Dive Training South East Asia

[henniz]

Hi All,

I am planning on doing my dive training in South East Asia in September / October this year and looking for feedback about the various dive centers around as there are many out there!

Pattaya seems to be a good spot and I hear there are a few good dive centres - anyone got any advise?

I would greatly appreciate any feedback if anyone has done dive training at all in South East Asia.

Thanks
Henry

 

[Ragnar]

How single are you and how good are you at separating drinking and diving? Pattaya is the beer bar capital of the world and you can barely exit the lobby of your hotel without meeting a girl. Phuket is a toned down version of that and then I'd say Puerto Galera Philippines would also be on the list as a tiny version of that but a very fun place with some excellent diving and instruction. There are MANY places you could go, but since you mentioned Pattaya I expect you are looking for someplace with some serious nightlife.

 

[henniz]

Hey Ragnar,

Thanks for your reply. I hear there are some good places in the Philippines as well. The reason I mention Pattaya as this was the first city I came across that has a few dive centres there and so far there is a mix of good and bad reviews.

Basically I want a dive centre that has a good reputation and offers solid training - yes of course a bit of nightlife would be great but I really will be there for the diving.

 

[Ragnar]

Ah ok, I take it this is for your initial certification? I put a friend through an introductory course at Asia divers in Puerto once and was very happy with the instructor. I did the course along with her so was right there and the guy was very knowledgeable, attentive and had actual teaching skills. Check them out.....

PADI Beginners Courses @ Asia Divers

You could do very well in a lot of places so since it's a vacation maybe pick which country you'd like to visit at least and go from there. Have you ever visited either of these? I will say Puerto is one of the coolest setups, no driving, short boat rides etc. It's definitely worth a visit, some very nice diving there. I have also done a lot of diving with Bod at Mermaid resort which is right next to Captain Gregs restaurant/hotel/dive center both of which are excellent resources in the area.

 

[DevonDiver]

Pattaya certainly has a reputation, but it isnt for the quality of scuba diving.

There are some well regarded dive centres there though.... but I could easily name 100 other asian destinations that have far better dive sites.

Koh Tao has a thriving diving scene... it is primarily focused on that. More of a bare-foot beach dweller, chill vibe than the blarring girlie bars of Pattaya. The diving is of decent quality and it is very cheap. The west coast of Thailand offers great diving, but most of the best diving is only attainable by liveaboard.

Malaysia has some good opportunities for training and the dive sites are world class... especially in the Sipidan/Mabul area. There are some decent schools there that cater/price towards the back-packer market. Not a place for girls and booze though.

Indonesia has great diving... Bali is a definite option... or you can be more adventurous and head towards one of other islands.

The Philippines is another great option. It is cheap, safe, the diving is absolutely world class... and there are 'top-side' activities to suit any taste. It's off the prime backpacker trail though - so it often overlooked.

 

[kathydee]

I was certified OW & AOW in Padangbai Bali Indonesia. It's a peaceful little oceanside town with plenty of beautiful diving and an assortment of dive shops and classes.

 

[Jo_Charman]

Hey Henry, I agree that Puerto Galera would be an excellent option for you. I lived there for 3 years and the diving is great for beginners through to the more advanced diver. You will have a good time with the night life too if you want. Would suggest one end of Sabang beach or the other not right in the middle if you want some sleep! There are many good operations there including Asia Divers, ABWonderdive, Atlantis, Club Mabuhay, Captain Greggs etc. The Philippines is often overlooked and I can't understand why - it is a great place and once people have visited they just keep coming back. Also for us English only speakers its great, everyone speaks English - thank you - I do try but...
Anyway if you need anymore info - more than happy to help - stuck in Manila these days....