SSI Try Scuba program: discover scuba diving with Gili Divers
What is the SSI Try Scuba program?
SSI (Scuba Schools International) developed the Try Scuba program as a fun, safe, and straightforward introduction to scuba diving. Designed for beginners with little or no previous experience, it allows you to discover the magical feeling of weightlessness and the serenity of being underwater without committing to a full certification course just yet.
Highlights of the SSI Try Scuba course with Gili Divers:
We offer two sessions per day : you can start 9 AM or 11:30 AM. It takes around 4 hours in total :
- Short theoretical briefing
- Supervised session in shallow water (pool or confined area)
- Break time between 5min and 20 min
- Open water dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters
- All gear provided,you just need to take your swimsuit, a bottle of water and a towel
Who can participate?
Almost anyone who meets a few basic requirements can join the Try Scuba program. Generally, participants should be in reasonably good health and comfortable in the water. While the minimum age can vary slightly by region, it’s typically around 10 years old for SSI programs. If you have any specific medical conditions, you should discuss them with our professional instructors beforehand to ensure it’s safe to dive.
What to expect on the day:
- Orientation and briefing
Before you hop into the water, one of our instructor will cover essential safety information, hand signals, and basic equipment use. You’ll learn how to breathe through a regulator and how to equalise pressure in your ears. - Equipment overview
We’ll help you gear up with a mask, fins, buoyancy control device (BCD), regulator, and wetsuit if needed. Your instructor will show you how each piece of equipment works and make sure everything fits properly. - Pool or confined water session
Most Try Scuba experiences start in a pool or a shallow, calm area of the ocean. Here at Gili Divers, we start in pool. This session helps you get comfortable breathing underwater while practicing simple skills like clearing your mask or recovering your regulator. - Optional open water dive
Once you’re confident, you may proceed to an open water dive, no deeper than 12 meters. This is where the real adventure begins ! You’ll encounter hawksbill turtles and green turtles, wrecks, vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even white tip and black tip sharks turtle around Gili Trawangan!
Is it safe?
Safety is our top priority at Gili Divers! You’ll be under the constant supervision of an SSI-certified instructor, who will ensure that you’re comfortable every step of the way. The Try Scuba program is carefully designed to focus on shallow depths, slow progression, and conscientious supervision.
Why Gili Trawangan?
Gili Trawangan offers warm waters, excellent visibility, and an incredible variety of marine life: ideal conditions for a first-time dive. You’ll feel at ease exploring shallow reef areas while surrounded by colorful fish, coral gardens, and a laid-back island vibe that’s hard to beat. Explore our dive sites here.
Next steps after Try Scuba
Loved your first underwater experience? You can take the next step toward becoming a certified diver by enrolling in the SSI Open Water Diver course. The skills and confidence you’ve gained from Try Scuba will make this transition seamless, and you can even receive credit for certain components you’ve already completed.
Ready to dive in?
The SSI Try Scuba program is your first access into the world of scuba diving. At Gili Divers, our professional instructors and welcoming environment ensure you’ll have a safe, fun, and memorable first dive. Feel free to contact us to learn more or book your session. Your underwater adventure is just a breath away!
Come explore the vibrant reefs of Gili Trawangan and take your first steps into the world of scuba diving with Gili Divers. We can’t wait to welcome you!
