Absolutely excited about diving into the PADI Open Water course but struggling with time constraints? Whether you're jetting off with friends, eager to maximize every moment together on Koh Tao, or planning a family adventure, we've got the perfect solution for you!
The PADI Referral system is your ticket to completing a significant part of your scuba training back home with your local PADI Dive Center, leaving you with more time to seize every second of your Koh Tao adventure for other exciting activities !
Structure of the PADI Open Water Course
The PADI Open Water course is structured into three main parts, spanning over three days:
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knowledge development: The knowledge development covers the principles and concepts that you need to know to dive safely and enjoyably. It involves self-study and classroom theory, if needed.
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Confined water training -Pool Session: On day 1, the confined water session allows you to learn and practice key scuba diving skills. You'll continue practicing until you feel confident with each skill.
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Open Water dives: Days 2 and 3 are dedicated to putting everything you've learned into practice. You'll have the opportunity to complete four dives, applying your newfound skills in an open water setting.
So, what exactly is the PADI Referral Course?
With this system, you can finish part or all of the first two parts of the Open Water Diver course before even arriving in Koh Tao. Your local PADI Dive Center and instructor will guide you through the Diving theory and confined water practical skills before your trip. Then, upon arrival, you can conclude the final section – the Open Water dives – in the warm and clear waters of Koh Tao.
In essence, Instead of spending your precious time on Koh Tao buried in self-study with your e-material, classroom theory, exams, and pool skills, you get to kickstart your diving adventure with the majority of your course already done. It's all about making the most of your time here!
With the foundational sections completed, you can focus on the real reason that brought you to Koh Tao. Join us at Coral Grand Divers on our local day trips to breeze through the remaining practical dives.
The significant advantage of using PADI's referral system is the flexibility it offers. Take your time to grasp the fundamentals at at your own rhythm, free from the stress of hurrying or overwhelming yourself with last-minute studying.
All you'll need to remember is to bring the standard Referral form signed by your local PADI dive instructor to Koh Tao, providing proof of the training you've completed to date, along with good vibes and smiles!
Unwrapping answers to the questions you might have!
How Long Can I Take Advantage of the Referral?
With PADI's Referral system, you've got up to 12 months to complete the course, from the last training section completion date. It's best to dive into the Open Water dives sooner while the theory and skills are still fresh in your mind though.
What if I didn't complete everything before arriving in Koh Tao?
No need to worry! Your local PADI dive center or instructor will fill out and sign off on the sections you completed with them on a standard Referral form. If time gets away from you, and you couldn't finish 100% of your theory and/or a few skills in the confined pool session, our instructors will seamlessly take care of each section as needed.
Will Completing the PADI Online eLearning only Save Me a Day in Koh Tao?
If you choose to purchase the PADI eLearning yourself and plan to complete the pool/confined water practical here, the course duration will remain 3 days. However, completing 100% of the eLearning prior to arrival allows you more time to focus on the Confined water practical/Pool session, potentially saving you an hour or two on day one!
What if I cannot complete all four required Open Water dives for certification in Koh Tao?
If, for any reason, you're unable to complete the 4 required Open Water Training dives in Koh Tao, don't worry. Each Open Water dive you complete will be logged in your standard Referral form, giving you the flexibility to finish the remaining ones at any other PADI Dive center within a 12-month period.
If the PADI Open Water Referral sounds like an appealing option for you, contact us!
