For over 18 years, Sander Buis has called the Gili Islands home. What began as a journey as a PADI Dive Instructor on Gili Trawangan has evolved into something extraordinary: Sander is now the owner of Oceans 5, one of the most recognized SSI Instructor Training Centers in the region. Through years of dedication, innovation, and passion, Sander has firmly established himself not only as a pioneer in the diving community but also as a mentor for aspiring dive professionals.
When Sander first arrived on the Gili Islands nearly two decades ago, the area was just beginning to flourish as a diving destination. Working tirelessly as a dive instructor, Sander quickly gained a reputation for his teaching skills and deep understanding of SSI standards. His dedication to safety, quality, and marine conservation set him apart.
In 2010, Sander turned his vision into reality by foundingย Oceans 5 Dive Resortย on the serene island of Gili Air, Lombok. Oceans 5 began as a PADI Dive Resort, offering beginner to advanced diving courses. Within just a year, it achieved the status of a PADI IDC centerโa testament to Sander’s relentless focus on quality teaching and high standards. By 2026, Oceans 5 had reached new heights, becoming a SSI Instructor Training Centre, a distinction awarded only to the best SSI centers worldwide.
Sanderโs personal journey in diving didnโt stop at running a successful dive center. Always striving for excellence, he achieved the prestigious title of SSI Instructor Trainer in 2026. This qualification represents the pinnacle of the diving industry, enabling him to train and mentor the next generation of SSI Instructors.
Sanderโs path to becoming an Instructor Trainer was fueled by his passion for diving, his extensive global diving experience, and his in-depth knowledge of SSI systems. These qualities combined make him an exceptional educator, capable of guiding his candidates not just through the SSI Instructor Examination (IE) but toward thriving careers in the dive industry.
Sanderโs leadership is reflected in the success and reputation of Oceans 5. Nestled on the tranquil shores of Gili Air, Oceans 5 offers a professional yet welcoming environment for divers of all levels. The dive center boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious classrooms, modern training pools, and top-quality diving equipment.
However, what truly sets Oceans 5 apart is Sanderโs philosophy ofย quality over quantity. His SSI ITC programs are limited to small groups of candidates, allowing for personalized attention and a family-like atmosphere. This approach ensures that every candidate receives the support and guidance needed to excel.
Sanderโs unique teaching philosophy is what truly distinguishes him as an Instructor Trainer. Rather than focusing solely on helping candidates pass the SSI Instructor Examination, Sander emphasizes building confident, competent dive instructors. He understands that being a successful instructor goes beyond knowledgeโitโs about being able to handle real-world challenges, ensure safety, and inspire students.
During the SSI ITC, Sander takes a tailored approach to each candidate. He identifies their individual weaknesses and works with them to improve. Whether itโs mastering neutral buoyancy techniques, improving communication skills, or gaining confidence in leading dives, Sanderโs mentorship is transformative.
โItโs not about just passing the IE. Itโs about becoming an instructor who can lead with confidence, solve problems, and create unforgettable experiences for their students.โ โ Sander Buis
Sanderโs diving experience spans the globe, giving him a wealth of knowledge that he shares with his ITC candidates. From the vibrant reefs of Southeast Asia to the wrecks of Europe and the cold waters of the Arctic, Sanderโs extensive diving background enriches his teaching. His firsthand knowledge of diverse diving environments enables him to prepare his candidates for careers in any location, whether they choose to work in tropical waters or more challenging conditions.
One of the hallmarks of Sanderโs approach is his dedication to his candidatesโ success long after they complete their ITC. Many of Sanderโs graduates continue to seek his advice and guidance as they advance their careers in the diving industry.
Through his leadership at Oceans 5, Sander has also cultivated a thriving community of dive professionals. This network provides valuable opportunities for new instructors, including mentorship, job placements, and ongoing professional development.
Sanderโs passion for diving extends to marine conservation. Under his guidance, Oceans 5 has become a leader in environmental initiatives, hosting regular beach and underwater cleanups, partnering with organizations like the University of Mataram, and offering conservation-focused dive courses.
During the SSI ITC, Sander incorporates environmental awareness into the curriculum, ensuring that his candidates understand their role as stewards of the ocean. By promoting responsible diving practices and marine conservation, Sander inspires his candidates to be ambassadors for the underwater world.
Under Sanderโs guidance, the SSI Instructor Training Course at Oceans 5 stands out as one of the most comprehensive and rewarding programs in the region. Hereโs what candidates can expect:
At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we’re proud to introduce one of our most dedicated and inspiring team members: SSI Instructor Trainer Waz. With years of experience in the dive industry and a solid background in instructor development, Waz has guided countless divers in their journey from Divemaster to confident SSI Instructor.
What sets Waz apart is his ability to connect with each candidate on a personal level. His teaching style is calm, patient, and focused on building confidence. Whether youโre refining your demonstration skills or learning to apply SSI standards in real-world scenarios, Waz ensures that every part of the Instructor Training Course is clear, hands-on, and engaging.
Waz doesnโt just train instructors โ he shapes future ocean ambassadors. His focus on environmental awareness and responsible dive practices aligns perfectly with Oceans 5 Gili Airโs mission to protect and preserve the underwater world. As a mentor, he encourages all ITC candidates to teach with both confidence and conscience.
Working closely with fellow Instructor Trainer Sander, Waz helps deliver a high-quality, flexible SSI ITC that adapts to the needs of each individual. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, ITC groups are kept small to ensure every candidate receives the time, attention, and guidance they deserve.
When you join the SSI ITC Indonesia at Oceans 5, you donโt just gain a professional certification โ you gain a mentor, a role model, and a lifelong connection to someone who genuinely cares about your development as a dive professional.
Becoming a dive instructor is more than just earning a certificationโitโs a life-changing journey. With Sander and Waz as your mentor, youโll gain the skills, confidence, and inspiration to succeed in the diving industry and beyond.
Whether youโre looking to start your career as a SSI Instructor or take your skills to the next level, the SSI ITC at Oceans 5 Gili Air is the perfect place to begin. Join the growing community of dive professionals who have trained under Sander and Waz and experience the difference of learning from one of the best.
With Sander and Waz leading the way, Oceans 5 continues to set the standard for SSI Instructor Training Courses in the Gili Islands. Dive into your future with a mentor who truly cares about your success and the health of our oceans.
