Bali: 3-Days PADI Open Water Diving Course

If you’re dreaming of exploring Bali’s underwater world and earning your official scuba certification in just three days, this PADI Open Water course might be just what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and while we haven’t personally taken the plunge, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and thoughtful design make it stand out as a top choice for beginner divers and adventure seekers alike.

What we love most about this course is its well-organized schedule—it balances classroom learning, pool practice, and real ocean conditions all in a manageable timeframe—and the quality of guides and instructors. The other highlight is the chance to snorkel and dive in breathtaking sites like the Blue Lagoon and Tulamben’s USAT Liberty wreck, known for their vibrant marine life.

A possible consideration is the cost, which at $409 per person might seem a bit steep for some travelers, especially when you add extra charges for remote pickup areas. But when you weigh that against the all-inclusive package—gear, boat trips, certification, and great locations—it becomes quite good value for those wanting a professional, safe, and fun diving experience.

This course is best suited for adventurous travelers aged 10 and up who want a quick but thorough introduction to scuba diving. It’s an excellent option if you prefer a small group environment (limited to four participants), ensuring personalized attention, and if you appreciate having your equipment washed, stored, and ready to go.

Key Points

• Professional instruction with experienced guides ensures safety and confidence in the water
• Beautiful dive sites like the Blue Lagoon and Tulamben wreck offer vibrant marine life and memorable experiences
• All-in-one value including gear rental, entry fees, boat trips, and certification makes it a convenient package
• Small group sizes (up to four participants) guarantee personalized attention
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Comprehensive learning combines theory, pool skills, and real ocean experience within three days

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Course Special?

Diving in Bali is a treat, and this course makes it accessible for nearly anyone interested in starting their underwater journey. The fact that you can earn your certification in just three days means you can quickly add diving to your Bali adventures without a lengthy commitment. It’s designed for beginners, so even those with no prior experience will find it approachable.

The most impressive aspect of this experience is the combination of quality instruction and stunning locations. Reviews highlight that guides like Eka, Ketut, and Ari are responsible, caring, and patient—some even quote how they made the experience fun and safe. One reviewer mentions, “Eka was very kind, patient, and informative which made the course very fun and relaxing.” That kind of personalized attention makes a big difference in a new activity like this.

The Itinerary: From Classroom to Coral Reefs

Day One: After arriving at the dive center, you’ll start with paperwork, which might sound dull but is essential for safety and legal reasons. Expect to watch instructional videos, review knowledge, and take quizzes to ensure you understand the basics of scuba. The afternoon shifts to pool skills training, where you’ll practice breathing, regulator clearing, and mask removal under the watchful eye of your instructor. This part is crucial—practice makes perfect, and the calm pool environment helps build confidence before hitting the open water.

Day Two: Your adventure really begins in earnest. You’ll load up gear and hop into a boat heading to the Blue Lagoon at Padang Bai. Here, your first open water dives will take place, giving you a chance to test your skills in a real-world setting. From the reviews, you’ll likely enjoy the scenery and marine life, with one diver noting the “beautiful ocean life” and describing the experience as both a skill-building and sightseeing opportunity. Expect a break on the boat, where you can relax or swim in the lagoon. After the second dive, you’ll return to Padang Bai for lunch at Billabong Restaurant and head back to the dive center.

Day Three: This day takes you to Tulamben, famous for the USAT Liberty wreck—an iconic site full of marine life and history. You’ll complete your last two dives here, continuing your training and practice. Between dives, a hot lunch will keep your energy up. After your final session, you’ll pack up your equipment, get your certification, and enjoy that satisfying sense of achievement.

What’s Included & What You Should Budget For

The included items are comprehensive and designed to make your experience as smooth as possible: hotel transfers, all Marine Park entry fees, boat and porter’s fees, professional instruction, and all gear (which is washed and stored for your convenience). Plus, you get PADI e-learning materials, certification, and a towel if you ask.

Extras like GoPro camera rentals or towels are available if you wish, and you’ll want to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. For remote pickup areas like Uluwatu, expect an additional charge of around US$27 or IDR 350,000.

Transportation and Group Size

Pickup is included from key southern Bali areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian, with early morning shuttles between 07:00 and 07:45. The small group limit (just four participants) means you’ll receive personalized guidance, which many reviews emphasize as a significant benefit. Travelers have noted that the guides are “super experienced and friendly,” making the whole process enjoyable and stress-free.

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The Experience: What You’ll Feel and See

From the moment you step onto the boat, you’ll notice the professionalism of your guides and the promise of adventure. Expect clear instructions and plenty of reassurance, especially if this is your first time in the water. The ocean sites like Blue Lagoon and Tulamben are renowned for their colorful coral, abundant fish, and, in Tulamben’s case, a historic wreck that you can swim through and explore.

We loved the way reviews shared that guides like Ketut and Ari made sure everyone felt safe and engaged. One diver said, “He took good care of us and we felt very safe in the water,” which is exactly what you want when trying something new.

The Certification and What It Means for You

By completing this course, you’ll earn your PADI Open Water Diver certificate, opening the door to further underwater adventures worldwide. The certification process is thorough but accessible, with the guidance you need to feel confident in your newly acquired skills.

Most reviews mention the practical and engaging instruction—not just theory but hands-on practice that prepares you for real diving situations. Once certified, you’ll have the freedom to explore Bali’s underwater world independently and even take advanced courses.

Who Should Consider This Course?

This experience is perfect for beginners, families with older children (minimum age of 10), and anyone curious about the underwater world. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful introduction to diving, this is an excellent choice. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, which many reviewers find reassuring.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart or respiratory issues, wheelchair users, or those with certain health conditions. Also, participants should have at least 18 hours of rest before flying post-dive.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

At $409, this course provides excellent value given the scope—professional guides, all gear, multiple dives at prime sites, and certification included. While the price may seem high compared to casual snorkeling, it’s a fair price for the comprehensive, safe, and enjoyable introduction to scuba you receive.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning dive sites, and well-organized logistics. Many state that the experience exceeded their expectations and would confidently recommend it to friends.

This course is best for curious travelers who want to try diving in Bali’s famous reefs and wrecks without committing to a lengthy certification process. It’s ideal if you prefer small groups and personalized service.

FAQ

What does the course include? It includes hotel transfers, all Marine Park entry fees, boat and porter’s fees, lunch, refreshments, equipment rental, PADI e-learning materials, and certification.

How long does the course take? The entire experience spans three days, with each day balancing classroom time, pool skills, and ocean dives.

Do I need prior experience? No, this is designed for beginners, with instruction from experienced guides.

What locations are featured? The Blue Lagoon at Padang Bai and the Tulamben wreck are the main sites, known for their vibrant marine life and historical interest.

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from major south Bali areas is included, with early morning shuttles.

What about group size? Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring? Swimwear, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a towel if needed.

Is there an age limit? Participants must be at least 10 years old.

In the end, this Bali PADI Open Water course offers a well-rounded, safe, and memorable introduction to scuba diving—perfect for those eager to see Bali’s underwater treasures with expert guides and in a friendly environment. Whether it’s your first step into diving or a fun way to add a new skill to your Bali trip, this experience is a reliable choice that many travelers cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: