Bali Hai – PADI Advance Open Water Course in Menjangan

If you’ve ever dreamed of elevating your scuba skills in a setting that balances natural beauty with expert guidance, the Bali Hai – PADI Advanced Open Water Course in Menjangan might just be your perfect match. This two-day adventure promises a combination of education, exploration, and breathtaking views—especially at one of Bali’s most renowned diving spots, Menjangan Island.

What sets this experience apart? First, the highly rated instructors ensure you gain confidence in your abilities. Second, the diverse range of specialty dives—from underwater naturalist fish IDs to night dives—offer you a comprehensive and customizable learning experience. Lastly, the stunning location of Menjangan, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, offers an unforgettable backdrop for your underwater milestones.

That said, a potential consideration is the cost—at $502.57 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many feel is justified by the quality of instruction and the spectacular environment. This course suits divers who have already completed their Open Water certification and are eager to expand their skills and confidence in the water, paired with travelers looking for an authentic, immersive aquatic experience.

Key Points

• High-quality instruction from experienced guides in a small group setting (max 4:1 ratio).
• Flexible specialty dives allowing customization based on your interests.
• Stunning location at Menjangan Island, known for clear water and vibrant marine life.
• All-inclusive package that covers equipment, manual, lunch, and boat transfers.
• Ideal for certified divers wanting to deepen their skills, not complete beginners.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours, offering peace of mind.

A Closer Look at the Experience

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Know

For $502.57, you gain access to a well-rounded package that covers full equipment rental, PADI manuals, logbooks, certification, and all boat transfers. The course spans two days, with five dives in total—two mandatory (Deep Dive and Underwater Navigation) and three optional specialty dives. The flexibility to choose from options like Digital Underwater Photography or Night Dive really tailors the experience to your interests.

While the price includes lunch and beverages, note that national park fees and food outside the provided meals are not included, along with air-conditioned vehicle transportation. These extras might add to your overall budget but are typical for such diving excursions.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1 begins at 9:00 am at the Menjangan Dynasty Resort, where you’ll meet your guides and gear up. Expect a briefing on safety and the day’s dives, with a focus on building confidence and familiarity with the underwater environment. The first dives usually involve practical skills for navigation and depth control, often in shallow, calm waters that are perfect for practicing new techniques.

Day 2 continues with the remaining dives, including the optional specialty dives. Review the marine environment of Menjangan, renowned for its crystal-clear visibility and vibrant coral reefs. Reviewers mention feeling well-prepared and comfortable, thanks to the professional guidance and small group sizes, which create an intimate learning environment.

Guides and Instruction

The tour is operated by Bali Hai Cruises, a recognized PADI 5-Star Dive Centre. Reviewers specifically highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly instructors who go out of their way to ensure safety and enjoyment. You might find that the guides are multi-lingual, making communication smooth for international travelers.

The Venue: Menjangan Island

Known for its exceptional underwater scenery, Menjangan offers lush coral gardens and abundant marine life. Reviewers have described the experience as “amazing” and felt “totally comfortable and prepared” by the time they finished the course. The location is perfect for those who appreciate scenic underwater vistas and want to explore Bali’s vibrant marine biodiversity.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the group is kept small enough to foster personalized attention. Reviewers have praised the professionalism of the crew and the attention to detail, making this a comfortable and enriching experience even for those new to advanced diving.

Why This Course Is a Great Investment

While the upfront cost may seem steep, the value lies in the quality of instruction, the variety of dives, and the breathtaking environment. The certification allows you to dive worldwide to depths of 30m/100ft, opening doors for future adventures. Enthusiasts have shared that they felt “totally comfortable” after completing the course, which boosts confidence for all future dives.

What Travelers Like Most

Reviewers have appreciated the professional guides and the stunning scenery. One mentioned that the Menjangan island was “amazing” and felt they received a “pro experience” at the PADI office, highlighting the high standards of training and service. The small group sizes and personalized attention make a significant difference, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the cost relative to some other diving courses or similar experiences in Bali. Also, diving within 48 hours of flying is not recommended, so if you’re arriving or departing Bali soon, timing your courses accordingly is important. The lack of air-conditioned transport might be a minor discomfort for some, but it’s typical for boat transfers in tropical environments.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This course is ideal for certified divers eager to expand their skills in a safe, well-supported environment. It’s perfect for those who want a certification that’s recognized worldwide and who are curious about specialty dives like night or naturalist dives.

Travelers who love beautiful scenery and enjoy learning in small groups will find this offering particularly satisfying. If you’re after a high-quality, immersive, and professional diving experience that balances education with adventure, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The Bali Hai PADI Advanced Open Water Course in Menjangan truly appeals to those looking to deepen their diving experience with expert guidance, in a location famous for its pristine waters and vibrant marine life. While it’s a bit of an investment, the comprehensive nature of the program, combined with the stunning environment, makes it well worth considering.

It’s best suited for certified divers who want to build confidence and expand their underwater skills without sacrificing comfort or safety. The small-group setting and knowledgeable instructors create an environment that’s both educational and enjoyable, helping you get the most out of every second underwater.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, professionally run program that offers not just a certificate but a memorable adventure, this course delivers. Whether you’re new to advanced skills or looking to tick off a bucket list item, the combination of expert guidance and the beauty of Menjangan makes it a worthwhile addition to your Bali itinerary.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver to take this course?
Yes, you must be a certified PADI Open Water Diver or hold an equivalent certification from another recognized agency to participate.

What is included in the price?
The price covers full equipment rental, PADI manuals, logbook, certification card, boat transfers, and lunch and drinks during the course days.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, national park fees and food and drinks outside the provided meals are not included. Also, transportation to the meeting point (Menjangan Dynasty Resort) is not covered.

How many dives will I do?
You’ll complete five dives over two days, including the mandatory Deep Dive and Underwater Navigation, plus three optional specialty dives based on your choices.

Is the group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 15 travelers and a teacher-to-student ratio of 4:1, ensuring personalized guidance and safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

This experience offers a fantastic blend of professional training, stunning scenery, and personalized attention, making it a top choice for certified divers eager to grow their abilities in Bali’s celebrated waters.