SSI scuba diving certifications: from Try Scuba to Advanced Adventurer

Scuba diving is a fascinating activity that allows exploration of the underwater world safely. To ensure a safe and environmentally respectful practice, divers must follow a certified training path. Scuba Schools International (SSI) offers a wide range of globally recognised certifications. In this article, we detail the main SSI courses offered by Gili Divers, from Try Scuba to Advanced Adventurer.

1. Try Scuba

The Try Scuba program is an introductory experience designed for beginners wishing to discover diving without committing to full training. This experience typically occurs in a pool or confined water, at a maximum depth of 5 meters, before making an open water dive at a depth of 12 meters, under the direct supervision of an SSI-certified instructor. Participants learn how to use diving equipment, breathe underwater, and become comfortable in this new environment.

The primary goal is to allow participants to experience the unique sensations of scuba diving while respecting safety standards. Try Scuba does not lead to a certification.

2. SSI Basic Diver

The Basic Diver program is an intermediate step allowing beginners to expand their introductory experience. Accessible from the age of 10, this certification enables participants to perform supervised dives in open water up to 12 meters deep. It includes theoretical training and initial experience in confined or open water.

The entire Basic Diver program can be credited toward the Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver programs within six months, allowing participants to progress without repeating initial steps.

3. SSI Scuba Diver

The SSI Scuba Diver certification represents an intermediate step toward full Open Water Diver certification. Available from age 10, it allows divers to dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters accompanied by an SSI-certified professional.

This certification includes:

• Theoretical Training: Covering essential diving safety knowledge.
• Confined Water Training: To master key skills under direct supervision.
• Open Water Training: Consisting of at least two open water dives to apply acquired skills.

SSI Scuba Diver certification is ideal for those who wish to start diving quickly while maintaining professional supervision. This program covers approximately half of the Open Water Diver course, making it easy to upgrade later.

4. SSI Open Water Diver

The SSI Open Water Diver certification is the first globally recognized full certification. It allows autonomous diving with a buddy to a maximum depth of 18 meters.

This training includes three components:

• Theoretical Training: Divers learn fundamentals such as diving physics, air management, underwater communication, and essential safety rules.
• Confined Water Training: During pool or controlled environment sessions, divers practice key skills such as buoyancy control, mask clearing, air sharing, and equipment management.
• Open Water Training: The final stage involves at least four open water dives, applying skills learned in confined water in real conditions.

Open Water Diver certification is ideal for those who want to explore the underwater world independently, responsibly, and environmentally aware.

5. SSI Advanced Adventurer

After obtaining Open Water Diver certification, many divers wish to broaden their horizons and improve their skills. This is where the SSI Advanced Adventurer certification comes into play.

Unlike Open Water Diver, this certification doesn't deeply focus on one specialty but allows divers to explore various areas through five specialty dives chosen from SSI offerings, such as:

• Deep Diving (up to 30 meters)
• Underwater Navigation
• Night Diving
• Perfect Buoyancy
• Fish Identification
• Marine Ecology

Each specialty dive is preceded by theoretical training, helping divers grasp fundamental concepts. The goal is to help divers identify areas of interest for further specialised training.

Conclusion

SSI’s training path, from Try Scuba to Advanced Adventurer, allows divers to progressively build their skills and passion for scuba diving. At Gili Divers, we prioritise safety and environmental respect at every stage, offering diverse opportunities for exploration and learning.

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