PADI IDC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
PADI IDC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
The Newest Development on Gili Air: A Safe Haven for Island Cats The tranquil island of Gili Air is often praised for its white sand beaches, welcoming locals, and laid-back atmosphere—but beneath the postcard-perfect surface lies a growing movement of sustainability, community care, and compassion. …
How Gili Air Is Turning Glass Bottles into Bricks A Sustainability Revolution Begins The island of Gili Air, known for its turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere, is undergoing a quiet revolution. Not in politics or tourism, but in waste management—specifically in how …
On 16 April 2010, Oceans 5 Gili Air received an email from PADI that would change the future of diving on Gili Air forever. That message officially confirmed Oceans 5 as a registered PADI Dive Shop, the beginning of a remarkable journey that has spanned 15 years of dedication, growth, and transformation. Today, as we celebrate this milestone in April 2025, we reflect on the passion and perseverance that made it all possible.
Back in 2010, Gili Air was a world apart from what it is today. Unlike its more developed sibling Gili Trawangan, Gili Air had only a few accommodations, no fast boats, and a modest trickle of tourism. The island’s harbor was a quiet space, where travelers arrived by local boats from Lombok or by slow island hoppers making their way from Gili Trawangan.
At that time, Oceans 5 became the fourth dive shop on the island—a bold move in a location where few saw commercial potential. Most people questioned the decision to establish a dive shop in the harbor, far from the more popular beachfronts. There were hardly any other businesses in the area, and almost no accommodation nearby.
Even more surprising was the layout of Oceans 5 itself. While most dive shops operated in compact spaces, Oceans 5 was designed with expansive land, a 25-meter swimming pool, and a layout that allowed for freedom of movement, comfort, and growth. People called it overkill. Some even called it crazy.
But behind that unconventional plan was a vision.
Sander Buis, founder of Oceans 5 and PADI Course Director, saw beyond the present. He believed that Gili Air, with its serene charm, kind community, and strategic location, had immense potential. He envisioned a dive center that would be spacious, inclusive, professional, and environmentally responsible, where divers wouldn’t just come to learn—they would come to belong.
That vision wasn’t just about creating a dive shop. It was about building a dive resort, a community, and a legacy. A place where people would feel at home the moment they stepped off the boat. A center that would grow with the island, rather than fight against it.
Over the past 15 years, Oceans 5 Gili Air has grown into a full-fledged boutique dive resort that still holds tightly to its original principles. The dive center operates with a limited number of instructors and divemasters, ensuring personalized attention and high-quality training. Rather than expanding endlessly, the focus has remained on quality over quantity.
With two dedicated scuba diving pools, new rental equipment, and a spacious dive shop built in a traditional Javanese joglo, Oceans 5 offers a calm, professional atmosphere for everyone—from absolute beginners to seasoned pros. On the premises are 11 resort rooms, a gym, and several island businesses including ticket offices, restaurants, and small shops, all of which contribute to the vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
But what truly sets Oceans 5 apart isn’t infrastructure. It’s philosophy.
From the very start, Oceans 5 has had a close connection with the local community. The dive shop works in harmony with the five original families of Gili Air, supporting local employment and community projects. Over the years, that connection has only deepened.
Whether through offering free education to Indonesian divemaster candidates, organizing weekly beach cleanups since 2010, or collaborating with the University of Mataram to conduct coral reef research, Oceans 5 continues to give back to the island that welcomed it 15 years ago.
This connection is not transactional—it’s emotional. It’s mutual. And it’s lasting.
The journey of Oceans 5 hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2018, the island was hit by a series of devastating earthquakes that destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Oceans 5, like many others, was deeply affected. But thanks to the resilience of the team and support from the community, it rebuilt stronger than before.
Then came COVID-19, bringing tourism to a standstill and testing the limits of every business on the island. Once again, Oceans 5 stood firm. By retaining staff, offering local conservation work, and focusing on maintenance and education, the dive center used the downtime not as a pause—but as preparation.
It is through these moments of adversity that the true spirit of Oceans 5 was revealed: resilience, unity, and hope.
As Gili Air developed and more dive centers arrived, many began to emulate Oceans 5’s model—from pool size to conservation initiatives and even community involvement. For the team at Oceans 5, this isn’t a source of frustration. It’s a source of pride.
Being an example to others means you’re doing something right. And while there may now be other dive shops that try to replicate the success, there is only one real Oceans 5. The original. The one that believed when nobody else did, that committed to long-term goals, and that continues to deliver excellence in diver education, environmental responsibility, and community impact.
In 2014, Oceans 5 received the prestigious title of PADI Career Development Centre (CDC)—the only one on Gili Air. This recognition reflects the consistent quality of instruction and the high number of professional-level certifications conducted at the center.
Today, Oceans 5 is home to two in-house PADI Course Directors, offering up to 10 PADI IDCs per year. The center has transformed thousands of divers into Divemasters and Instructors, preparing them for careers around the world.
The IDC program at Oceans 5 is known for its realistic teaching techniques, stress-free environment, and small group sizes, ensuring that candidates are not just ready to pass their Instructor Examination, but to teach confidently and responsibly anywhere in the world.
Fifteen years is both a long time and a blink of an eye. For Oceans 5, it marks not just an anniversary but a new chapter. The future will see more innovation, continued conservation efforts, and expanded partnerships with local and global marine organizations.
In 2025, Oceans 5 also launched a free Divemaster Internship Program for Indonesian citizens, offering locals a chance to pursue a professional diving career without financial barriers. It’s a fitting symbol of where the dive center’s heart lies: with the people, the ocean, and the island.
There are also plans to add new accommodation, expand the conservation department, and introduce more specialty and technical diving programs, including TDI tech courses—ensuring that Oceans 5 remains at the cutting edge of dive education.
As we celebrate this anniversary, founder Sander Buis shares his thoughts:
“When I opened Oceans 5 in 2010, people thought I was dreaming too big. But I wasn’t building just a dive shop—I was building a space where people could feel safe, learn, grow, and fall in love with the ocean. Oceans 5 has always been about more than diving. It’s about the people we meet, the lives we change, and the island we protect. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.”
This celebration is not just for the Oceans 5 team—it’s for everyone who walked through the doors of the dive shop. To the divers who took their first breath underwater, the professionals who started their careers here, the guests who came back year after year, and the local families who trusted and supported Oceans 5: thank you.
To all the instructors, divemasters, interns, students, and friends from around the world—you made this possible.
Without you, there would be no Oceans 5.
Est. 16 April 2010 – A Legacy That Continues
Waz Leads His First PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air In the world of scuba diving, becoming a PADI Course Director is a pinnacle achievement—one that signifies years of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to education, safety, and the underwater world. And for every …
The Best Times for Diving Around the Gili Islands The Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—are often described as paradise on earth. With their white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back charm, they’ve become one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for divers of all …
It was a proud and emotional day at Oceans 5 Gili Air when PADI Region Manager Neil visited the dive center to present a very special form of recognition — the PADI Certificate of Excellence. These certificates are not simply acknowledgments from within the industry; they represent the voices of students who have experienced the PADI courses firsthand and have been deeply impacted by the quality of their dive education. This time, four of Oceans 5’s instructors — Tama, Warren, Unus, and the owner and PADI Course Director Sander — were awarded this rare honor.
A moment like this isn’t just a milestone. It’s a reflection of a dive center’s values, its approach to teaching, and the passion of the instructors who pour their hearts into every course. Oceans 5 Gili Air has long held the belief that high-quality dive education is not about rushing through checklists or fitting students into a tight schedule. Instead, the center has carved its reputation by teaching in small groups, giving personal attention, and letting students learn at their own pace. The recognition from PADI — and more importantly, from students — proves that this philosophy resonates.
The PADI Certificate of Excellence is a prestigious recognition awarded to instructors based on direct feedback from students who complete their PADI courses. After every course, students are invited to fill out surveys evaluating their experience — not just with the dive center, but with their individual instructor. When a PADI professional consistently receives outstanding reviews and commendations, a Certificate of Excellence is issued.
It’s worth noting that this recognition is not automatically given. It is not based on how many certifications an instructor issues or how many students they teach. Instead, it highlights the rare instructors who make a lasting impression on their students — those who go above and beyond to ensure their students feel safe, confident, and inspired.
For Oceans 5 to have not just one, but four instructors recognized in this way is no small feat. It speaks volumes about the dive center’s consistency, commitment to quality, and the shared philosophy that underpins its team.
The instructors who received this honor are each unique in their background and teaching style, but they all share one key trait: a passion for transforming divers into confident underwater explorers.
Instructor Tama, known for his calm demeanor and encouraging energy, has a reputation for guiding nervous divers through their first underwater breaths with grace and patience. His students often mention how safe and supported they felt, even when struggling with skills or buoyancy. Al’s strength lies in creating a stress-free learning environment, helping students become comfortable in their own time.
Instructor Warren, who also holds the title of PADI Course Director, brings a wealth of experience to the classroom and the ocean. His students describe him as both knowledgeable and relatable, someone who combines professionalism with a great sense of humor. Warren has the rare ability to balance high standards with relaxed communication, allowing his students to meet PADI requirements while genuinely enjoying their time underwater.
Instructor Unus, a local Indonesian instructor, is one of Oceans 5’s proudest success stories. Starting as a divemaster, he worked his way up through the ranks, gaining experience and skill with every certification. His journey is especially inspiring for local students who dream of building careers in diving. Today, Unus is known for his strong connection with students from all backgrounds, especially those diving in Indonesia for the first time. He brings a deep knowledge of the local marine environment, and his enthusiasm for conservation is infectious.
PADI Course Director and Oceans 5 owner Sander received his certificate from one of his former IDC candidates — a full-circle moment that embodies what dive education is all about. Sander’s dedication to instructor training is the reason why Oceans 5 has gained the prestigious PADI Career Development Centre status. His mentorship of future instructors is not just about passing exams, but about building character, resilience, and a love for the ocean. For Sander, receiving a Certificate of Excellence from someone he once mentored was a particularly meaningful honor.
What sets Oceans 5 Gili Air apart isn’t just the talent of its instructors — it’s the shared teaching philosophy that guides every course. From beginner Open Water courses to professional IDC programs, the dive center insists on small group sizes, plenty of in-water time, and personal attention for each diver.
Courses at Oceans 5 are not designed to be rushed. Whether it’s a student who needs more time to equalize, or someone who struggles with buoyancy control, instructors at Oceans 5 never pressure students to “just get it done.” Instead, they adapt the schedule to fit the pace of the student, allowing confidence and competence to develop naturally.
This approach may seem simple, but in an industry where speed and quantity can often overshadow quality, it’s a brave and commendable choice. And clearly, students have taken notice.
Time and time again, students leave glowing reviews not just about the dive sites and equipment, but about how seen and supported they felt by their instructors. For many, diving can be intimidating at first. But with the right support, it becomes transformative.
Being awarded a Certificate of Excellence once is an honor. But for Oceans 5 to consistently have multiple instructors recognized speaks to something deeper — a culture of excellence that runs throughout the dive center.
At Oceans 5, new instructors are mentored carefully. Whether they’ve just finished their IDC or are coming from another location, they learn the Oceans 5 way: quality over quantity, patience over pressure, and student-centered teaching. The dive center doesn’t just hand out teaching assignments. Instead, instructors work closely with Course Directors and senior staff to ensure that they are prepared, aligned with the center’s values, and fully supported in their professional development.
This culture is part of what makes Oceans 5 Gili Air such a special place to learn — not just for students, but for instructors as well.
The day of the awards was filled with smiles, handshakes, and a sense of validation for the years of hard work each instructor has put into their craft. Neil, the PADI Region Manager, took the time to speak with each recipient, recognizing not only their teaching ability but also their contribution to the broader PADI community in Indonesia.
The Certificates of Excellence were handed out in front of staff, interns, and students — a fitting audience for a dive center that sees itself as a family. Applause broke out as each name was called, and more than a few eyes glistened with emotion.
For Sander, it was a particularly meaningful day. As both owner and Course Director, he has spent over a decade building Oceans 5 from a small dive shop into the only PADI Career Development Centre on Gili Air. To see three of his instructors — and himself — recognized in this way confirmed that the vision he’s worked so hard to create is not just working, but thriving.
Recognition from students is the most genuine form of praise an instructor can receive. It’s not about awards for display or numbers on a certificate wall. It’s about knowing that you made a difference — that someone overcame their fear, fell in love with the ocean, or even found a new life path because of your guidance.
For Oceans 5, this recognition also reinforces their mission to keep quality at the core of everything they do. Whether it’s introducing someone to diving for the first time or preparing future instructors, the center’s priority remains the same: to teach well, to teach responsibly, and to teach with heart.
As the 2025 season approaches, Oceans 5 Gili Air continues to innovate and improve. The dive center recently upgraded its compressor room and introduced new training programs in marine conservation, technical diving, and underwater photography. The focus on environmental responsibility is stronger than ever, with weekly beach cleanups, collaborations with the University of Mataram, and conservation-themed courses embedded into every professional-level training.
Instructors are encouraged to keep learning, too. At Oceans 5, teaching is never static. New specialties, professional development workshops, and continuing education are part of everyday life. It’s this continuous pursuit of growth that keeps the dive center — and its instructors — ahead of the curve.
For students who choose Oceans 5, whether for their Open Water course or their IDC, they can trust that they are learning from some of the best in the industry. And now, there’s a little extra proof — straight from PADI and straight from the students.
The Certificates of Excellence awarded to Tama, Warren, Unus, and Sander are more than framed pieces of paper. They are symbols of trust, gratitude, and recognition from the people who matter most — the students.
In an industry where divers have many choices, Oceans 5 Gili Air stands out not just because of its location, its facilities, or its accolades, but because of its heart. A heart that beats through every instructor, every dive, and every moment spent under the waves. The team at Oceans 5 doesn’t just teach people to dive — they teach them to love the ocean, to trust in themselves, and to explore the world beneath the surface with confidence.
So to Tama, Warren, Unus, and Sander — congratulations. Your passion and excellence are seen, appreciated, and celebrated. And to the rest of the Oceans 5 team: keep diving, keep teaching, and keep making a difference, one student at a time.
The Importance of a Slow and Controlled Descent In the world of scuba diving, many divers spend a lot of time focusing on the excitement of what happens during the dive: the marine life, the buoyancy control, the navigation, or that picture-perfect wreck lying silently …
Oceans 5 Gili Air Celebrates a Milestone Oceans 5 Gili Air is proud to announce a significant milestone in our commitment to professional diving education. As of today, March 16th, we no longer have PADI Master Instructor Waz on our team—instead, we are thrilled to …
Becoming a PADI Instructor is a dream for many divers who wish to turn their passion into a career. However, the intensity and pressure of some Instructor Development Courses (IDC) can make the experience stressful. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the PADI IDC is structured to ensure that candidates learn in a relaxed and supportive environment, giving them the confidence to become outstanding instructors without the unnecessary stress.
One of the key aspects that sets Oceans 5 Gili Air apart is the extended duration of its PADI IDC. While many dive centers condense the IDC into 14 or even 10 days, Oceans 5 Gili Air takes a different approach, spreading the course over 20 days. This extended schedule allows for a more gradual and stress-free learning process. Instructor candidates do not have to rush through essential skills, theory sessions, and practical applications. Instead, they have time to fully absorb the material, practice their skills, and build confidence in their teaching abilities.
The daily schedule reflects this relaxed philosophy. Classes start at 8:30 AM and finish by 5:00 PM, allowing for a structured yet unhurried learning experience. A one-hour lunch break in the middle of the day gives candidates the chance to recharge before the afternoon sessions. Unlike many other IDCs where candidates have to stay up late completing assignments, at Oceans 5 Gili Air, most of the homework is completed during class hours. This means that when the day ends, candidates have free time to unwind, socialize, or review materials at their own pace.
The relaxed nature of the IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air is not just about the structured schedule—it is also about the environment in which candidates learn. The dive center offers an open and inviting space where candidates can study, practice, and relax without pressure.
For those who want to maximize their preparation, the classroom remains open 24 hours a day, and high-speed WiFi is available for free. This means candidates can access learning materials whenever they feel like reviewing, whether early in the morning or late at night. Additionally, the course director is always available for guidance, offering extra support to those who want to deepen their understanding of the material.
For those who prefer to unwind, Oceans 5 Gili Air provides the perfect setting. Right outside the classroom, there is a traditional Indonesian beruga—a shaded wooden platform with comfortable seating where candidates can take a break, chat with fellow divers, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. On the other side of the classroom, there is a swimming pool, offering a refreshing way to cool off after a long day of learning.
The PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air is designed to foster camaraderie among candidates. With small group sizes, candidates quickly build strong connections, supporting and encouraging one another throughout the course. At the end of the day, there is time to socialize over a drink, exchange experiences, and relax before another day of training.
Unlike other dive centers where IDCs can feel like a high-pressure competition, Oceans 5 Gili Air focuses on cooperation and shared learning. Candidates are not just trained to pass their exams but are encouraged to develop into confident and knowledgeable instructors who can handle real-life diving situations with ease.
Another advantage of the relaxed environment at Oceans 5 Gili Air is the direct access candidates have to their course director. With a small number of candidates per IDC, the course director can focus on each individual’s strengths and weaknesses, ensuring they receive the attention and support needed to succeed.
This personalized approach means that candidates who need extra practice in certain areas can take the time to refine their skills without feeling rushed. Whether it’s theory, confined water skills, or open water teaching presentations, the extended schedule allows candidates to master each component of the course at their own pace.
Oceans 5 Gili Air is not just a dive center—it’s a place designed to create the perfect learning environment. The classroom is spacious and well-equipped with modern teaching aids, ensuring candidates have everything they need to succeed. The air-conditioned space provides a comfortable atmosphere for learning, and high-speed WiFi ensures that candidates can easily access digital learning materials.
Outside of the classroom, the dive center’s facilities make it easy to balance work and relaxation. The swimming pool, beruga, and nearby cafes and restaurants offer plenty of options for unwinding after a day of training. Candidates can also explore the island, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Gili Air, where bicycles and horse carts replace noisy cars and motorbikes.
One of the most common sources of stress during an IDC is the last-minute cramming required to keep up with the demanding schedule. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the extended 20-day IDC removes this stress entirely. With a structured approach that ensures gradual learning, candidates can absorb information more effectively, reducing the pressure of trying to master everything in a short period.
This approach means that by the time the PADI Instructor Examination (IE) arrives, candidates feel well-prepared and confident. They have had ample time to practice their teaching presentations, refine their rescue skills, and review theory concepts without the panic of last-minute studying.
Unlike some dive centers that aim to push as many candidates through their IDC programs as possible, Oceans 5 Gili Air takes a different approach. By keeping class sizes small and allowing plenty of time for learning, the dive center prioritizes quality over quantity. The goal is not just to create instructors who can pass the exam but to train professionals who feel ready to take on the real-world challenges of teaching scuba diving.
This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the IDC. The supportive environment, the relaxed pace, and the emphasis on real learning over rote memorization all contribute to a program that produces confident, skilled, and well-rounded PADI Instructors.
The journey to becoming a PADI Instructor should be an enjoyable one. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the PADI IDC is not just about obtaining a certification—it’s about truly learning the skills needed to be an effective instructor while enjoying the process. By offering a relaxed, supportive, and well-structured learning environment, Oceans 5 Gili Air ensures that candidates walk away not only as certified instructors but as confident and capable diving professionals.
If you are considering becoming a PADI Instructor and want to do so in a stress-free environment that allows for real learning, Oceans 5 Gili Air is the perfect choice. With its relaxed atmosphere, top-notch facilities, and supportive community, it provides the ideal setting to start your career as a PADI Instructor with confidence and enthusiasm.
The PADI Discover Scuba Diving Program at Oceans 5 Gili Air Have you ever dreamed of gliding weightlessly through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and graceful sea turtles? If you’re visiting the Gili Islands and want to experience the magic of scuba diving …