SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
An Underwater Experience You Will Never Forget Few underwater encounters stay with divers as vividly as meeting a sea turtle in its natural habitat. The slow, graceful movements, the calm curiosity in their eyes, and the ancient presence they carry make every turtle encounter feel …
You’ve Never Dived Before? For many travelers visiting the Gili Islands, scuba diving feels like something reserved for experienced adventurers. You see boats heading out, divers gearing up, and stories of turtles, reefs, and underwater life—and you might wonder if it’s something you could ever …
As a business owner, big changes never come without nerves. Anyone who has been running a dive center for years knows that stability is fragile and hard-earned. Changing managers who have been part of the shop for years, implementing new operational systems, or adjusting long-standing philosophies always comes with the same quiet question in the back of your mind: What if this affects the heart of the business?
At the beginning of this year, Oceans 5 Gili Air took one of the biggest steps in its 15-year history: a complete crossover to SSI. A new training organization means new rules and regulations, a different digital ecosystem, new ways of registering and certifying students, different learning materials, and a new professional pathway for instructors and divemasters.
The biggest questions were obvious and unavoidable:
Will this change affect the number of divers walking into the shop?
Will it disrupt daily operations?
How will guests respond when they no longer see the logo they expect?
After one full month as an SSI Instructor Training Center, Oceans 5 can finally answer those questions with clarity—and confidence.
The transition didn’t start on the 1st of January. In reality, it began months earlier. During the last months of 2025, the Oceans 5 team worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure that when the switch happened, it would happen all at once—without confusion for guests.
Websites were updated, social media channels redesigned, automated replies rewritten, templates replaced, advertisements around the shop changed, blog pages edited, PR pages revised, and partners informed. Every visible and invisible touchpoint had to reflect the new reality.
A huge part of this work was carried by Chelle, Oceans 5’s operational director and manager. From daily logistics to long-term planning, she ensured that nothing slipped through the cracks. The goal was simple but ambitious: on the 1st of January, everything should work exactly as before—just under a different training system.
And that’s exactly what happened.
When January 1st arrived, Oceans 5 didn’t “ease into” SSI. The change happened in one go. The day before, nothing felt different to guests. The day after, everything behind the scenes had changed.
All six instructors completed their SSI Instructor crossover.
All eight divemasters became SSI Divemasters.
Two staff members stepped up to become SSI Instructor Trainers.
From a structural point of view, the foundation was solid immediately. But structure alone doesn’t keep a dive shop alive. The real test is always the public.
After one month, the results speak clearly. Oceans 5 recorded more certifications than in the same period last year. And that result becomes even more meaningful when you consider the external conditions.
This year, Gili Air has been quieter. Big storms, heavy swells, and cancelled boat traffic between Bali and the Gili Islands reduced visitor numbers across the board. Despite that, Oceans 5 did not see a decline in certifications or fun divers.
Yes, people still ask for PADI—by email and as walk-ins. That didn’t change overnight. What did change is how the team responds. Instead of deflecting or apologizing, instructors and office staff take the time to explain the SSI system one-on-one. Guests feel informed rather than pushed, and that personal explanation makes all the difference.
Interestingly, after announcing only half of the upcoming SSI Instructor Training Course dates, sign-ups came in immediately. One might assume these were old IDC candidates returning for a crossover—but they weren’t. These were new candidates, coming in through web marketing and updated online content.
That result alone confirmed one thing: the market didn’t shrink. It shifted—and Oceans 5 shifted with it.
For instructors, the first adjustment was mental rather than technical. Teaching philosophies at Oceans 5 never changed. Neutral buoyancy, small groups, environmental awareness, and calm, confident teaching remained exactly the same. What changed was the system around the teaching.
After several team meetings, a clear internal structure was defined for how SSI courses are conducted at Oceans 5 Gili Air. Once that structure was in place, the workflow became smoother than before.
The biggest win? Time.
The SSI digital system allows instructors to see student progress on their phone or tablet in real time. Online learning materials are intuitive and flexible, allowing students to complete theory in the evenings or at their own pace. Registration and certification no longer feel like administrative obstacles but logical steps in a clear process.
For managers, the difference is even more noticeable. Student registration, certification, and tracking are handled through QR codes and a structured digital flow that leaves far less room for error. Tasks that used to take time and double-checking now take minutes.
One concern often voiced during big transitions is quality. Did Oceans 5 compromise its standards to make the change easier?
The answer is simple: absolutely not.
Owner Sander remains closely involved in daily operations, overseeing instructors, courses, and standards. Oceans 5 has always operated as a team rather than a collection of individuals, and that hasn’t changed. Instructors support each other, align teaching styles, and maintain a shared philosophy that prioritizes student confidence over speed.
The system changed. The standards didn’t.
The most honest feedback doesn’t come from statistics—it comes from people.
Nat, SSI Open Water student:
“The SSI Open Water Course went smooth. Instructor Esmee explained the course in a patient way. Especially the online materials—easy to use and could be finished whenever I had time in the evenings. I can’t recommend a better dive center.”
Chelle, Dive Shop Manager:
“The SSI system is more time-effective. It’s a modern system developed with the way dive shops actually work in mind. Daily, it saves me time, and I can now use that time for other important things.”
Ary, Dive Instructor:
“The SSI system works very well. For instructors, it gives a bit more flexibility compared to other organizations. At Oceans 5, we created a structure that fits all instructors, which makes us more efficient as a team.”
One of the biggest unknowns was the professional side of the business. Would instructor numbers drop? Would candidates hesitate?
Within just two weeks, candidates signed up for the upcoming Instructor Training Course at Oceans 5 Gili Air. Instead of decline, the numbers suggest stability—or even growth. The fear of losing professional candidates simply didn’t materialize.
After one month as an SSI Instructor Training Center, Oceans 5 Gili Air can confidently say the transition went smoothly. There were no operational crises, no drop in quality, no decline in divers, and no confusion among guests.
The system is easier.
The workflow is faster.
The instructors are happy.
The students are satisfied.
Change will always be uncomfortable at first. But sometimes, after taking a deep breath and stepping forward, you realize the water is calmer on the other side.
Community, Commitment, and Care Every Friday at exactly 17:00, something special happens on the beaches of Gili Air. While the tropical sun starts to sink toward the horizon and most visitors are thinking about sunset drinks or dinner plans, a growing group of people gathers …
Why This Small Archipelago Is a Big Deal for Divers When people think about the Gili Islands, they often picture white sandy beaches, turquoise water, hammocks between palm trees, and spectacular sunsets. But beneath the surface, the real magic begins. With around 15 different dive sites …
Oceans 5 Gili Air is entering an exciting new era in its long and respected history of professional dive education. For the very first time, the renowned dive center is hosting an SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar (ITS)—a landmark event that reflects both the growth of the center and its commitment to developing the highest level of diving professionals. Among the candidates taking part in this prestigious program are Ramon and Warren “Waz”, two experienced educators whose journey now brings them to the threshold of becoming SSI Instructor Trainers.
This historic seminar marks a major step forward for Oceans 5, reinforcing its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s leading dive training facilities and positioning it firmly on the global stage of professional dive education.
For many years, Oceans 5 Gili Air has been known as a place where divers evolve into professionals—where instructors are shaped through experience, mentorship, and a deep respect for teaching excellence. Hosting an SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is the natural next step in that evolution.
This 10-day intensive course brings together seven highly experienced candidates who are ready to transition from instructor-level leadership to the highest educational role within the SSI system: Instructor Trainer. Once certified, these professionals will be qualified to train and certify future SSI Instructors, directly shaping the next generation of dive educators.
The seminar is conducted under the guidance of Ronny Kain, whose experience and leadership ensure that the course meets the highest international standards. Supporting the seminar is a strong instructional team that includes Surbyiendranath, Jaka (IC), Cédric, Woody (IC), Leo, Pedro, Ramon, and Waz—a diverse and highly skilled group representing years of global diving and teaching expertise.
The SSI Instructor Trainer Seminar is not simply another course. It is a demanding professional transformation. Over the course of ten intense days, the candidates are challenged academically, practically, and mentally as they refine their teaching philosophy, leadership style, and evaluation skills.
The goal is clear: to transform seven experienced professionals into confident, capable, and inspiring SSI Instructor Trainers.
Throughout the seminar, candidates are evaluated on:
By the end of the program, those who successfully meet the standards will earn the right to shape the future of dive education—not only at Oceans 5, but anywhere in the world.
One of the key reasons Oceans 5 was selected to host this seminar is its exceptional infrastructure, specifically designed to support high-level professional training.
The facilities include:
These facilities allow candidates to focus fully on learning and teaching without distractions—an essential factor in a program as demanding as an Instructor Trainer Seminar.
For many participants, training in an environment that mirrors the standards expected of an Instructor Training Center is both motivating and inspiring. Oceans 5 provides exactly that.
Among the seven candidates, Ramon and Warren “Waz” stand out as key figures in Oceans 5’s future.
Both have built strong reputations as educators, mentors, and leaders within the dive industry. Their participation in the ITS represents not only personal professional growth, but also a long-term investment in Oceans 5’s training capacity.
If they successfully complete the Instructor Trainer Seminar, Ramon and Waz will officially become SSI Instructor Trainers at Oceans 5 Gili Air—a major achievement for both individuals and the dive center.
This will allow Oceans 5 to conduct more advanced professional programs internally, ensuring consistency, quality, and continuity in instructor education.
One of the most exciting outcomes of this seminar is already scheduled. Waz will conduct the first SSI Instructor Training Course at Oceans 5 starting on the 13th of February.
This marks a historic moment: the transition from hosting an Instructor Trainer Seminar to actively running Instructor Training Courses (ITCs) under Oceans 5’s own Instructor Trainers.
For aspiring instructors, this means the opportunity to complete their professional journey—from entry-level diver to SSI Instructor—within one of the most established training environments in Indonesia.
Many people familiar with Oceans 5 may be wondering: where is Sander, the owner of Oceans 5 Gili Air?
Sander remains deeply involved in the long-term vision of the dive center. While he is not conducting this specific Instructor Training Course, he will be leading another course later in the year. His continued involvement ensures that Oceans 5 maintains its strong leadership identity while expanding its instructional team.
This strategic approach allows Oceans 5 to grow sustainably, empowering new leaders while maintaining the core values that have defined the center for years.
The Instructor Trainer Seminar represents more than just a course—it is a milestone.
Within a few weeks, Oceans 5 Gili Air is expected to be officially recognized as an SSI Instructor Training Center. This status confirms that the dive center meets the highest standards in facilities, staffing, instructional quality, and professional integrity.
Becoming an Instructor Training Center places Oceans 5 among a select group of dive centers worldwide authorized to shape instructors from the ground up. It is a recognition earned through years of dedication, consistent quality, and a deep commitment to education.
As Ramon, Waz, and their fellow candidates continue through this demanding 10-day journey, the atmosphere at Oceans 5 is one of focus, motivation, and pride. This seminar symbolizes growth—not only for the individuals involved, but for the entire Oceans 5 community.
With world-class facilities, experienced leadership, and a clear vision for the future, Oceans 5 Gili Air is once again setting the standard for professional dive education.
The transformation happening during this Instructor Trainer Seminar will ripple outward for years to come—through future instructors, their students, and the global diving community.
And for Oceans 5, this is only the beginning of a bold new chapter.
Another Major Advantage of Becoming an SSI Instructor: More Instructor Ratings from Day One Choosing to become a scuba diving instructor is not only about passion for the ocean, teaching skills, or lifestyle freedom. It is also a professional business decision. How many courses you …
A New Chapter Starts on 13 February On the 13th of February, Oceans 5 Gili Air will officially start a new chapter in its long history of professional dive education: the first SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC). After more than a decade as a leading …
Just off the northwest coast of Lombok lies a small cluster of islands that feels like a different world altogether: the Gili Islands. For many travelers, the Gilis represent what they imagine a tropical island holiday should be—white-sand beaches, turquoise water, coral reefs close to shore, and a lifestyle that moves at its own gentle pace.
The Gili Islands consist of three islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Each island has its own character, atmosphere, and rhythm. While all three share the same marine park, the same reef system, and similar dive sites, the experience on land can feel very different.
Among the three, Gili Air stands out as a rare balance: lively enough to offer great restaurants, dive centers, and activities—but calm enough to still feel like a real island community rather than a tourist playground.
For many travelers, a holiday in Indonesia starts with Bali. Bali is beautiful, culturally rich, and full of unforgettable experiences. But Bali is also busy. Traffic jams are common, distances are longer than expected, and daily life often involves navigating cars, scooters, taxis, and crowded streets.
Gili Air offers a completely different reality.
There are no cars, no taxis, and no motorbikes on Gili Air. You don’t wake up to traffic noise or spend time stuck in congestion. Instead, people walk, cycle, or use bicycles to get around. Occasionally you’ll see a traditional horse cart, locally known as a cidomo, transporting goods or luggage. Children play on the roads, neighbors greet each other as they pass, and when it’s time for prayer, locals walk calmly to the mosque in the center of the island.
This absence of traffic creates something rare: mental quiet. On Gili Air, distances feel short, days feel longer, and stress fades quickly. Compared to Bali’s fast pace, Gili Air feels like a deep exhale.
Within the Gili Islands themselves, the biggest contrast is between Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.
Gili Trawangan—often called “Gili T”—is the most developed and busiest of the three islands. It is known for its nightlife, beach parties, late-night bars, and larger crowds. For some travelers, that energy is exactly what they are looking for.
Gili Air, on the other hand, is a calmer and more relaxed version of island life. There are beach bars, cocktail spots, and sunset lounges, but there are no nightclubs, no all-inclusive resorts, and no mass tourism complexes. Evenings on Gili Air are about barefoot dinners on the sand, quiet conversations, live acoustic music, and watching the sun disappear behind Bali’s volcanoes.
It’s an island that suits:
One of the most special aspects of Gili Air is that it is not just a tourist island. In the center of the island lies a local village where around 1,800 local residents live year-round. This village is not hidden away—it is part of everyday island life.
The main road and the island road that circles Gili Air are lined with small resorts, guesthouses, cafés, restaurants, beach bars, and boutiques. Walk a little inland, and you’ll find local homes, schools, small shops, and community spaces. The result is an island where tourism and local life exist side by side, not separated.
This balance gives Gili Air its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors are not just passing through; they are sharing space with a living, breathing community.
One common misconception is that staying on Gili Air means missing out on the “best” dive sites. In reality, all dive centers across the Gili Islands access the same marine park and the same dive sites.
Whether you dive from Gili Air or Gili Trawangan, you will explore the same reefs, the same coral gardens, and the same underwater landscapes. The difference is not underwater—it’s above water, before and after the dive.
Dive centers like Oceans 5 Gili Air regularly dive all around the islands, including sites often associated with Gili Trawangan. Boats travel easily between islands, making location less important than dive philosophy, group size, and teaching quality.
This means you can enjoy:
And still return to the calm, green, and peaceful atmosphere of Gili Air after every dive.
The waters surrounding Gili Air are famous for their clarity. On calm days, visibility can be exceptional, making snorkeling directly from the beach a daily activity rather than a planned excursion.
Turtles are frequently spotted close to shore, coral reefs start in shallow water, and the gentle conditions make the island ideal for:
The ocean is not something you “travel to” on Gili Air—it’s always just a few steps away.
Although Gili Air is famous for diving and snorkeling, life on the island offers much more than time underwater.
Visitors can enjoy:
For those who want a bigger adventure, Gili Air is also the perfect base for day trips to Lombok, including excursions to the majestic Mount Rinjani. From waterfalls and rice fields to hiking and cultural tours, Lombok adds depth to a Gili Air stay without overwhelming it.
Gili Air is not about ticking off attractions or filling every hour with activity. It’s about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying simple pleasures.
Mornings start with barefoot walks on the beach. Afternoons drift by between swims, books, and cold drinks. Evenings end with sunsets, shared meals, and soft conversations under the stars.
There is no pressure to rush. No traffic to beat. No schedule to follow unless you want one.
Gili Air is ideal for people who:
It is not an island for nightclubs, loud parties, or all-inclusive resorts. And that is exactly why so many people fall in love with it.
The Gili Islands offer something rare in today’s world: a choice. You can choose energy or calm, crowds or space, speed or stillness.
Gili Air represents the gentle side of island life—a place where tourism has not erased community, where diving remains easy and accessible, and where relaxation feels natural rather than forced.
For travelers who want crystal-clear water, world-class diving, warm local culture, and a slower pace of life, Gili Air is not just an alternative to Bali or Gili Trawangan—it is often the place they didn’t know they were looking for, until they arrived.
Oceans 5 Gili Air Maybe you have already heard some rumors.Maybe you noticed subtle changes on our website, on social media, or around the dive resort itself.Or maybe you are reading this as a returning guest, a future student, or simply someone who cares about …