Discover Scuba Diving Differently: The PADI Open Water Course at Oceans 5 Gili Air

The PADI Open Water Course at Oceans 5 Gili Air

PADI Open Water Course | Oceans 5 Gili Air

For many, the PADI Open Water Course is the first step toward exploring the magic of the underwater world. As one of the world’s most popular scuba diving certifications, the course equips aspiring divers with the knowledge and practical skills they need to safely enjoy diving to depths of 18 meters. But not all dive centers teach this course the same way. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, a PADI Career Development Centre located on the laid-back island of Gili Air in Indonesia, the Open Water experience stands out in more ways than one.

This article takes an objective look at what makes the PADI Open Water Course at Oceans 5 Gili Air unique compared to other dive shops, and why this dive center is often recommended by divers who want to learn scuba diving the right way.

The Standard PADI Open Water Course

To understand what sets Oceans 5 apart, it’s important to first look at what the standard PADI Open Water Course involves. Globally, the course is structured into three segments:

1. Knowledge Development (either online, via eLearning, or in a classroom)

2. Confined Water Dives (training dives in a pool or pool-like environment)

3. Open Water Dives (four dives in the ocean or another open water site)

Once completed, students receive their PADI Open Water certification, enabling them to dive independently with a buddy to 18 meters anywhere in the world.

Most dive shops conduct the course over 3 days. Students are usually placed in groups of 6 to 8, with one instructor handling all academic sessions and dives. Many shops offer short, intensive versions of the course that allow students to complete all requirements quickly. While convenient for those on a tight schedule, this often comes at the expense of personalized attention, teaching quality, and long-term safety awareness.

What Makes Oceans 5 Gili Air Different?

Oceans 5 Gili Air follows the same PADI standards, but implements them in a more thorough, thoughtful, and student-centered way. Here are the core reasons why the experience differs:

1. Small Groups, Big Impact

At Oceans 5, Open Water courses are conducted in small groups, with a maximum of four students per instructor. This low student-to-instructor ratio ensures that every student receives personal guidance and feedback throughout their course. Skills are mastered at an individual pace, not rushed to meet a schedule.

In many other dive centers, students can get lost in large groups, especially if they struggle with particular skills or feel nervous underwater. At Oceans 5, instructors have the time and attention to help each diver build confidence step by step.

2. Spacious Facilities with Two Dedicated Pools

Oceans 5 has two dedicated swimming pools designed for diver training, both equipped with shallow and deep areas. This gives students the space and time to practice skills without being interrupted by other classes. Unlike crowded pools or improvised confined water sites used by some dive centers, Oceans 5 provides a calm, controlled environment perfect for first-time divers.

The dive center is also spacious and well-organized, with large classrooms, gear storage, rinse areas, and shaded spaces for debriefing or relaxing between dives.

3. Extra Time for Mastery and Comfort

Unlike some dive centers that rush through the course in 2.5 days, Oceans 5 schedules the Open Water Course over 3.5 to 4 days. This allows time for breaks, slower skill development, and extra review if needed. If a student needs more time to become comfortable underwater, the schedule is adjusted. Students are never forced to move forward until they feel ready.

This flexible, student-centered philosophy results in confident, skilled divers who are prepared to dive safely beyond their certification.

4. Emphasis on Buoyancy from Day One

One of the biggest issues new divers face is poor buoyancy control, often because it’s rushed through during training. Oceans 5 instructors teach buoyancy as a core skill from the start. Neutral buoyancy is integrated into every pool session and ocean dive, rather than being taught as an afterthought.

The result? Students who graduate with better air consumption, stronger underwater awareness, and a more enjoyable diving experience.

5. Multilingual and Experienced Instructors

Oceans 5 employs a diverse team of experienced instructors from around the world. Courses are available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Dutch, Spanish, and Indonesian. The instructor team regularly updates their skills under the guidance of in-house Course Directors and IDC Staff Instructors.

Every instructor at Oceans 5 follows the same safety-first, quality-driven philosophy: the course is complete only when the student is confident, competent, and happy.

6. On-Site Career Development Centre

Oceans 5 is the only PADI Career Development Centre (CDC) on Gili Air. This means the dive shop has been recognized by PADI for its excellence in professional-level training. While this doesn’t directly affect beginner Open Water students, it does mean the dive shop maintains top-tier teaching standards across all levels.

Open Water students are often inspired to continue their dive education, and many return to do their Advanced, Rescue, or even professional Divemaster training at the same center. Knowing that the instructors are trained to the highest PADI standards offers extra peace of mind for beginners.

7. Commitment to Conservation

Oceans 5 integrates conservation into every course. During the Open Water Course, students learn about the local marine environment, threats to coral reefs, and how divers can minimize their impact. Many students join the weekly beach cleanups hosted by Oceans 5 in front of the dive center.

Oceans 5 also partners with local and international conservation organizations and supports reef surveys by the University of Mataram. For students who want to dive with purpose, this philosophy adds another layer of meaning to their certification.

8. Location, Atmosphere, and Community

Gili Air is quieter than nearby Gili Trawangan but still has all the amenities a traveler might need. The vibe is laid-back, welcoming, and perfect for learning. Students often comment on how relaxed they feel both in and out of the water.

Oceans 5 also cultivates a community feeling. Students, interns, instructors, and locals often socialize together after dives, creating an inclusive atmosphere. Learning to dive here isn’t just about skills—it’s also about becoming part of a diving family.

9. Quality Equipment and Maintenance

Oceans 5 owns and maintains all its diving equipment, with an on-site service workshop and staff trained to repair and inspect gear. Students use properly fitted BCDs, wetsuits, and regulators that are regularly maintained to manufacturer specifications.

This focus on high-quality gear not only improves student safety and comfort but also sets a professional tone for the entire course.

10. Transparent, Honest Pricing

Unlike some shops that add hidden fees for materials, certification, or rental gear, Oceans 5 provides transparent course pricing. Everything needed for the course is included: materials, dive equipment, pool and open water sessions, certification, and dive insurance.

This honesty builds trust, especially for travelers who may be new to the world of diving and unsure what to expect.

Student Testimonials and Reviews

Past students consistently rate Oceans 5 highly for professionalism, friendliness, and quality instruction. Reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, and PADI’s own dive shop directory frequently highlight the difference students feel after training here.

Many mention the relaxed pace, personal attention, and confidence they gained throughout the course. Some say they arrived feeling unsure or nervous and left as confident divers ready for adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Oceans 5 for Their Open Water Course?

If you’re looking for the cheapest or fastest way to get certified, there are dozens of dive shops around the world that can help you tick that box. But if you want to learn scuba diving properly—in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment—Oceans 5 Gili Air is an excellent choice.

You’ll be trained by passionate instructors in small groups, with extra time to develop real confidence underwater. You’ll leave with not just a card in your wallet, but also a solid foundation for future diving and a connection to a community that truly cares about the ocean.

Choosing where to start your diving journey matters. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, it starts the right way.