REVIEW · THAILAND

From Phi Phi: PADI Open Water Course *eLearning (2+ days)

★ 5.0 · 41 reviews From $475 Operated by Blue View Divers · Bookable on Viator
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Four ocean sessions around Phi Phi’s coral reefs are the heart of this PADI course, but the real work begins before you ever board the boat. You study online for 8 to 12 hours, practice skills in confined water, then head to the Marine Park with an instructor for your certification sessions.

I like the small class size, capped at 10, and the patient teaching style reported by customers who worked with Michael, Caroline, Jose, Becca, and Rebecca. I also like the practical schedule: two ocean sessions per day, lunch and fresh pineapple between them, and enough flexibility to spread the course over three days.

The main consideration is the commitment. At $475.80, plus the 800 THB National Park fee, this is not a casual half-day outing. You need to complete the online lessons, meet the medical requirements, and set aside two to three days on Phi Phi.

Key points to know before booking

From Phi Phi: PADI Open Water Course <em>eLearning (2+ days) – Key points to know before booking’ /></p> <ul> <li><strong>Four certification sessions in Phi Phi Marine Park:</strong> Training takes place around Phi Phi Leh and the Bida Islands, with coral, turtles, and possible shark sightings.</li> <li><strong>PADI eLearning comes first:</strong> Allow 8 to 12 hours before arrival for lessons and videos, either in the app or on a computer.</li> <li><strong>Small groups help with confidence:</strong> The maximum group size is 10, with an emphasis on patient instruction and safety.</li> <li><strong>Three days is the more relaxed plan:</strong> The listed duration is about two days and six hours, but the operator recommends spreading the course across three days.</li> <li><strong>A real training stage is included:</strong> You complete theory, swim tests, and confined-water skills before the open-water sessions.</li> <li><strong>Budget for the park charge:</strong> The 800 THB National Park fee is not included in the advertised price.</li> </ul> <h2>Learning the basics before you reach Phi Phi</h2> <p><img width="668" height="446" decoding="async" src=