If you’re thinking about elevating your scuba skills while exploring Thailand’s beautiful waters, the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course on Koh Chang is worth considering. From what we’ve seen, this program combines expert instruction, carefully curated dives, and a friendly, organized atmosphere, making it ideal for those ready to push their boundaries underwater.
What we love most about this course is the professional guidance that ensures safety and learning go hand-in-hand, the diverse selection of specialty dives offering tailored experiences, and the positive reviews from past participants praising everything from the instructors’ friendliness to the top-quality equipment.
A potential consideration is the cost of $550.30 per person, which is quite reasonable but still an investment. For travelers looking to upgrade their diving skills in a safe, supportive environment, this tour offers excellent value.
This experience suits adventure-seekers, certified divers wanting to improve their skills, or anyone eager to enjoy Koh Chang’s vibrant marine life with expert support. Whether you’re on your first trip beyond beginner level or just want to experience diving at a deeper level, this course hits the mark.
Key Points
- Expert instruction with attentive, professional guides ensuring safety and confidence.
- Flexible specialty dives tailored to your interests, from wrecks to night dives.
- Comprehensive package including meals, refreshments, and hotel pick-up.
- Small group sizes (maximum of 3 travelers), offering personalized attention.
- Valuable skills that boost confidence and open new diving possibilities.
- Stunning scenery and marine life that make each dive memorable.
A Complete Look at the Koh Chang PADI Advanced Course
Looking for more options in Ko Chang? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am with hotel pickups on the West coast of Koh Chang, setting the tone for a well-organized day. The journey to the dive sites is smooth and comfortable, thanks to the professional guides and organized transport. Once on the boat, the atmosphere is relaxed yet purposeful, with beverages, snacks, and coffee or tea to keep everyone refreshed.
The core of the course involves two mandatory dives: the Deep Dive and Navigation Dive, which are designed to sharpen fundamental skills that every serious diver should master. The deep dive allows you to explore farther down, typically up to 30 meters, while improving your buoyancy control and comfort at greater depths.
For the other three specialty dives, there’s a level of flexibility. You can choose between options like wreck exploration, digital photography, naturalist dives, night dives, and more. Many reviews highlight how instructors like Marcus Gallo and Chang tailor these experiences based on individual interests, making each day unique. Reviewers mention that trusting the instructor’s advice on dive choices makes a huge difference—some appreciated the chance to do a wreck dive or night experience, which adds excitement and variety.
The Quality of Instruction and Support
Multiple reviewers praised guides like Marcus Gallo, Chang, Charles, Quentin, and Julia for their professionalism, patience, and ability to make learning fun. One reviewer said, “Marcus made the 3 dives such a fun and exciting experience, always very motivating and professional,” echoing the overall sentiment that these guides go above and beyond.
The small group sizes (max. 3 travelers) mean personalized attention, especially important if you’re new to certain skills or simply want more confidence underwater. Several reviews mentioned feeling safe and well-supported, with instructors carefully guiding each step, whether it’s during navigation or buoyancy drills.
The Food, Comfort, and Extras
The buffet lunch, light refreshments, snacks, and beverages are all included, and the quality is often praised. Reviewers note that the food is “great,” adding to the overall value of the package. The boat itself is described as well-maintained and organized, with clean facilities and a comfortable vibe.
The Experience of the Dives
From the reviews, the diving environment on Koh Chang is clearly impressive. Many divers mention stunning marine life, clear waters, and interesting wrecks. Hannah’s underwater photography session was highlighted as “super beautiful,” giving divers lasting memories. The scenery and marine diversity are a big part of why people choose Koh Chang for advanced diving.
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Practical Details: Price, Duration, and Booking
At $550.30 per person, this course offers good value considering the inclusion of five dives, meals, refreshments, and hotel transfers. The two-day duration makes it manageable for most travelers, fitting comfortably into a longer Thailand trip without feeling rushed.
Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received within 48 hours. The tour is best suited for most travelers, although those with pre-existing medical conditions like asthma or heart problems should consult their doctor beforehand. Transfers are only available on the West coast of Koh Chang, so travelers staying elsewhere will need to arrange additional transport.
The True Value for Travelers
What sets this program apart is its combination of safety, expert guides, and flexibility. Whether you’re aiming to deepen your skill set or just want to enjoy some fantastic underwater sights, the course is designed to cater to your needs. The small group size also means you get tailored advice and a more intimate experience.
Who Should Consider This Course?
- Beginner-certified divers seeking to build confidence at deeper depths.
- Experienced divers wanting to perfect navigation or buoyancy skills.
- Travelers who appreciate professionalism and safety in their diving experiences.
- Anyone interested in specialty dives, like wrecks or night diving, to expand their underwater adventures.
- Those staying on Koh Chang’s West coast who want a convenient, well-organized experience.
Final Thoughts
The Koh Chang PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course offers a solid combination of safety, skill-building, and stunning underwater scenery. The professional guides, personalized attention, and flexibility in dive choices make it an excellent investment for anyone eager to take their diving to the next level. The included meals and transfers add convenience and value, ensuring you focus on enjoying every moment below the surface.
While the price might seem like a splurge for some, the quality of instruction, small group sizes, and memorable dives make this experience well worth it. Whether you’re here for only a few days or planning a longer diving holiday, this course will leave you better equipped—and more confident—to explore Thailand’s vibrant waters.
FAQ
How many dives are included in the course?
The course includes five dives: two core dives (deep and navigation) and three specialty dives of your choice, like wreck or night dives.
What is the best time to join the course?
The tour operates year-round, but always check for weather conditions and water clarity, which are generally good in Koh Chang.
Are meals included?
Yes, the package includes a buffet lunch, snacks, light refreshments, and coffee or tea, making the day more comfortable and enjoyable.
Can I choose my specialty dives?
Yes, once you start the course, you can discuss with your instructor which specialties interest you most, such as wrecks, night dives, or digital photography.
What should I bring?
Bring your certification card, personal identification, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. Equipment like tanks and weights are provided.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for accommodations on the West coast of Koh Chang.
Is prior experience required?
You must be a certified diver at least at the Open Water level; pre-existing medical conditions should be discussed with your doctor.
What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to a maximum of three travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
To sum it up, the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course on Koh Chang is a fantastic way to elevate your underwater skills while enjoying some of Thailand’s best dive sites. With highly praised guides, flexible dive options, and excellent value, it’s a smart choice for anyone ready to add depth and confidence to their diving journey.