential theory, with engaging, easy-to-understand lessons, and practical exercises. The reviews highlight how instructors like Sara, Kaka, and Hugo make safety their priority, ensuring everyone feels confident before heading into the open ocean. The training pools and shallow waters are used effectively to prepare students, with at least five practice sessions to build comfort.
Looking for more options in Nusa Lembongan? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Ocean Dives & Marine Encounters
The real magic happens during the ocean dives, where you get to put your skills into practice. Reviewers mention visiting various sites and encountering an impressive variety of marine life—including turtles, clownfish, angel fish, butterfly fish, and, most notably, manta rays. One reviewer pointed out the chance to see more than six manta rays in a single day, which is a rare and unforgettable highlight.
The marine environment around Nusa Lembongan is ideal for new divers: calm, clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant sea creatures. This makes it a top choice for those doing their first open water experience.
Well-Equipped & Comfortable Dive Center
The facilities at Dive Concepts Bali are noted for their cleanliness and convenience. With Wi-Fi, lockers, showers, and a restaurant, you’re comfortably supported throughout your stay. The equipment used by the center is reported to be of very high quality, and all gear is included in the package, removing the hassle of rentals or unforeseen expenses.
Expert & Friendly Instructors
Across numerous reviews, instructors like Sara, Kaka, Hugo, and Baptiste emerge as standouts. They’re praised for their patience, professionalism, and ability to make students feel safe and confident. Many reviewers appreciated how instructors tailored their teaching to individual needs, especially when some students encountered challenges like sinus problems or initial nerves.
Practicalities & Cost-Effectiveness
At approximately $440.36 per person, this course represents excellent value considering it includes all gear, professional instruction, multiple ocean dives, and access to excellent facilities. The certification gained is internationally recognized, opening doors to diving almost anywhere in the world.
Included:
- Certified SSI instructor
- Use of all scuba gear (mask, fins, tank, wetsuit, etc.)
- Dive center amenities like Wi-Fi, lockers, bathrooms, and a restaurant
- At least four ocean dives
- Theoretical lessons and shallow water training
Not Included:
- Digital photos or videos (available for purchase)
- Accommodation (options include dormitory and bungalow options at the dive center)
The course is flexible in scheduling, with activities running from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. You’ll meet at Dive Concepts Lembongan for briefing and training, with the activity concluding back at the same spot.
Imagine floating weightlessly above a reef teeming with colorful fish and corals, the ocean’s tranquility broken only by your own breathing through a regulator. Reviewers rave about the spectacular underwater scenery, with many describing the reef as “incredible” and marine life as “abundant.”
One reviewer shared that their first dive was at Manta Point, where they encountered seven manta rays—an experience that many dream of but few actually get to witness. Others mention the joy of seeing not just manta rays but also turtles and a variety of tropical fish, making each dive a new adventure.
The water conditions, based on reviews, seem to be quite favorable most days, with some noting that even on days with less visibility, the experience remains exciting due to the marine life and professional guidance.
The course is structured into three main parts: theory, shallow water exercises, and ocean dives. The theory sessions include understanding the basics of diving safety, equipment, and underwater communication. These are delivered by knowledgeable instructors like Sara, who is praised for her clarity and patience.
Shallow water practice takes place in calm, accessible waters—either on the beach or in a swimming pool—where beginners learn fundamental skills such as mask clearing, regulator recovery, and buoyancy control. Reviewers mention that even those initially nervous felt safe thanks to instructors’ patience and thorough explanations.
The open ocean dives then test your skills while allowing you to explore the reef’s beauty. During these dives, you’ll practice navigation, buoyancy, and safety procedures under supervision.
Once completed, you’ll receive an internationally recognized SSI Open Water Diver certification, unlocking a whole new world of underwater exploration.
This course offers an unbeatable combination of professional instruction, stunning underwater scenery, and a supportive environment for beginners. It’s perfect for those new to diving who want a safe, memorable introduction, especially if manta rays and vibrant coral reefs appeal to you. It also suits travelers who appreciate well-organized activities and excellent facilities.
If you’re short on time but want a meaningful certification, this 3-day program packs enough training and adventure to satisfy. However, keep in mind that weather plays a role in ocean dives, so flexibility in scheduling might be necessary.
Overall, if you’re looking to tick a bucket list item, learn a valuable skill, or simply enjoy beautiful marine environments in a relaxed setting, this course in Nusa Lembongan is a smart choice.
Is this course suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for first-time divers. The course includes thorough training, shallow water practice, and a focus on safety, making it ideal for newcomers.
What is the minimum age requirement?
The minimum age for participating is 10 years old, which makes it accessible for older children and teens.
Are all the scuba gear and equipment provided?
Yes, the package includes use of all necessary scuba gear, from masks to fins and tanks.
Can I see manta rays during the dives?
Many reviewers have had the chance to see manta rays at certain sites like Manta Point. While marine life sightings can’t be guaranteed, the chances are high given the location.
How long does the training take each day?
Training sessions typically run from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with theory, shallow water exercises, and ocean dives scheduled across the three days.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Since diving depends on weather conditions, poor weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation with a full refund or alternative date offered.
Is this activity suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, reviewers note that the course is designed for individuals with moderate fitness levels, and instructors are attentive to students’ needs.
What is the cost of the course?
The price is approximately $440.36 per person, which includes instruction, gear, and access to facilities. It offers great value considering the comprehensive training and experience.
What is the main highlight of this course?
Most reviewers mention the opportunity to see manta rays and colorful marine life as the ultimate highlight, along with gaining a globally recognized certification.
This Open Water Course in Nusa Lembongan offers a superb combination of professional instruction, comfortable facilities, and unforgettable underwater sights. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to formalize your diving skills, you’ll find this program both accessible and rewarding. The chance to see manta rays and explore vibrant reefs makes it a standout experience in Bali’s surroundings.
The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, with many mentioning how safe and well-organized the course was, thanks to instructors like Sara, Kaka, and Hugo. The locations chosen for dives are praised for their beauty and marine diversity, making every moment below the surface a new adventure.
If your goal is to learn a life-changing skill, experience incredible marine encounters, and do so in a relaxed, professional environment, then this course in Nusa Lembongan is a top pick. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, book ahead, and prepare for a journey that could very well spark a lifelong passion for the ocean.
Note: This course is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a sense of adventure. It’s perfect for adding a globally recognized certification to your travel memories and opening up a new world of exploration.
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