Read the reef. See a living city.
Learn to recognise coral forms, understand how reefs work and turn every dive into a richer exploration of one of the ocean’s most important ecosystems.
Every colony has a story.
Healthy coral reefs feel magical because they are busy, complex and alive. Coral Identification gives you the language to recognise what you are seeing and understand why different forms thrive in different parts of the reef.
It is ideal for divers, snorkellers, photographers, students and anyone who wants to get more from time spent over a coral reef.
Six clues to coral identity.
Move from the living animal and its symbiotic partners to growth forms, habitats, reef health and conservation.
Animal, plant or rock?
Meet the tiny coral polyp and understand how a colony grows.
Hard & soft corals
Learn the major differences and the visible clues that separate them.
Growth forms
Recognise branching, massive, plate, encrusting and other reef shapes.
Life in partnership
Discover the coral–algae relationship that powers reef building.
Habitat & reef zones
Connect light, depth, water movement and location with coral form.
Health & conservation
Spot stress and bleaching, then learn how divers can reduce impact.
Press play. Protect more.
Start with the conservation video included on the course page, then take a look at the Diani reefs you can explore with Ocean Tribe.
Blue Oceans: Dealing with the Underwater World
Explore how thoughtful choices above and below the surface can help protect coral reefs.
Dive Diani with Ocean Tribe
See the warm-water reef environment where your new identification skills can come alive.
Learn it. Then map the reef.
Certified divers can add an ocean dive and practise identifying coral forms with the Ocean Tribe team.
- Open Water Diver certification required for the dive
- May be combined with an Open Water Diver course
- Planned around conditions and suitable reef sites
Everything you need to arrive ready.
Who can join?
The classroom specialty is open to anyone with an interest in coral reefs. Minimum age is 10.
What is included?
- SSI digital learning
- All training materials
- Transfers within Diani
- SSI specialty certification on completion
What to bring
- Water bottle and sun protection
- Swimsuit and towel if adding a dive
- A camera or waterproof slate
Coral course FAQs
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No. Anyone with an interest can join the classroom specialty. Open Water Diver certification is only required for the optional dive.
Do I need to memorise Latin names?
No. The goal is practical recognition and a better understanding of coral forms, habitats and reef health—not a vocabulary test.
Is this useful for snorkellers and photographers?
Yes. Better identification makes surface exploration richer and helps photographers understand their subjects and backgrounds responsibly.
How do I check availability?
The specialty is offered daily. Check the online calendar or contact Ocean Tribe by WhatsApp or phone for live availability.
Ready to read the reef?
Start the SSI Coral Identification Specialty in Diani Beach and discover a living coral city full of forms, relationships and stories.
