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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.
Ocean Tribe is an official SSI Classified Diving Center, committed to making scuba diving accessible to everyone. Through our internship program, all instructors become SSI Classified Diver Instructors, ensuring they can train and assist individuals with physical disabilities and sensory disorders. Divemasters will do the SSI Classified Dive Buddy Program
The SSI Classified Diving program provides specialized training for individuals with limited mobility or sensory impairments. It also prepares certified dive buddies to assist these divers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable underwater experience. With adaptive training, students learn to dive alongside an SSI Classified Dive Buddy or an SSI Classified Diving Professional.
Participants who receive medical clearance start in a pool or confined water setting, mastering essential skills in a controlled environment. Once comfortable, they may progress to open-water diving, experiencing the freedom of exploring the ocean. There is multi-level certification depending on how much the diver is able to do for themselves and others.
About 16% of the world’s population lives with some form of physical disability, whether from birth, illness, or injury. Traditional scuba programs often overlook these individuals, but the SSI Classified Diving program breaks down barriers. It offers an opportunity to enjoy the thrill, adventure, and serenity of diving, proving that the ocean is for everyone.
Scuba diving provides a sense of weightlessness and freedom, making it an ideal activity for those with mobility challenges. At Ocean Tribe, we believe in creating equal opportunities for all divers. Our Certified Classified Diver Instructors are trained to provide personalized, adaptive support, ensuring every student feels safe and confident underwater.
Join us and discover a new world beneath the waves!
The Go-Pro dive equipment package concepts have been designed to recognise that dive professionals should have their own set of diving equipment.
Their ‘tools of the trade’ if you will.
When you have passed a Divemaster course or SSI Instructor Training Course, then you are a professional diver. This is a career.
It would be unreasonable to expect you to be a professional footballer without a pair of boots, so the same principle should apply to diving.
The internship dive equipment packages have been put together not just for our interns to save on price (although that is important).
As a professional diver you are expected to be a role model diver. Your students and divers should look at the equipment you wear. They should think you look professional. They should want to emulate you.
If you are wearing the same rental gear as them, it does not give you much scope for dive equipment sales (a potential revenue source for a dive pro).
As such even the basic dive internship equipment package is not all equipment used for rental, but rather upgrades that will set you aside as someone who should be taken seriously.
All of the dive internship equipment packages come from top scuba diving equipment manufacturers including Apeks Aqualung, Beaver Sports, Cressi, Oceanic, Hollis, Scubapro, Suunto, and Shearwater.
All participants in the Divemaster Career Internship or Dive Instructor Career Internship receive a complete equipment package included in their program. Already have your own gear? No problem! You can opt-out if needed.
This special pricing is available to all professional course participants, including:
Train with top-quality dive gear and gain the skills to become a confident, well-equipped dive professional.
BCD- Oceanic- Biolite or Ocean Pro
Regulator- 1st Stage/2nd Stage/Octo Oceanic- Alpha 8
Gauges, Compass, and Dive Computer– Oceanic- Veo 4.0 Navcon
Mask- Oceanic- Shadow
Snorkel– Oceanic-Ultra SD
Fins- Oceanic- Viper 2 Full foot
Reel- Beaver – 30m Finger
SMB- Beaver – with Valve
Slate- Beaver
Wetsuit- Ocean Tribe Deep Blue 3mm Shorty
This is the basic package included with dive internship packages
For purchase as an SSI Divemaster Course or SSI ITC Candidate, special price is $1399
BCD- Scubapro- Hydros Pro
Regulator- Scubapro- MK11/C370
Gauges– Scubapro- Compact 2
Compass– Beaver Sports- Wrist Compass
Dive Computer– Shearwater Peregrine
Mask- Scubapro – Solo
Snorkel– Scubapro – Spectra
Fins- Scubapro- Go Travel
Reel- Beaver – 30m Finger
SMB- Beaver – with Valve
Slate- Beaver
Wetsuit- Ocean Tribe Deep Blue 3mm Shorty
Boots- Deep Blue
To upgrade the internship package the cost is $500
For purchase as an SSI Divemaster Course or SSI ITC Candidate, special price is $1899
Contact us when booking and we can design your perfect equipment package based on your requirements. This can include: Wings, air integrated computers, different exposure options, and more.
Kenya beneath the waves and beyond the beach
Explore vibrant Indian Ocean reefs, unwind on Diani Beach and meet Kenya’s iconic wildlife on a private 4×4 safari—all in one carefully planned adventure.
Choose your adventure
Start with one of our most popular itineraries, then speak with Ocean Tribe about dates, accommodation, diving and any changes you would like to make.
Featured itinerary
Combine Diani’s tropical reefs with the vast red-earth landscapes and legendary wildlife of Tsavo East.
View this package
Beach + bush
Pair warm-water diving and beach time with an intimate wildlife experience at Ngutuni Sanctuary.
View this package
More inspiration
Discover how the coast, coral reefs and Kenya’s great wildlife destinations can become one unforgettable itinerary.
Explore the possibilitiesExplore colourful coral reefs, marine parks and fascinating wrecks in warm tropical water, with Diani Beach as your base.
Travel in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser with an experienced guide and search for elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos and more.
A seamless land-and-sea journey
The exact itinerary varies by package, but every journey is designed to make the transition from coast to safari simple.
Settle into the coast and prepare for your first dives.
Explore reefs and wrecks, then relax on the beach.
Travel inland by 4×4 with your professional safari guide.
Add destinations, extra dives or more beach time.
From coral gardens to open savannah
Choose a focused coast-and-safari escape or build a longer itinerary across several of Kenya’s most remarkable places.
Designed around you
Tell us how long you want to travel, where you would love to go and how much diving you want to include. Ocean Tribe can build a personalised trip for solo travellers, couples, families and dive groups.
Diani Beach, Kenya’s top coastal destination, is famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and endless adventure opportunities. Are you planning a relaxing getaway or an action-packed trip? Here are the most frequently asked questions about Diani Beach (FAQs)to help you plan your perfect vacation.
Diani Beach is on Kenya’s south coast, about 30 km (18 miles) south of Mombasa in Kwale County. It stretches along the Indian Ocean and is known for its stunning coastline, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere.
There are several ways to reach Diani Beach:
Yes, Diani Beach is considered one of Kenya’s safest destinations. However, always take basic precautions:
Absolutely! Diani Beach has warm, clear waters perfect for swimming. It is ideal for families due to the shallow shoreline and gentle waves make. But always be cautious of the tides.
Diani Beach is a watersports paradise! Popular activities include:
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons:
Avoid the rainy season from April – June when heavy rains can disrupt activities.
Diani offers accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays:
🏝️ Luxury: The Sands at Nomad, Almanara Villas, Swahili Beach Resort
🏝️ Mid-Range: Leopard Beach Resort, Baobab Beach Resort, The Zubeida
🏝️ Budget: Diani Backpackers, Pendo Villas, Soul Breeze Beach Resort
Diani has fantastic Swahili and seafood cuisine. Must-try dishes include:
🍛 Swahili Biriani – A rich, spiced rice and meat dish.
🐟 Grilled Seafood – Fresh fish, lobster, and calamari.
🥥 Coconut Beans & Chapati – A delicious vegetarian option.
🍢 Mishkaki – Spiced meat skewers.
Top restaurants to visit:
Yes! Diani Beach is close to several safari destinations:
Check out our Dive and Safari Packages
Visit Colobus Conservation, a rescue center dedicated to protecting endangered colobus monkeys. You’ll also spot vervet monkeys and Sykes monkeys around hotels and beachside areas.
The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency. Many places readily accept USD, EUR, and GBP; however, to ensure a smoother experience, it’s best to carry Kenyan Shillings (KES) for local purchases. Since smaller shops and markets may only take cash, having local currency on hand will make transactions easier and more convenient.
Most visitors need an eVisa, which can be applied for online at evisa.go.ke. Some nationalities qualify for visa-on-arrival services.
Diani Beach has good mobile coverage with Safaricom and Airtel. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free WiFi.
Shop for handcrafted Kenyan souvenirs such as:
🖼️ Maasai jewelry – Beaded necklaces and bracelets.
🦁 Wood carvings – Handmade sculptures of African wildlife.
👜 Kikoy & Kitenge fabrics – Traditional Swahili clothing.
🐚 Seashell crafts – Unique ocean-inspired décor.
Visit the Diani Beach Art Gallery or the local markets for authentic gifts.
Diani Beach is a tropical paradise offering relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for thrilling activities or a peaceful escape, you’ll find it all here.
Continue your training with confidence
Use this chart when enrolling on a new scuba diving course with Ocean Tribe. It compares commonly recognised certification levels from SSI, PADI, SDI, NAUI, RAID, CMAS and BSAC.
Find your current SSI level, then read across to see the closest commonly accepted rating from each agency. A direct equivalent will normally allow you to apply for the next appropriate course, subject to its other prerequisites.
Important: This chart is a practical guide, not an automatic crossover. Course content, logged-dive requirements and active-status rules can vary. Ocean Tribe will confirm your eligibility from your certification card and training history before enrolment.
SSI is the reference column. Swipe or scroll across on smaller tablets.
| SSI level | PADI | SDI | NAUI | RAID | CMAS | BSAC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Try Scuba / Basic Diver | Discover Scuba | Try Scuba / Shallow Water Diver | Scuba Diver (intro) | Recreational Diver (entry) | — | Discover Diver |
| Scuba DiverSupervised · ISO 24801-1 | PADI Scuba Diver | Supervised Diver | NAUI Scuba Diver | Recreational Diver | CMAS 1★ Diver¹ | Ocean Diver |
| Open Water DiverAutonomous · ISO 24801-2 | Open Water Diver | Open Water Scuba Diver | NAUI Scuba Diver | Open Water 20 | CMAS 1★ Diver¹ | Ocean Diver / Autonomous Diver¹ |
| Advanced Adventurer / AOWD | Advanced Open Water Diver | SDI Advanced Adventure | NAUI Advanced Scuba Diver | Advanced Open Water Diver | CMAS 2★ Diver² | Sports Diver |
| Diver Stress & Rescue | Rescue Diver | Rescue Diver | Rescue Scuba Diver | Rescue Diver | CMAS 2★ Diver² | Sports Diver |
| Dive Control Specialist / DivemasterDive leader · ISO 24801-3 | Divemaster | Divemaster | Divemaster | Divemaster | CMAS 3★ Diver³ | Dive Leader |
| Assistant InstructorInstructor level 1 · ISO 24802-1 | Assistant Instructor | Assistant Instructor | Assistant Instructor | Assistant Instructor | CMAS 1★ Instructor³ | Club Instructor |
| Open Water InstructorInstructor level 2 · ISO 24802-2 | Open Water Instructor | OW Scuba Dive Instructor | Scuba Instructor | Open Circuit Instructor | CMAS 2★ Instructor³ | Open Water Instructor |
| Master DiverNon-leadership recognition | Master Scuba Diver | Master Scuba Diver | Master Scuba Diver | Master Diver | CMAS 3★ Diver³ | Advanced Diver |
See where your current certification sits and identify the next suitable step in your diving education.
Continue training when travelling or changing agencies without unnecessarily repeating an equivalent course.
Compare leadership and instructor ratings as you work toward Divemaster or teaching-level qualifications.
Send Ocean Tribe a copy of your certification and your latest logged-dive details. We will help confirm the right next step.
If you’ve fallen in love with scuba diving, turning it into a career might feel like the next big step. Becoming a dive instructor is exciting, rewarding, and full of opportunities. But how long does it actually take?
The answer depends on your current certification level. If you’re brand new to diving, the full path takes longer. You’ll need to move through each course step by step. That means starting with Open Water Diver, progressing to Advanced, then Rescue Diver, and finally reaching Divemaster.
Each of these certifications takes time and experience. You also need to log a certain number of dives. For SSI, that number is 100 before you can begin your Instructor Training Course (ITC).
If you’re diving regularly and focused on your training, you could become an instructor in about six months to a year. Some people complete the journey faster by joining full-time internships or dedicated professional programs. Others take longer, especially if they’re diving part-time or only on holidays. The beauty of scuba is that it fits around your lifestyle.
Once you’re ready, the Instructor Training Course typically lasts around two weeks. During that time, you’ll learn how to teach, manage student divers, and follow international standards. You’ll be evaluated on both classroom knowledge and in-water performance. It’s intensive, but incredibly rewarding.
After passing the final instructor exam/evaluation, you’re qualified to teach new divers and issue certifications. This opens doors to working in dive resorts, liveaboards, training centers, and more. You’ll be part of a global community, sharing your passion and helping others experience the underwater world.
For most people, the journey to instructor level takes several months to a year. It depends on how often you dive, how quickly you progress, and how much time you can dedicate to training. But if you’re committed and enthusiastic, you’ll get there—and it’s absolutely worth the effort.
Set up your SSI digital learning account to start your scuba diving journey with SSI? The first step is creating the account. It’s fast, easy, and gives you instant access to SSI’s eLearning platform. Whether you’re signing up for your first course or continuing your diving education, everything begins with registration.
To get started, visit the official SSI registration page to set up your SSI digital learning account, using this direct affiliation link: https://my.divessi.com/register/ref/772107
This link ensures you’re registered with Ocean Tribe, an SSI-affiliated dive center that can assign your courses, track your progress, and certify you when you’re ready. It also gives you local support from experienced dive professionals. If you are registering with another dive centre then leave off the number on the end.
Once on the registration page, fill in your personal details. Use your full legal name, as it will appear on your certifications. Choose a strong password and remember your login details—you’ll use them throughout your training.
You’ll also be asked for your email and phone number. Make sure they’re accurate, as this is how your dive center will contact you about course updates and scheduling.
This step is important. You must upload a clear photo of yourself, similar to a passport photo. This image will appear on your digital certification card, so make sure it’s a good one. No sunglasses, hats, or distractions in the background.
Next, enter your complete home address. SSI requires this information to complete your profile and match your records across systems. Double-check everything before submitting.
Once your profile is complete and linked to Ocean Tribe, your instructor can register you for the right SSI course. You’ll then receive access to the digital learning materials through the MySSI app or website. You can start studying right away—at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.
Download the MySSI App for iPhone or iPad
Download the MySSI App for Android
Setting up your SSI digital learning is quick and simple, but it’s also the start of something exciting. With Ocean Tribe as your training partner, you’ll get expert guidance, world-class materials, and a seamless path to becoming a certified diver. So don’t wait—sign up, dive in, and explore a whole new world beneath the surface.
“Do I need to be able to swim to scuba dive? The answer isn’t a straightforward yes or no. It depends on the type of scuba diving experience you’re looking for.
If you want an Open Water Diver license or scuba certification, the answer is yes. Entry-level courses require swim and floating tests to earn certification. On the Open Water Diver course this is a 200m swim and a 10 minute tread or float.
The swim requirement isn’t about swimming while scuba diving. This ensures your safety and your group’s by helping you stay afloat if you need to remove your equipment, including your BCD.
However if you are looking at doing a Try Scuba experience. It is not 100% necessary to be able to swim. You will be under the direct supervision within arm’s reach of an SSI Instructor. Your Instructor will teach you to kick properly using fins in the water. The rest of the time you will be neutrally buoyant underwater. We still recommend being able to swim prior to trying or learning to scuba dive. This will enhance your confidence and the experience for you.
Ocean Tribe generally will do the scuba diving experience for non-swimmers. In a swimming pool or an other shallow water area. If you then decide you really want to continue with scuba diving. We have professional swimming instructors on staff who can run programs to aid you to learn to swim.
The exception to this rule is. Those people with disabilities taking part on one of our SSI Classified Diver level 3 diver programs. These divers will be taken through the water by 3 SSI dive professionals. The pros are experienced in working with divers with disabilities. Therefore, swimming for these participants is not required due to the added safety measures.
For people with disabilities who are wishing to scuba dive or try diving. Contact our SSI Instructor Trainer Mark who is a specialist in this field. You will be surprised how many “disabled”conditions are able to get in the water and experience the wonders of scuba diving.
Contact us at Ocean Tribe in Diani Beach today. For more information regarding swimming lessons. Or to book your Try Scuba Diving experience or Open Water or Scuba Diver course.
Scuba diving is an exciting and rewarding adventure, but it can be physically demanding. To stay safe, consider key factors before diving. Learn about the health and medical requirements for scuba diving here.
As a general rule it is a good idea to be able to swim before undertaking scuba diving activities. Find out more about swimming requirements for dive programs here.
Before scuba diving, you must complete a dive medical to determine if further assessment is needed. Below, you’ll find self-assessment questionnaires and physician forms to get started.
Complete the Try Diver Medical Statement & Questionnaire or Physician’s Approval to Dive to determine if you need a medical evaluation before scuba diving. Failing to complete this may prevent you from participating. If required, download and bring the Diver Medical Examiner’s Evaluation Form to your physician.
Review the Diver Medical Examiner’s Evaluation Form carefully. If you answer ‘yes’ to any health questions, you must take the completed form to your physician for medical clearance before starting your scuba diving course.
All participants training for an entry-level recreational diving certificate must be at least 10 years old. Divers under 18 require parental or guardian consent to begin training.
For divers under 12, please inform us before the course starts, as a private instructor will be required.
Certified divers are not required to take a medical again prior to diving in Kenya. But we do advise that you only dive in good physical health. Abstain from alcohol and drugs before diving. Check if you are on any medication that is a contradiction to diving.
A medical evaluation is required for continuing scuba education. Print and bring the Diver Medical Examiner’s Evaluation Form to your physician. Without this, you may not be allowed to participate in your scuba diving course.
All students on Dive Guide, Divemaster, Instructor Training Course, Specialty Instructor Course or Assistant Instructor Trainer course. Must get a Diver Medical Examiner’s Evaluation Form filled out by a physician and bring it to their course. Failure to do so will mean you cannot participate in the program. SSI Pros are also required to have an annual dive medical to prove they are still fit to dive.
Completing the medical questionnaire accurately and honestly is essential for your safety while scuba diving. Many people underestimate the impact of medical conditions on diving or are unaware of potential risks. Failing to disclose health issues or providing false information can lead to serious injury or even death during a dive. Thoroughly completing the medical form is vital to protect both the diver and their group.
If it becomes clear during the activity that the medical form was completed incorrectly, either by omission or false statements, we reserve the right to prohibit participation in any scuba diving or snorkeling activities. The trip leader aboard the boat will have full discretion in these decisions.
All medical forms and information sheets are available in PDF format. If you don’t have Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can download it for free from Adobe.
For more details, check out our Frequently Asked Questions page or learn more about the process of starting your scuba diving journey.
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against trip cancellations due to illness, poor weather, travel delays, itinerary changes, lost luggage, or legal costs. However, most travel insurance policies do not cover diving accidents or related treatment and evacuation. For comprehensive scuba diving coverage, we suggest a dedicated policy like those offered by Dive Assure.
Dive Assure provides insurance specifically designed for divers, including coverage for overnight experiences. Their rider covers incidents such as flight delays or cancellations leading to missed departures, vessel mechanical issues, medical inability to dive, inclement weather, and named storms or cyclones. If you’re traveling during cyclone season (December to April), we strongly advise purchasing insurance well in advance that includes force majeure coverage for natural disasters.
Not all travel insurance policies cover scuba diving or water activities, so it’s essential to review policy details carefully. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation, medical expenses, and vessel relocation costs are the financial responsibility of the customer.
For peace of mind, ensure your insurance covers all aspects of your diving adventure before your trip.
Scuba diving regulations recommend waiting at least 12 hours before flying or going to altitude after a single no-decompression dive. For multiple dives, the recommended wait time is at least 24 hours to ensure safety.
The SSI ITC schedule in Kenya. We try to arrange an ITC every couple of months and if demand is high enough then we can also run extra SSI ITCs on request. The SSI ITC schedule can also include an African safari on specific ITCs. For those of you who would like a shorter ITC in Kenya, or would like to enhance your IDC experience by completing the dry sections of the ITC in advance of arriving in Kenya then we also have the option of scuba dive online workshops and presentations.
Ocean Tribe · Professional Dive Training
SSI instructor training course dates
Swipe or scroll sideways to view all months.
| Course / Programme | Nov / Dec 2026 | March 2027 | May 2027 | July 2027 | September 2027 | October 2027* | Nov / Dec 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Instructor | 28–1 | 4–8 | 4–8 | 15–19 | 4–8 | 19–23 | 28–1 |
| ITC | 28–7 | 4–13 | 4–13 | 15–24 | 4–13 | 24–29 | 28–7 |
| IE | 8–9 | 14–15 | 14–15 | 25–26 | 14–15 | 30–31 | 8–9 |
| Specialty Instructor Training | 12–13 | 18–19 | 18–19 | 29–30 | 18–19 | 1–3 | 12–13 |
| Assistant Instructor Trainer | 28–7 | 4–13 | 4–13 | 15–24 | 4–13 | 19–29 | 28–7 |
ITC: Instructor Training Course · IE: Instructor Evaluation
* October session details to be confirmed.
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
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