SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
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 …
Running Together Across the Gili Islands On the 13th of December, something special happened in the heart of the Gili Matra Marine Park. Before most of the islands were awake, 86 runners—a mix of local residents and international participants—gathered with one shared goal: to take part in the Tri-Isla-Thon, a …
Oceans 5 Gili Air has always believed that a dive centre should be more than a business operating on an island. From the very beginning, Oceans 5 has taken the position that respect from the local community is not something you demand—it is something you earn. And that respect is not earned by paying salaries alone or providing a boarding room for staff. It is earned by giving something back that goes beyond the direct needs of the business and contributes to the long-term well-being of the island, its people, their knowledge, and their future.
In 2025, Oceans 5 Gili Air continued and expanded this philosophy with concrete actions that directly benefited the local community, Indonesian dive professionals, students, and the marine environment of the Gili Islands.
One of the most impactful initiatives in 2025 was the launch of a free Divemaster internship program for Indonesian citizens. This was not a discounted program, a sponsorship tied to work contracts, or a marketing exercise—it was a fully free professional training opportunity.
Eight Indonesian candidates signed up for this program, and by the end of the year, all eight successfully became certified PADI Divemasters. This achievement alone already sets the program apart, but the impact goes much further.
After certification, the new Divemasters were free to choose their own path. Some found employment in Komodo, others in Raja Ampat, and some decided to stay and work at Oceans 5 Gili Air. As qualified dive professionals, they now earn a significantly higher income than before, allowing them to support their families and start saving for their next professional step: becoming dive instructors.
For many Indonesian families, this kind of career progression has a real, long-term economic impact. Becoming a dive instructor does not just improve personal income—it often changes the financial stability of an entire family.
In 2025, Oceans 5 Gili Air also supported eight Indonesian university students through a marine research internship program. Over two academic semesters, these students conducted regular data collection around the Gili Islands as part of their research projects.
The students came from the University of Mataram, University of Lampung, and University of Malang, and worked closely with Oceans 5 staff during fieldwork. Many of these students are now close to graduating as marine scientists, and Oceans 5 hopes they will find careers in marine conservation, research, and environmental management.
In 2026, this program will be expanded to twelve students, further increasing its impact.
The reason Oceans 5 supports this program is simple but important:
Long-term, consistent research by local researchers produces more reliable data.
When the same researchers collect data over extended periods, patterns become clearer and conclusions become stronger. This data is used by universities and government institutions to make decisions about environmental regulations and marine park management.
Just as importantly, the knowledge stays in Indonesia. The skills of collecting, interpreting, and applying scientific data do not leave the country with foreign researchers. They remain with Indonesian students who understand the local environment, culture, and challenges.
Oceans 5 Gili Air is proud to be one of only five official partners of the Gili Matra Marine Park, working together with BKKPN Kupang. This partnership is not symbolic—it is active and ongoing.
Throughout 2025, Oceans 5 supported BKKPN with reef surveys, monitoring programs, and hands-on action such as removing algae blooms from coral patches. These algae outbreaks are a serious threat to coral health, fish populations, and turtles.
Without a healthy marine ecosystem, the marine park will decline. And without a healthy marine park, tourism will decline. That directly affects every business and every family on the island.
Marine protection is not an abstract idea—it is directly connected to jobs, income, and the future of Gili Air.
Not everyone growing up on Gili Air gets the chance to experience the marine park the way tourists do. Many local children have never snorkeled or dived on the reefs that made the Gili Islands famous.
That is why in 2025, Oceans 5 Gili Air organized introduction dives for 20 local children. Under the supervision of experienced instructors, these kids entered the ocean and saw what lies just below the surface:
crystal-clear water, sea turtles, Nemo, Dory, and healthy coral reefs.
This experience creates understanding. The children now know why tourists come, why the marine park matters, and why it must be protected. Conservation starts with awareness, and awareness starts with experience.
Since 2010, Oceans 5 Gili Air has organized weekly beach cleanups in the harbor area—the place where tourists arrive and depart.
First impressions matter. If visitors step onto an island covered in rubbish, that impression is difficult to change. A dirty harbor affects tourism, reputation, and pride in the island.
These cleanups have continued consistently for over 15 years, including throughout 2025. They are not sponsored events or seasonal campaigns—they are simply part of Oceans 5’s responsibility toward the island.
To make all these efforts visible, Oceans 5 Gili Air created a Conservation Exhibition Center on its premises. While the center is still under development, visitors can already see what Oceans 5 and its partners are doing for Gili Air.
The exhibition is designed for tourists, students, and locals who want to understand how diving, conservation, education, and community support are connected. It is a place for transparency, learning, and inspiration.
In 2026, Oceans 5 Gili Air will continue this work:
Community involvement is not a marketing strategy for Oceans 5—it is a responsibility. A business that depends on an island must also protect it, support its people, and invest in its future.
That is how respect is earned.
A New Chapter for Oceans 5 Gili Air: Change, Growth, and the Same Heartbeat If you’ve seen our recent social media posts, heard whispers around the island, or caught a few rumors online, you might already know: after 15 incredible years, Oceans 5 Gili Air is …