Learn Any Time. Anywhere. Get the MySSI App
Unforgettable aquatic adventures for kids – Go underwater and discover the wonder of Snorkel, Scuba, Mermaid, and Freediving Explorer programs
The SSI Classified Diving program has been created to enable persons with disabilities who might not be able to earn full certifications the ability to dive and get certified with different safety parameters. Learn to work with disabled divers.
The SSI Scuba Diver course is a sub-rating of the SSI Open Water Diver course, which is one of the most popular entry-level scuba diving courses in the world.
If you are unsure about diving and want to take each certification step by step, or always want to dive under the supervision of an SSI pro, then the SSI Scuba Diver rating might be for you. It qualifies you to dive to 12m deep under supervision in conditions similar or better. The SSI Scuba Diver rating can be completed over a couple of days when done with the SSI Digital Learning option. You will spend a few hours in the pool getting comfortable with your dive skills then the 2 ocean dives are completed in one day on the boat.
And what better place to learn than Kenya? From the dive base in Diani, we have sheltered dive sites which are perfect for allowing beginners to get comfortable in the water and complete the skill training as well as a chance to take in the wonders of the thousands of different marine species on the coral reefs and exciting local dive sites such as wrecks.
The course is broken down into three segments, knowledge development, confined water (in a swimming pool) training and open water dives.
Ready to learn to dive in Diani Beach? Ocean Tribe’s SSI Scuba Diver course welcomes beginners, with patient instruction to help you build confidence in the pool and ocean.
You can join from age 10. Divers aged 10–14 earn a Junior Scuba Diver certification, with depth limits and supervision requirements appropriate to their age. From age 15, you can earn the full Scuba Diver certification.
You should be in generally good physical health and must complete a diver medical questionnaire before training. Depending on your answers, medical clearance from a doctor may be required. Our team will explain the paperwork before you begin.
You’ll need to tread water for 10 minutes. You can swim at your own pace—these are water-confidence checks, rather than speed tests.
No previous scuba diving experience is needed. Your Ocean Tribe instructor will guide you through the equipment and basic skills in the pool before progressing to your ocean training dives.
SSI Scuba Diver Digital Learning.
All dive and snorkel equipment, including air fills and weights.
Pool Training with an SSI Instructor.
Fruit, water, and snacks on the boat.
2 ocean dives with an SSI Instructor.
Transfers within Diani.
YOUR TRY DIVING ITINERARY
From your first scuba lesson to colourful coral gardens, here’s how your adventure unfolds.
BEFORE YOU GET IN
Get to know the basics of scuba diving with a short eLearning introduction.
Before you go in the water, complete a short eLearning section covering the knowledge briefing and an introduction to scuba diving and safety concepts. Your Instructor will build on this during your try diving experience.
BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE
Take your first breaths underwater and get comfortable with your scuba equipment.
Before heading into the ocean, you’ll learn basic scuba skills in a pool where you can stand up if needed, without surge or currents to distract you.
Your Ocean Tribe diving Instructor demonstrates each skill, then helps you practise until you’re comfortable. Once you feel comfortable using the scuba equipment, it’s time for a real dive.
MEET THE OCEAN
Explore vibrant coral gardens on your first two open water dives.
Your first two open water dives take you to a maximum depth of 12 metres. You’ll head out at 8:00am and return by around 12:30pm, exploring vibrant coral gardens and practising key skills in a real ocean setting.
Learn the basics. Find your confidence. Discover the reef.
Capture your dive experience by purchasing photos and videos, taken daily by our in-house photo team.
Buy Photos* Subject to availability
From turtles cruising the reef to tiny treasures hiding among the corals, every dive brings something different. Here are a few marine-life encounters to look out for around Diani.
Reef favourite
A highlight of Diani’s reefs. Watch for turtles gliding past or resting beneath coral ledges, especially at Galu.
Look in the crevices
Take a closer look at the reef’s nooks and crannies. You might spot a moray peeking out from its sheltered hiding place.
Reef resident
Striking stripes and fan-like fins make these reef fish a memorable sight. Enjoy watching them with plenty of space.
Tiny reef treasures
Slow down and look closely. These tiny sea slugs bring a splash of colour to the reef and reward a patient eye.
Seasonal · Oct–Mar
Keep an eye on the blue for a graceful passing manta. A seasonal possibility rather than an everyday reef encounter.
Seasonal · Oct–Mar
An unforgettable encounter if you’re lucky. These ocean giants may visit Diani’s waters during the seasonal window.
Wildlife, not a promise. Sightings vary with the dive site, season and ocean conditions and cannot be guaranteed. Give marine life space, never touch or chase animals, and keep clear of the coral.
The SSI Scuba Diver Course is an entry-level certification for beginners who want to explore the underwater world with a dive professional. You’ll learn essential scuba skills through theory, pool training, and open water dives. Once certified, you can dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters under professional supervision and upgrade to Open Water Diver later.
The course takes 2 days. It includes theory, pool sessions, and two open water dives in the Indian Ocean. You’ll learn the basics of scuba diving in a safe, supportive environment.
The Scuba Diver course is shorter and limits your depth to 12 meters, always with a professional. The Open Water course goes to 18 meters and allows you to dive independently with a buddy. You can upgrade from Scuba Diver to Open Water at any time.
Yes. You need to be comfortable in water and able to swim at least 200 meters. You’ll also do a 10-minute float or tread during your pool session.
Very safe. At Ocean Tribe, safety is our top priority. You’ll learn with certified SSI instructors and use high-quality equipment. Our training follows global standards and includes emergency skills and safety procedures.
You’ll dive on beautiful coral reefs just off Diani Beach. Expect colourful reef fish, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life. Every dive is unique and unforgettable.
You need to be at least 10 years old to join the SSI Scuba Diver course. We also offer the SSI Scuba Explorers program for kids aged 8 and up.
Your course includes all gear, digital learning materials, certification fees, and professional instruction. We don’t charge hidden extras. Just bring swimwear and a towel.
Yes! You can begin the digital learning from home using the MySSI app. That way, you can finish the theory before you arrive in Kenya and spend more time diving.
Booking is easy. Book online for discounted rates, message us on WhatsApp, or email info@oceantribe.co. We also offer local pickup for guests staying in Diani Beach.
Choose Your Ocean Adventure
Daily Dive Trips Explore Diani's vibrant reefs and unforgettable marine life. 
Try Diving Take your first breath underwater with our expert team. 
Learn to Dive Earn your internationally recognised certification in paradise. 
Advanced Courses Build your confidence, sharpen your skills and dive deeper. 
Ocean Tribe Dive Team
I will be back soon
