BOOK DIVING NOW
LEARNING CENTRE
Call Us +254700934854
Home Blog Page 2

Why You Should Get Scuba Dive Experience—Not Just More Certs

Get dive experience

Scuba diving is an incredible journey. From your first breath underwater to exploring deep reefs and wrecks, there’s always something new to discover. But many new divers rush from one course to the next, chasing certification after certification. If you truly want to grow as a diver, the best thing you can do is get scuba dive experience, not just collect cards.

Courses Teach, but Experience Builds Confidence

There’s no doubt that scuba courses are important. They introduce you to new skills and expand your diving knowledge. But those skills only become second nature through repetition. A course can teach you how to navigate or manage buoyancy—but unless you apply that knowledge in real-world dives, it won’t stick.

The more you dive, the more confident and capable you become. Experience helps you fine-tune your weight, improve air consumption, and stay calm in unfamiliar situations.

Your Dive Log Tells the Real Story

Dive logs aren’t just paperwork. They show your progress, track your skills, and prove your experience. Many advanced dive sites and excursions require a minimum number of logged dives. Without proof of your experience, you could miss out on wreck dives, deep dives, or strong current adventures.

Operators and instructors often review your logbook before taking you on more challenging dives. A diver with 50+ real-world dives in different environments is often far more prepared than someone with multiple certifications but little actual time underwater.

Being a Better Buddy Starts with Experience

When you get scuba dive experience, you become a better dive buddy. You learn how to spot problems before they escalate. You know how to react calmly if something goes wrong. You become more aware of your surroundings and your team.

Good dive buddies make every dive safer and more enjoyable—for themselves and everyone around them.

Don’t Rush—Dive More Between Courses

There’s nothing wrong with taking new courses. But each one should be backed by solid diving experience. Take time between certifications to practice your skills, explore different dive sites, and enjoy diving for fun.

Dive clubs, local trips, and shore dives are great ways to build your log. The more dives you log, the more meaningful each future certification will be.

Get Scuba Dive Experience and Enjoy the Journey

Scuba diving isn’t a race. It’s not about how many cards you hold. It’s about how comfortable and capable you feel underwater. To get there, you need to get scuba dive experience, not just pass exams.

Take your time. Log your dives. Learn by doing. You’ll grow into a safer, more confident diver—and you’ll enjoy the underwater world even more.

Why You Should Be CPR and First Aid Qualified

React right car and first aid course

Why you should be CPR and first aid qualified is simple—being prepared can save lives. Whether you’re at home, travelling, or diving, knowing how to respond in an emergency makes all the difference. These aren’t just helpful skills. They’re essential for everyone.

React Right Makes It Easy to Learn

React Right is an internationally recognised course that teaches you how to handle real-life emergencies. It’s clear, practical, and hands-on. You’ll learn how to assess a scene, perform CPR, use an AED, and deliver first aid. You’ll also cover how to stay calm, make smart decisions, and act quickly when every second counts.

This course is for everyone. You don’t need to be a diver to take it. But if you are, the benefits go even further.

Essential for Divers and Future Rescue Divers

Diving accidents can happen fast. Panic, equipment failure, or a sudden illness underwater requires a quick and confident response. React Right prepares you to handle those moments. It also includes oxygen administration—a critical skill for treating diving-related injuries.

If you’re planning to take the SSI Diver Stress & Rescue course, CPR and first aid training is a must. It’s a required prerequisite. Without it, you can’t begin the rescue course. By completing React Right, you check that box and gain real skills that could save a diver’s life.

You Can Help—Anywhere, Anytime

These skills don’t just apply on dive boats. They travel with you. At work, at home, or in the street, you might be the first person able to help. You could save a friend, a family member, or even a stranger. That confidence is priceless.

Start Your CPR & First Aid Course Today—Be the Difference

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Emergencies can happen without warning. But with the right training, you can act, help, and even save a life. Join the React Right course with Ocean Tribe and become someone who makes a difference when it matters most.

Ocean Tribe’s New Dive Boat in Diani Beach: Meet Indidiver Jones

indidiver jones dive boat

Ocean Tribe proudly introduces Indidiver Jones, the latest addition to our fleet of dive boats.Twin 90hp Mercury SeaPro 4-stroke engines power this 9.3-meter vessel, allowing it to reach Diani Beach’s dive sites swiftly and reliably.

Indidiver Jones comfortably accommodates up to 12 divers, ensuring ample space for gear and movement. Onboard amenities include secure storage lockers for personal belongings, emergency oxygen and a comprehensive first aid kit for safety, a dedicated camera table for underwater photographers, and dual ladders at the stern for easy water entry and exit.

Thanks to her enhanced capabilities, our dive boat now reaches further dive sites more efficiently than ever. As a result, you get more time in the water—exploring vibrant coral reefs and encountering the diverse marine life that makes Diani Beach so special.

Whether you’re starting a fun dive, working toward a certification course, or joining one of our dive safaris, Indidiver Jones provides a smooth, reliable, and comfortable platform from start to finish. Moreover, her spacious layout and well-thought-out features clearly reflect Ocean Tribe’s ongoing commitment to safety, quality, and unforgettable diving experiences.

Join us aboard Indidiver Jones and explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs that Diani Beach has to offer. We look forward to sharing this exciting new chapter with our diving community.

How to Access Your Dive Club Membership Card

Dive club membership card

Your digital dive club membership card is your gateway to exclusive benefits, including discounts on dive trips, equipment, courses, and even food and beverages at select local establishments like the Funky Monkey Bar & Restaurant. Here’s how you can access your Ocean Tribe Dive Club membership card through the MySSI app:


Step 1: Register for a MySSI Profile

If you haven’t already, start by creating your MySSI profile.

  • Visit the registration page: https://my.divessi.com/register/ref/772107
  • Fill in your personal details accurately to ensure seamless integration with your diving records.
  • When prompted, affiliate yourself with Ocean Tribe Diani as your primary training center.

Step 2: Download the MySSI App

The MySSI app is your comprehensive digital diving companion, offering features like digital certification cards, dive logs, and access to training materials.


Step 3: Sign In to the MySSI App

Once the app is installed:

  • Open the app and select the “Login” option.
  • Enter the credentials you used during the registration process.
  • Upon successful login, you’ll be directed to the app’s main dashboard.

Step 4: Access Your Club Membership Card

To view your Ocean Tribe Club Membership Card:

  1. Tap on the “More” icon located at the bottom right corner of the screen.
  2. Select the green “Cards” icon from the menu.
  3. Under the “SSI Recognition” section, locate the “Club Card” entry.
  4. Tap on it to view your digital membership card.

This card serves as proof of your membership and can be presented during club events, dive trips, and other affiliated activities.


Additional Tips

  • Stay Updated: Regularly check the app for updates on upcoming dive trips, training sessions, and club events.
  • Digital Dive Log: Utilize the app’s dive log feature to record and track your diving experiences.
  • Training Materials: Access a plethora of training resources to enhance your diving skills and knowledge.

Should you encounter any challenges or have questions about accessing your membership card, feel free to reach out to us or visit our dive center in Diani. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.

Happy Diving! 🐬🌴

For a visual walkthrough on accessing your SSI certification and recognition cards using the MySSI App, you might find the following video helpful:

Refer a Friend and Get 10% Off Your Next Activity

refer a friend

Been diving with Ocean Tribe before? Loved it? Now’s your chance to share the experience and get rewarded by referring your friends.

We’re excited to introduce our Refer a Friend Discount for all former Ocean Tribe customers!

Here’s How Refer a Friend Works

Tell your friends, family, or colleagues about Ocean Tribe. When they book their first dive or course with us and mention your name, you get 10% off your next activity at Ocean Tribe.

That’s it—no forms, no fuss. Just send the love, and we’ll send the discount.

Who Can Join?

Anyone who has dived with Ocean Tribe before. If you’ve done a course, a dive trip, or even a try dive with us, you qualify.

Your friend just needs to say your name when they book. Once their booking is confirmed, we’ll email or WhatsApp you your 10% voucher for your next dive, course, or trip.

Why Are We Doing This?

Word of mouth is powerful. Most of our new divers come to us because someone like you told them we were worth it.

So, we thought it’s time to say thank you.

You’ve helped us grow. Now we want to give something back.

Use It for Any Activity

Your referral discount is flexible. Use it on:

And yes—you can stack up multiple referrals. Refer three friends, and that’s 30% off waiting for you under the refer a friend conditions.

Dive Club Members Get Even More

Already part of the Ocean Tribe Dive Club? Great! Your referral discount stacks with your member benefits. That means even cheaper dives, exclusive deals, and priority access to special events.

Not a member yet? Ask us how to join and unlock a full calendar of fun, training, and rewards just for our diving family.

Let’s Dive Together Again- Refer a Friend

The reef is calling, and you already know what makes Diani magic. So why not bring a friend along and make new memories together?

Start spreading the word today, and we’ll see you underwater soon—with a little thank-you discount in hand.

How to Become a Marine Conservation Diver

marine conservation diver

Love the ocean? Want to do more than just enjoy it? Becoming a marine conservation diver is your chance to protect what you love and dive with purpose. At Ocean Tribe in Diani Beach, Kenya, we make it easy to turn your passion into action.

Dive for a Cause

Every time you go underwater, you’re witnessing a fragile world. Coral reefs, fish populations, and entire marine ecosystems face threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. But as a diver, you can help. You can learn how to make a difference and inspire others to do the same.

Get Started with SSI Ecology Courses

Ocean Tribe offers a full range of SSI Ecology specialty courses. These online and in-water programs teach you everything from identifying coral species to understanding shark behaviour. Here’s what you can explore:

You can complete most theory online, then join us in Diani for dives that bring it to life.

Join Clean-Ups and Reef Monitoring

At Ocean Tribe, we don’t just talk about conservation. We take action. We run regular underwater clean-ups, ghost net removals, and marine surveys. As a conservation diver, you can get involved in all of it.

You’ll learn how to dive safely while removing debris, avoid damaging coral, and log marine life sightings that contribute to real science. You can even work toward becoming a Reef Check surveyor or join our special conservation weeks.

Combine It with Your Dive Training

Already a certified diver? Add marine ecology specialties to your dive holiday. Just getting started? Bundle conservation courses with your Open Water DiverAdvanced Adventurer, or Divemaster internship.

We also run longer stay packages for students and travellers who want to get fully involved in ocean conservation while gaining certifications.

Why Kenya? Why Ocean Tribe?

Kenya’s south coast is full of marine biodiversity. You’ll see turtles, rays, reef sharks, and vibrant coral reefs—all while diving in warm waters with great visibility.

Ocean Tribe is proud to be a leading SSI training centre in Kenya. Our instructors are passionate about conservation. And our team actively contributes to protecting local marine ecosystems.

When you train with us, you’re not just another student. You’re part of the tribe.

Start Your Conservation Journey

Whether you’re on a gap year, changing careers, or just want to give back, Ocean Tribe can guide your path to becoming a marine conservation diver.

Get in touch today to plan your eco-dive trip, course bundle, or internship. The ocean needs more protectors. Why not be one of them?

Learn to Scuba Dive This May – The Best Time to Start

learn to scuba dive

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to learn to scuba dive, this is it. May in Diani Beach, Kenya, offers unbeatable value, quieter surroundings, and the chance to take your first breath underwater with one of the best dive teams on the coast. Here’s why you should take the plunge now.

10% Off the Open Water Diver Course

At Ocean Tribe, the SSI Open Water Diver course is just $499—and that already includes everything you need: digital learning materialsequipment rental, and expert instruction. But for the month of May, we’re giving you even more reason to start. Book now and get 10% off your course when you use the promo code LSDIVEC at checkout.

It’s the best price you’ll find to learn to scuba dive in a world-class location.

Diani Is Quiet—and Full of Great Deals

This time of year, Diani is peaceful and uncrowded. That means you’ll get more personal attention during your course and have the chance to snag excellent rates on accommodation. It’s the perfect setting to focus on your training and enjoy the beach at the same time.

Bundle Up and Save Even More

Want to get more from your dive training? We’re offering special bundles this May for students who want to expand their skills. Combine your Open Water course with top specialties like:

  • Nitrox
  • Perfect Buoyancy
  • Advanced Adventurer

These bundles give you added certifications, more dive time, and big savings—perfect if you want to build confidence quickly.

Already Certified? Keep Going

Already have your Open Water? No problem. This deal isn’t just for beginners. The 10% discount applies to all SSI courses booked in May, even if you plan to take them later in the year. Whether you’re thinking of Deep, Wreck, Rescue, or more, now’s the time to lock in your next adventure.

Extra Perks for Dive Club Members

Members of the Ocean Tribe Dive Club enjoy even better deals all year round. Combine your membership perks with the May discount and save big on all training courses, guided dives, and specialty packages.


There’s no better time to learn to scuba dive. May brings you calm beaches, quiet classes, and unbeatable offers on training. Join Ocean Tribe in Diani Beach and start your underwater journey today—at the best possible price.

How Much Should I Be Tipping in Kenya?

Tipping in Kenya

Planning a trip to Kenya? Amazing! You’ll meet friendly people and receive excellent service. But tipping customs might confuse you. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Let’s walk through exactly how much to tip in Kenya, and when.


Is Tipping in Kenya Expected?

No, tipping isn’t mandatory. However, it’s a common part of the culture—especially in tourism.

Most service workers earn low base salaries. That’s why your tip matters. It directly supports the people helping you enjoy your trip. While tipping is optional, it’s often expected and always appreciated.

So, if someone offers great service, go ahead and tip.


General Tipping Guidelines in Kenya

Now, let’s break it down by situation.

At Hotels and Lodges

You’ll meet porters, housekeepers, waiters, and more. Here’s how to tip:

  • Porters: Tip Ksh 100–200 per bag.
  • Housekeeping: Leave Ksh 200–500 per night.
  • Tip box: Many hotels have one at reception. Drop in Ksh 1,000–2,000 per night. It gets split among all staff.

This system ensures everyone benefits—front and back of house.

At Restaurants and Bars

When you eat out, tipping is easy.

  • Standard tip: Add about 10% to your bill.
  • Already included? Check for a service charge. If it’s there, tipping extra isn’t necessary—but still nice if service was great.

On Safari

Your guides and drivers work hard. They deserve a good tip.

  • Driver-guides: Tip $10–$20 USD per person, per day.
  • Spotters or trackers: Add $5–$10 if they’re part of your team.

You can give the tip in cash at the end of your safari.


Tipping While Scuba Diving in Kenya

Diving in Kenya? You’re in for a treat—warm waters, vibrant reefs, and dedicated crew.

But don’t forget your dive team. They do much more than guide you underwater. They keep you safe, carry gear, prep tanks, drive the boat, and manage logistics.

Who Should You Tip?

  • Instructors – They train, brief, and supervise you.
  • Divemasters – They guide dives and handle safety.
  • Boat crew – They manage equipment, tanks, and transport.

Every person plays a key role. So it’s best to tip fairly across the team.

How Much Should You Tip?

  • Per dive trip: Tip Ksh 500–1,000 per diver, per dive trip.
  • Dive packages: Tip 10–15% of the total package price.
  • Outstanding service? Tip more! It goes a long way.

How Do You Tip?

You’ve got two easy choices:

  1. Tip directly. Hand cash to your instructor or divemaster.
  2. Use the communal tip box. It’s often at the dive shop. All tips get split equally between instructors, divemasters, captains, and crew.

Want to be sure? Just ask the staff how they prefer it.


Quick Tips for Tipping

Let’s keep it practical:

  • Use Kenyan Shillings. Locals prefer it. However they won’t say no if you have USD (after 2013 notes)
  • Carry small bills. Makes tipping simpler.
  • Tip at the end. Especially for multi-day dives or safaris.

Final Thoughts

In Kenya, tipping isn’t just polite—it’s powerful. It shows gratitude, supports local workers, and builds goodwill. Whether you’re checking out of a lodge, finishing a dive, or leaving a restaurant, a small tip makes a big difference.

So go ahead. Tip with confidence—and enjoy your trip!

Can You Try Scuba Diving Without Certification in Kenya?

scuba diving for the first time

Thinking about trying scuba diving while visiting Kenya? Great news — You can go scuba diving without certification. Whether you’re relaxing in Diani Beach for a holiday or simply curious about life beneath the waves, there’s an easy, safe, and exciting way to dive in — even with no prior experience. From your very first breath underwater to spotting colourful reef fish, it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that anyone can enjoy.

Try Diving Without a Certification

You can join a Try Scuba or Basic Diver session with Ocean Tribe.  Scuba Schools International (SSI) offers these programs which are designed for total newcomers. No long study sessions. No pressure. Just pure fun and exploration under the guidance of a professional.

You’ll start with a short briefing to learn the basics—how to breathe, move, and stay safe. After that, your instructor will guide you on a shallow reef dive, where you’ll glide through warm, clear water and come face-to-face with colourful fish and vibrant corals.

What’s the Difference Between Try Scuba and Basic Diver?

Try Scuba is a pool only experience. It’s perfect if you want to see what diving feels like, in a short session.

Basic Diver is a bit more in-depth. It includes a short digital learning and two full dives to up to 12 meters deep. Even better—if you love it, this dive can count toward your Open Water Diver certification if you continue within six months.

It’s Safe, Fun, and Easy

Our team at Ocean Tribe takes your safety seriously. You’ll be diving in small groups with certified SSI professionals. We use high-quality equipment and choose calm, beginner-friendly dive sites to ensure you feel safe and comfortable from the start. Most importantly—you’ll have someone right by your side the whole time.

Why Kenya Is a Perfect Place to Start

Kenya offers the ideal conditions for first-time divers. The Indian Ocean is warm, the reefs are colourful, and the marine life is incredible. You might see butterflyfish, pufferfish, octopus, or even turtles—all on your very first dive.

Plus, Diani Beach is relaxed and beautiful. After your dive, you can chill under a palm tree or enjoy fresh seafood by the shore.


Ready to Try Scuba Diving in Kenya?

You don’t need a license. You don’t need experience. All you need is curiosity and the desire to explore something new.

Book a Try Scuba or Basic Diver session with Ocean Tribe today and discover what’s waiting just below the surface.

Take the Next Step: Become a Certified Diver

If you enjoy your first dive and feel ready for more, why stop there? You can sign up for the full SSI Open Water Diver course and become a certified scuba diver in just a few days. This course teaches you everything you need to dive confidently anywhere in the world. You’ll complete theory sessions, pool training, and four open water dives right here on Kenya’s beautiful reefs.

Many of our guests start with a Try Scuba or Basic Diver session and end up falling in love with diving. So if the ocean captures your heart, we’re here to help you dive deeper.

SSI Instructor Crossover Course

SSI Instructor Crossover Course

How Do I Crossover to SSI From PADI or Other Training Organisations?

Switching your professional affiliation to Scuba Schools International (SSI) is a smart move for many dive professionals. If you already hold an instructor rating with another recognised training agency, the SSI Instructor Crossover course provides a fast, effective way to join the SSI system without redoing everything you have already mastered.

What Is the SSI Instructor Crossover?

Ocean Tribe offers a streamlined Dive Professional Crossover program that respects your experience. The training introduces you to the SSI philosophy, systems, and standards while acknowledging your prior instructor knowledge. The main focus is helping you become confident and familiar with SSI’s teaching structure, not retraining you from scratch.

At Ocean Tribe, your crossover typically runs over two to four days, depending on your current status. After the academic and skills sessions, you will intern alongside experienced Ocean Tribe Instructors, assisting with real Open Water Diver students.

Who Can Join the Program?

If you are a certified instructor from WRSTC agencies like PADI, NAUI, CMAS, SDI, TDI/SDI, IANTD, or BSAC, you are eligible. Active and inactive instructors can join, provided their inactive period has not exceeded five years. If more than five years have passed, returning to active teaching status under SSI standards is necessary before crossing over. Alternatively you can take the full SSI Instructor Training Course.

Importantly, you must not be involved in any ongoing quality assurance proceedings with another agency. Candidates who have been expelled from other agencies cannot join the crossover. If you are under investigation or involved in a compliance issue, full disclosure to SSI is required before enrollment.

What You Need Before Starting

Before you begin, you must upload copies of your current instructor certifications and professional documents into the MySSI system. Registration for the appropriate SSI professional certifications is required, along with purchasing the relevant crossover materials.

To enroll, you must be at least 18 years old. A renewed or unrented instructor certification, current First Aid, CPR, and oxygen provider certification are essential. Additional equipment may be necessary, so it is best to contact Ocean Tribe directly to check requirements.

What You Will Learn

Throughout the Dive Professional Crossover, you will cover SSI’s educational philosophy, teaching standards, and operational procedures. Ocean Tribe’s trainers will guide you in safely conducting SSI programs, matching your previous qualifications. The program emphasizes knowledge development and familiarisation with the SSI system, building on your already proven dive professional skills.

Since SSI typically requires a stronger academic background and a broader set of in-water skills compared to many other agencies, the crossover will ensure you meet those standards. However, this is done in an enjoyable, supportive way, recognising and valuing your past training.

What Happens After the SSI Instructor Crossover Course?

Once you complete the crossover and pass the final exam, you will be eligible to attend a two-day Instructor Evaluation (IE). Successfully passing the IE finalizes your official status as an SSI Open Water Instructor.

Candidates coming from non-SSI agencies with instructor-level certifications or higher will be welcomed, but may need additional sessions depending on their previous experience and current knowledge levels.

How Much Does the Course Cost?

The SSI Instructor Crossover course costs total $999 which includes

  • SSI Instructor Crossover Course
  • SSI Instructor Evaluation
  • Instructor Digital Crewpack and SSI teaching wetnotes, SSI Professional Mask Strap, Dive Briefing & Dive Guide Evaluation Slate
  • SSI Professional Application Fee

Final Note

The SSI Instructor Crossover course at Ocean Tribe gives you a direct path to grow your dive career with one of the most globally connected and innovative training agencies. Your journey to becoming an SSI Instructor builds on the solid foundation you already have while opening doors to new teaching experiences around the world.

Learn to Dive Platinum Package

COURSE PACKAGES

SPECIAL OFFER
LEARN TO DIVE COMBO PACKAGES
Get extras on top of your Open Water Diver course for less
(All materials and fees included)

Open Water Course on its own (3 Days)- $499
Open Water & Perfect Buoyancy (4 Days)- $550 
Open Water &  Enriched Air Nitrox (3 Days)- $540
Open Water & Advanced Open Water (6 Days)- $750
Open Water + Enriched Air + Deep Diving + Navigation Diving (6 Days) - $750
Open Water & Sea Turtle Ecology (3 Days)- $540
Open Water & Any Ecology Specialty (3 Days) - $540
  • Get better buoyancy and your first specialty diver rating
  • Get certified to use Nitrox as well as learn to dive
  • Get your Open Water and Advanced courses
  • Do full Advanced Packages once you have learned to dive
FIND OUT MORE
close-link
Mark

Mark

Ocean Tribe Dive Team

I will be back soon

Mark
Hi there! I will be delighted to assist you with your diving enquiry. How can I help you today?
WhatsApp Chat with Us