SSI ITC Dive Resort Oceans 5 Gili Air Blog Posts
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 …
PADI Certificates of Excellence Awarded to Oceans 5 Gili Air Instructors 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 …
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 on the ocean floor. However, one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of every dive begins before you even get there: the descent. Whether you’re diving in a swimming pool for a confined water session or descending into the blue on a fun dive or advanced course, how you descend can make all the difference.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the only PADI Career Development Centre on Gili Air, the emphasis is always on a slow and controlled descent. From the first moments of the PADI Open Water Course to the most advanced technical dives, students, interns, and even fun divers are reminded to take their time on the way down. Why? Because safety, ear health, and dive comfort start from the very top of your dive.
Before we dive into the why, let’s quickly cover the what. When you begin your descent, the pressure around you increases. At sea level, we experience 1 atmosphere (ATA) of pressure. For every 10 meters of depth, another atmosphere of pressure is added. As the pressure increases, air spaces in your body—particularly your middle ears and sinuses—must equalize to match the surrounding pressure.
This process is natural but not automatic. Divers have to actively equalize their ears by techniques like swallowing, wiggling their jaws, or using the Valsalva maneuver (gently blowing against pinched nostrils). If the descent is too fast or uncontrolled, the pressure can increase faster than your body can equalize, resulting in discomfort, barotrauma, or even serious ear injuries such as eardrum rupture.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the teaching team emphasizes a golden rule: “There is no need to rush to the bottom.” Every instructor, divemaster, and assistant is trained to teach and demonstrate slow and controlled descents, regardless of the dive site or dive level. Before every pool session or ocean dive, instructors take time to brief their students clearly on the importance of descending slowly and equalizing early and often.
Students are encouraged to listen to their bodies and communicate if something doesn’t feel right. They’re reminded that descending is not a race; it’s a critical transition phase where safety and comfort must take priority.
Many divers think of equalization and controlled descents as something they only need to worry about during their PADI Open Water Course. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Every diver, from beginner to professional, should approach the descent with the same care and attention.
For brand new divers, a slow descent sets the tone for good diving habits. It’s also the most vulnerable stage of their diving education. Ears are not yet conditioned to frequent pressure changes, and students are still learning how to manage buoyancy and underwater orientation. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, instructors spend time in the pool teaching students to equalize in shallow water and control their descent using their inflator and breathing. By the time students get to the ocean, they’re already familiar with the idea that slow is safe.
Even experienced divers can experience ear issues if they rush the descent. During deep dives, wreck penetrations, or drift dives where currents are involved, the temptation to descend quickly and “get into position” is common. However, skipping the basics can lead to discomfort or injuries that could have been prevented.
In the Advanced Open Water Course at Oceans 5, instructors make it clear: you must always equalize, no matter how many dives you’ve done. Specialty courses like Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, or Drift Diver all include review of descent techniques, especially because descents in these conditions can be more challenging due to depth, visibility, or movement in the water.
Professional divers are not immune to ear problems. In fact, because they dive so frequently, they need to be even more cautious. During the Divemaster Course and Instructor Development Course (IDC) at Oceans 5, candidates are trained to model proper descent behavior. A dive professional who rushes the descent is not only risking their own safety but also setting a poor example for students.
During the IDC, Course Directors Sander and Waz stress that instructors must control the descent of the group—not the other way around. Leading by example is key, and that begins from the moment the group leaves the surface.
Even if you’re not taking a course, the descent is no less important. Fun divers at Oceans 5 are always reminded during briefings to equalize early and often. The dive guides, who are experienced and well-trained, monitor guests during descents and provide support if anyone struggles. Nobody is forced to rush or descend if they need a moment. This creates a more relaxed atmosphere and helps guests avoid stress or ear discomfort.
Descending too fast isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Here are some common risks associated with rapid or uncontrolled descents:
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the descent is more than just a means to get to depth—it’s a fundamental skill, taught carefully and reinforced throughout every course. Here are some of the ways this dive center builds good descent habits:
Before every dive, instructors explain the descent plan in detail. This includes:
During the pool sessions of the Open Water Course, students practice slow descents and learn to control their buoyancy with their BCDs and breathing. Instructors use visual and verbal cues to reinforce correct posture and timing.
On training dives, the descent is always done in a controlled group. Instructors descend slightly ahead of the group, monitoring each diver’s progress, hand signals, and comfort. Nobody is ever rushed to the bottom.
Part of the pre-dive routine includes confirming that all equipment is functioning and that divers are comfortable. Instructors may ask students or interns to signal that they’re equalizing and breathing slowly before beginning the descent.
When students successfully complete a controlled descent, instructors celebrate it. Reinforcing good habits with praise helps solidify them.
One of the most important lessons any diver can learn is to listen to their body. If your ears aren’t equalizing—stop. If you feel pressure—ascend slightly. If you feel uncomfortable—communicate. The ocean isn’t going anywhere, and there’s no trophy for reaching the bottom first.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, instructors encourage every diver to take ownership of their dive. This includes understanding that no two dives—or bodies—are the same. A diver who could descend easily yesterday may struggle today due to a mild cold or congestion. Taking time to assess and respect what your body is telling you is a sign of a smart and responsible diver.
By emphasizing a slow and controlled descent from the very beginning, Oceans 5 Gili Air helps create divers who are not only safer but also more confident and aware. That calm, steady approach extends into every aspect of diving: buoyancy control, air consumption, communication, and awareness of the environment.
Divers trained at Oceans 5 quickly learn that every descent is an opportunity—to practice mindfulness, to care for your body, to maintain control, and to start the dive on the right foot (or fin). Whether it’s the crystal-clear waters of the Gili Islands or a training session in the pool, the principles remain the same: descend slowly, equalize often, stay aware.
Scuba diving offers a window into another world, but getting there requires care and intention. The descent may seem like a small part of the dive, but it has a big impact on safety, comfort, and dive success. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, this part of the dive is never rushed, never overlooked, and never compromised.
From beginner to pro, fun diver to instructor candidate, every diver is taught that a slow and controlled descent isn’t optional—it’s essential. By instilling this habit early and reinforcing it often, Oceans 5 helps divers protect their ears, improve their confidence, and enjoy every moment beneath the surface.
So next time you slip beneath the waves, remember: your dive doesn’t start at the bottom—it starts the moment you leave the surface. Take your time. Equalize early. And descend like a pro.
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 …
The PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air 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 …
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 without committing to a full certification course, the PADI Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) Program at Oceans 5 Gili Air is the perfect option for you.
The PADI Discover Scuba Diving Program is an introductory diving experience designed for those who have never dived before. Unlike the PADI Open Water Course, which requires three to four days of training, the DSD program is a one-day experience that allows you to explore the underwater world under the direct supervision of a certified PADI Instructor.
While it is not a certification, it provides a safe, enjoyable, and relaxed introduction to scuba diving. If you’ve always wanted to see marine life up close but don’t have the time for a full course, this program is the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of diving.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we believe that learning to dive should be a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Unlike other dive centers that may rush students through the process, we prioritize individual comfort and confidence before taking you into the ocean. We ensure that each participant has ample time to master the necessary skills, providing a personalized and unhurried experience that makes diving fun, safe, and memorable.
Your PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience at Oceans 5 Gili Air consists of three key parts:
Before you enter the water, your instructor will introduce you to the basic principles of scuba diving. You’ll learn about:
This theory session ensures that you understand the fundamental concepts of scuba diving before proceeding to the next step.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we strongly believe that comfort and confidence are key to an enjoyable dive. That’s why we start with a pool training session in our spacious training pool. Under the close supervision of your instructor, you will practice essential scuba diving skills, such as:
This controlled environment allows you to get used to the sensation of breathing underwater at your own pace. There’s no rush—you’ll have as much time as you need to feel comfortable before moving on to the ocean dive.
Once you feel confident and ready, it’s time for the highlight of the experience—your first open water dive! You’ll board a comfortable dive boat and head to one of the beautiful dive sites around Gili Air, Gili Meno, or Gili Trawangan.
During the dive, you’ll descend to a maximum depth of 12 meters (40 feet) under the direct supervision of your instructor. The moment you take your first breaths in the open ocean, you’ll be immersed in an entirely new world. Expect to encounter:
Throughout the dive, your instructor will be right by your side, guiding you and ensuring your safety while allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking underwater scenery.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we do things a little differently from other dive centers. Here’s what makes our Discover Scuba Diving experience unique:
For your Discover Scuba Diving experience, all dive equipment is provided by Oceans 5 Gili Air. However, you should bring:
You don’t need prior experience—just a willingness to learn and explore! However, participants should be in good health and comfortable in the water.
Many participants fall in love with diving after their first experience and want to continue their training. If you enjoyed your DSD experience, the next step is the PADI Open Water Course, which allows you to earn a lifetime certification to dive independently.
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we offer flexible options, so if you decide to continue with the Open Water Course, your Discover Scuba Diving experience can count toward the first part of the certification. That means you’ll already be ahead if you choose to get certified!
If you’re ready to experience the thrill of breathing underwater and exploring the marine world, book your PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience with Oceans 5 Gili Air today. Whether you want to get up close with turtles, explore vibrant reefs, or simply see if diving is right for you, our expert instructors will ensure you have a safe, fun, and unforgettable adventure.
Contact us via: 📍 WhatsApp: +6285333397823
📍 Email: [email protected]
📍 Website: www.oceans5dive.com
Join us for your first breaths underwater and make memories that will last a lifetime!
PADI Course Director Sander Buis 2024 was a remarkable year for Oceans 5 Gili Air, marked by incredible achievements and milestones that have further solidified the dive center’s reputation as a premier location for professional dive training. Among the highlights of the year was the …
Team Teaching Possibilities The journey to becoming a PADI Instructor is one filled with excitement, challenges, and personal growth. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, a premier PADI Career Development Centre (CDC) in Indonesia, the Instructor Development Course (IDC) equips candidates with the skills and knowledge …
Oceans 5 Gili Air is proud to announce a groundbreaking expansion in its educational offerings with the launch of new conservation courses. This exciting development comes as part of the center’s ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent and raising awareness about marine preservation, while providing diverse career opportunities for the local community.
At the heart of this initiative is a strategic partnership with Marine Conservation Indonesia, a local marine science organization renowned for its innovative conservation programs. Developed by experienced marine scientists, these courses are uniquely designed to offer immersive learning experiences ranging from one-day introductory sessions to more in-depth three-day and seven-day programs. Importantly, all courses will also be delivered in Bahasa Indonesia, ensuring accessibility and resonance with the local community.
In addition to this collaboration, Oceans 5 has also maintained its valuable partnership with the University of Mataram. By working closely together, both institutions are set to enhance educational standards and promote sustainable practices among aspiring divers and marine enthusiasts.
The newly introduced conservation courses are crafted not only for those seeking academic enrichment but also for travelers looking to combine holiday relaxation with a meaningful dive into marine conservation. Whether you have a day to spare or a week to explore, these courses provide the perfect opportunity to learn about the importance of preserving our marine ecosystems while enjoying the stunning underwater landscapes around Gili Air.
Oceans 5 Gili Air has always placed local citizens at the forefront of its mission. By offering these conservation courses, the center reaffirms its commitment to fostering local talent and giving community members the chance to grow within the company or develop entirely new career paths. Courses led by local experts not only enrich the learning experience but also strengthen community ties, fostering a shared responsibility for the marine environment.
In the coming months, Oceans 5 Gili Air will also witness several exciting internal developments aimed at further enhancing its service and educational offerings:
These strategic enhancements at Oceans 5 Gili Air are designed to offer more choices for divers of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced diver looking to deepen your conservation knowledge or a beginner eager to explore the underwater world, these new courses and internal improvements promise to elevate your diving experience.
Oceans 5 continues to lead the way by blending education with adventure, ensuring that every dive is not only a journey beneath the waves but also a step toward a more sustainable future for our oceans.
Oceans 5 Gili Air Celebrates 15 Years of Diving Excellence In April 2025, Oceans 5 Gili Air will proudly celebrate its 15th anniversary as a leading PADI Career Development Centre in Indonesia. For over a decade and a half, Oceans 5 has been committed to …