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Introduction Dive on Gili Air: SSI Basic Diver

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Take your first breaths underwater and discover scuba diving in the Gili Islandsโ€”no previous experience required.

Your SSI Basic Diver experience begins with a short theory session and skills practice in one of our two purpose-built training pools. Once you feel comfortable, you will complete one ocean dive under the direct supervision of an SSI instructor.

Theory + pool training + 1 ocean dive ยท Maximum depth 12 metres ยท IDR 1,500,000

Available every day. Start at 08:30 or 15:00. Minimum age 10.

Introduction Dive at a Glance

Program informationDetails
Official SSI programSSI Basic Diver
DurationTheory, pool training and one ocean dive
Start timesDaily at 08:30 and 15:00
Ocean dives1 supervised training dive
Maximum depthUp to 12 metres
Minimum age10 years
Previous experienceNot required
Group sizeMaximum 4 participants per instructor
PriceIDR 1,500,000
EquipmentIncluded
CertificationRecognition program; not an independent-diver certification
Course creditThe ocean dive may count toward SSI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver within 6 months

The Gili Matra Marine Park fee of IDR 100,000 is charged separately.

Discover Scuba Diving Safely

Trying scuba diving for the first time should feel excitingโ€”not rushed.

At Oceans 5, you do not go directly from the beach into deep water. You first learn how the equipment works and practise the essential skills in a controlled swimming-pool environment.

Your instructor stays close throughout the program and helps you progress at a pace that suits your comfort. Only when you are ready will you continue to the ocean.

The goal is not simply to get you underwater. We want your first dive to be safe, relaxed and memorable.

What Will You Learn?

The SSI Basic Diver program has three parts.

1. Introduction to Scuba Diving

Your instructor explains the basic principles of scuba diving, introduces the equipment and discusses the important safety procedures for your first dive.

You will learn about:

  • How scuba equipment allows you to breathe underwater
  • Equalising your ears during descent
  • Breathing slowly and continuously
  • Communicating with underwater hand signals
  • Staying close to your instructor
  • Protecting marine life through responsible behaviour

2. Skills in One of Our Training Pools

You will take your first breaths underwater in the shallow section of one of our two purpose-built training pools.

Your instructor demonstrates each skill before giving you time to practise. Skills include:

  • Inflating and deflating your buoyancy control device
  • Breathing comfortably underwater
  • Equalising your ears
  • Clearing water from your regulator
  • Recovering your regulator
  • Clearing water from your mask
  • Sharing air while stationary
  • Swimming underwater with scuba equipment
  • Using your breathing and equipment to control your position

If you need more time with a particular skill, your instructor will help you practise until you feel comfortable.

3. Your First Ocean Dive

After completing the pool training, you will travel by boat to a suitable beginner dive site around the Gili Islands.

Your SSI instructor supervises you directly throughout the dive. Depending on your comfort and the conditions, you may dive to a maximum depth of 12 metres.

There are no new exercises to surprise you in the ocean. The essential skills are introduced and practised in the pool so that your ocean dive can focus on controlled diving and discovering the underwater world.

You may encounter green or hawksbill turtles, clownfish, moray eels, pufferfish, blue sea stars and many colourful reef fish. Wildlife encounters can never be guaranteed, but every dive offers something new to discover.

Your Introduction Dive Experience

The exact schedule may change according to the selected start time, participant progress, boat planning and ocean conditions.

Step 1: Meet Your SSI Instructor

Complete the required paperwork and medical questionnaire, meet your instructor and receive an introduction to the program.

Step 2: Theory and Equipment

Learn how the equipment works, how pressure affects your ears and body, and how to communicate and behave safely underwater.

Step 3: Pool Training

Practise breathing, mask and regulator skills in shallow water before swimming around the pool with your scuba equipment.

Step 4: Ocean Dive

Board one of our dive boats and complete your first ocean dive under the direct supervision of your instructor.

Step 5: Continue Your Adventure

After the dive, your instructor can explain the next options if you want to continue toward SSI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certification.

Why Try Scuba Diving at Oceans 5?

Maximum Four Participants per Instructor

Small groups allow your instructor to stay close and give you personal attention. Children and younger participants are organised according to SSI age and supervision requirements.

Two Purpose-Built Training Pools

Oceans 5 has two large training pools with shallow sections and different depths. This gives you time to become comfortable before entering the ocean.

No Rushing

People respond differently to their first experience underwater. Some feel comfortable immediately; others need more time to relax or practise a skill. We want you to progress at the pace that is right for you.

Buoyancy and Responsible Diving from the Beginning

Even on your first dive, you can begin learning how breathing, body position and your BCD help you control your movement. Better control makes diving more enjoyable and reduces unnecessary contact with the reef.

Direct Supervision by an SSI Instructor

The SSI Basic Diver program is conducted by a qualified SSI Open Water Instructor. Your instructor remains close enough to assist you directly throughout the in-water training.

An Established SSI Instructor Training Center

Oceans 5 has introduced people to scuba diving on Gili Air since 2010. As an SSI Instructor Training Center, we teach everything from first diving experiences through to Divemaster and instructor-level training.

Conservation Is Part of Your First Dive

Oceans 5 operates inside the Gili Matra marine conservation area. We follow a no-touch philosophy and teach new divers to observe marine life without chasing, feeding or touching animals.

Short Boat Rides to Gili Island Dive Sites

Our boats depart directly from Oceans 5. Your instructor selects a suitable beginner site according to the conditions and participant comfort.

What Is Included?

  • SSI Basic Diver program registration
  • Short theory session
  • Scuba-equipment introduction
  • Pool training in one of our two purpose-built pools
  • One supervised ocean training dive
  • All required standard scuba equipment
  • Tank, weights and air fill
  • Boat transport to the dive site
  • Direct supervision by a professional SSI instructor
  • Small-group training with a maximum of four participants

Not Included

  • Gili Matra Marine Park fee: IDR 100,000
  • Accommodation, food and transport to Gili Air
  • Personal travel or diving insurance
  • SSI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certification
  • Lunch is not included, but plenty of excellent local restaurants and cafรฉs are just a few steps from the dive centre.
Introduction Diving Gili Islands | Oceans 5 Gili Air | Indonesia
Introduction Dive around the Gili Islands

Who Can Join?

No previous diving experience or certification is required. To join the SSI Basic Diver program, you must:

  • Be at least 10 years old
  • Feel reasonably comfortable in the water
  • Complete the required SSI medical questionnaire
  • Be medically fit to dive
  • Be able to understand and follow the instructorโ€™s safety directions

You do not need to be a competitive swimmer, but basic water comfort is important.

If the medical questionnaire identifies a condition that may affect diving, you may need approval from a doctor before participating. Contact us before booking or travelling if you are unsure.

What Should You Bring?

Bring your swimwear, towel, reusable water bottle and reef-safe sun protection. We provide the scuba equipment required for the program.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, let us know before the program. Prescription masks may be available.

From Your First Dive to a Scuba Certification

The SSI Basic Diver program is an introductory recognition program. It does not certify you to dive independently with a buddy.

After completing the program, you may repeat a Basic Diver experience under the direct supervision of an SSI Open Water Instructor for up to six months, within the program limits and in conditions similar to your training.

If you decide to become a certified diver, the ocean training dive may count toward an SSI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver program when you continue within six months. For Open Water Diver credit, the dive must also meet SSIโ€™s minimum depth and duration requirements.

The SSI Open Water Diver course is the best next step if you want an internationally recognised certification that allows you to dive with a qualified buddy within the limits of your training.

Frequently Asked Questions โ€“ Introduction Dive at Oceans 5 Gili Air

1. What is an Introduction Dive?

An Introduction Dive is the perfect way to experience scuba diving for the very first time. No previous diving experience or certification is required. You’ll begin with a short theory session, followed by skills practice in one of our two large training pools before heading to the ocean with your instructor for your first underwater adventure.

2. Do I need to know how to swim?

You don’t need to be an excellent swimmer, but you should feel comfortable in the water and be in good general health. Throughout the entire programme, you’ll be under the direct supervision of an experienced SSI Instructor, who will guide you every step of the way.

3. Will I receive a scuba diving certification?

No. An Introduction Dive is not a certification course. It is designed to let you safely discover what scuba diving is like. If you decide you love diving, you can continue with the SSI Open Water Diver Course, and your experience may count towards your first certification, depending on the programme you complete.

4. What marine life can I expect to see during my Introduction Dive?

The Gili Islands are one of the best places in Indonesia for a first dive. During your ocean dive, there’s an excellent chance of seeing Green and Hawksbill turtles, colourful tropical fish, beautiful coral reefs, and many other fascinating marine creatures. Seeing turtles on your very first dive is a memory you’ll never forget!

5. Why should I choose Oceans 5 Gili Air for my first dive?

At Oceans 5, your safety and enjoyment come first. We keep our groups small, with a maximum of four students per instructor, ensuring you receive plenty of personal attention. With two spacious training pools, high-quality equipment, experienced SSI instructors, and over 16 years of introducing people to scuba diving on Gili Air, you’ll be in safe hands from the moment you take your first breath underwater.

Introduction dive pricing

  • Duration: 1 day

  • Dives: 1 pool session and 1 dive

  • Price: IDR 1.500.000

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