Complete Guide for Beginner Divers – Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Dive
Have you always dreamed of exploring the underwater world but don’t know where to start? No worries – scuba diving is easier than you think! This guide will tell you everything you need to know before your first dive, from equipment to training.
1. Do I need experience to learn how to dive?
No! Anyone can learn to dive. Most scuba courses, like the SDI or PADI Open Water Diver, are designed specifically for beginners. You don’t need any prior knowledge – just a desire for adventure!
2. What are the requirements to start?
- Minimum age: 10 years old for the Open Water course
- Health: Basic physical fitness and no serious respiratory or heart conditions
- Swimming skills: You must be able to swim 200 meters and float for 10 minutes
3. What equipment do I need?
As a beginner, you don’t need your own equipment – everything will be provided in a dive course. The most important scuba gear includes:
- Mask and snorkel: For clear vision and easy breathing at the surface
- Fins: To move efficiently through the water
- BCD (Buoyancy Control Device): Allows you to control your buoyancy
- Regulator: Lets you breathe underwater
- Dive computer: Monitors depth, dive time, and decompression
4. What can I expect on my first dive?
On your first dive, you will start with an instructor in shallow water or a swimming pool. You will learn:
- How to use your equipment
- How to breathe underwater
- How to control your balance
- Basic safety exercises
After a little practice, you will move into deeper water and see your first fish and coral!
5. Is scuba diving safe?
Yes, scuba diving is a very safe sport when you follow the rules. In a certified course, you will learn all about safety procedures, including:
- How to check your air supply
- How to ascend properly
- How to dive with a buddy
6. Where is the best place to learn how to dive?
If you want to learn to dive, Koh Chang is the perfect place! Why?
- Warm water: No thick wetsuits needed
- Clear visibility: Ideal for beginners
- Abundant marine life: From colorful fish to fascinating wrecks like the HTMS Chang
7. How long does a dive course take?
The SDI / PADI Open Water Course usually takes 3 days:
- Day 1: Online theory and shallow water exercises
- Day 2: First open water dives
- Day 3: More dives and final certification
8. How much does a dive course cost?
Prices vary depending on the dive center. In Koh Chang, you can take your Open Water Course at a fair price. Check out our offers here!
9. Can I continue learning after my first course?
Yes! After completing the Open Water Course, you have several options:
- Take an Advanced Open Water Course or choose our OWD + AOWD package and save
- Book a Wreck or Night Dive adventure
- Dive longer with Nitrox (enriched air)
Conclusion
Scuba diving is an incredible experience and much easier than you think. With the right course, you will feel safe and enjoy the underwater world to the fullest!
Our Services Include
- Free shuttle service (White Sand Beach to Bang Bao).
- Complete SCUBA equipment: regulators, BCDs, wetsuits, tanks, and weights.
- Nitrox: Available for certified divers (conditions apply).
- Online Discount: 5% discount if you bring your own equipment. Discounts cannot be combined or multiplied.
- Meals onboard: lunch, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and seasonal fruits.
- Small groups (max. 5 divers per guide).
