Your lifetime of adventure begins here. Have the Confidence to Dive anywhere in the world. With PADI training materials, a balanced combination of skills, safety, and fun
The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) is the world’s leading scuba diving training organization. Founded in 1966, it offers a wide range of scuba certifications and professional courses, catering to recreational divers, instructors, and technical divers alike. With over 29 million certifications issued and more than 6,600 dive centers and resorts worldwide, PADI plays a vital role in promoting safe and enjoyable diving.
Key Aspects of PADI
1. Global Reach and Philosophy
- PADI’s motto is “The Way the World Learns to Dive”—focusing on making diving education accessible, safe, and enjoyable.
- Their modular teaching approach emphasizes mastery at the learner’s pace, allowing divers to build confidence step-by-step.
- PADI promotes environmental conservation through education programs such as Project AWARE, which focuses on protecting marine life and ecosystems.
2. Course Levels and Certifications
PADI offers courses suitable for different experience levels, from beginners to professionals:
- Entry-Level Courses:
- Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): A half-day introductory experience.
- Open Water Diver: Full certification for independent divers up to 18 meters (60 feet).
- Scuba Diver: A limited certification for diving up to 12 meters (40 feet) with a professional guide.
- Advanced Training:
- Advanced Open Water Diver: Expands skills with deep, navigation, and other specialty dives.
- Rescue Diver: Focuses on preventing and managing emergencies.
- Professional Training:
- Divemaster: The first level of professional certification to supervise dive activities.
- Instructor Development Course (IDC): Trains divers to become certified instructors.
- Technical Diving (TecRec):
- PADI also offers technical diving courses for deep dives beyond recreational limits (e.g., Tec 40/50/Trimix).
3. Specialty Courses
PADI offers a variety of specialized certifications to explore different aspects of diving:
- Wreck Diving
- Night Diving
- Underwater Photography
- Enriched Air (Nitrox)
- Deep Diving
These allow divers to pursue their interests and gain additional skills.
4. Environmental Programs
PADI has integrated environmental awareness into its courses and dive culture:
- Project AWARE: A global conservation movement to protect oceans and marine species.
- AWARE Specialty Courses: Focus on underwater conservation practices like Dive Against Debris.
- PADI Green Star Award: Recognizes dive centers and resorts that engage in eco-friendly practices.
5. Digital Learning and Innovation
PADI has embraced eLearning, offering divers the flexibility to complete theory sessions online before meeting with an instructor for practical training. Courses are available on the PADI app, and certified divers can access their PADI eCard for quick proof of certification.
6. Why PADI is Popular
- Globally recognized certifications: PADI’s Open Water Diver and other certifications are accepted everywhere.
- Flexible and modular training: Students can complete courses at their own pace, even across multiple locations.
- Professional standards and safety: PADI ensures high training standards through regular instructor and dive center assessments.
7. PADI and Scuba Sirens
For Scuba Sirens, aligning with PADI offers access to a trusted, internationally recognized curriculum. The variety of courses and specialties (like wreck diving in Subic or marine life-focused dives in Anilao) allows your business to cater to different customer interests, from beginners to seasoned divers looking for new challenges.
PADI’s ecosystem of recreational, technical, and professional courses ensures that your divers have room to grow, keeping them engaged and coming back for more experiences.
PADI Open Water Diver course
The most popular and trusted entry-level scuba certification in the world. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to dive independently with a buddy to a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet). Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Course Overview
1. Prerequisites:
- At least 10 years old for Junior Open Water Diver (max depth 12m/40ft)
- 15 years old or older for Open Water Diver
- Basic swimming ability: swim 200 meters (or 300 meters with mask, snorkel, and fins) and tread water for 10 minutes
- Medical clearance if necessary (some conditions require a doctor’s approval)
Course Structure
The course typically takes 10 days, though the duration can vary depending on location and pace. It’s divided into three main sections:
1. Knowledge Development (Theory) 7 Days Min
- Learn the fundamentals of scuba diving, such as underwater physics, equipment usage, and safe practices
- Can be completed online (PADI eLearning) or in a classroom setting
- Covers subjects like:
- Pressure and buoyancy
- Dive planning (no-decompression limits)
- Preventing and managing underwater problems
2. Confined Water Dives (Pool Training) 1 Day
- Typically a day of confined water training in the pool will either be done in Anilao, Puerto Galera or Makati Dive Pool. This practice for the core diving skills in a controlled environment is very important to prepare you for the open water dives.
- Essential skills include:
- Mask clearing
- Buoyancy control
- Air-sharing techniques (in case of an out-of-air emergency)
- Regulator recovery
- Develop confidence and muscle memory for safe diving
3. Open Water Dives (Practical Application) 2 Days
- Typically four open water dives in Anilao or Puerto Galera
- You’ll apply the skills learned in confined water under real conditions
- Instructors monitor you to ensure proper safety and technique
- Dives often take place at varying depths, allowing students to build comfort
What You’ll Learn
- Equipment assembly and care: Familiarity with scuba gear like BCDs, regulators, and dive computers
- Buddy system: Planning and executing dives with a partner
- Navigating underwater: Basic compass skills and natural navigation
- Emergency procedures: Handling low-air or equipment-related issues underwater
Certification Requirements
- Complete the theory sections (online quizzes and final exam)
- Demonstrate competence in confined water and open water dives
- Perform the 10-minute swim and float test
Certification Benefits
- Certification is valid for life: No need to renew it
- Can dive independently (with a buddy) to 18m/60ft
- Qualifies you to participate in Advanced Open Water courses and specialty dives (e.g., wreck, night, deep diving)
What’s Included in the Course?
- PADI materials (digital or print)
- Use of rental gear if needed
- Pool fees and boat fees (if applicable)
- Open water certification card upon completion
PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course
It is designed to build on the foundational skills learned in the Open Water Diver course and help divers gain more confidence, skills, and experience across different diving environments. It emphasizes learning by doing—allowing divers to try out new types of diving through a series of adventure dives.
Course Overview
Prerequisites
- Must be certified as a PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent certification from another recognized agency).
- Minimum age of 12 years (for Junior Advanced Open Water Diver, with some depth restrictions).
- Good physical health for diving activities.
Structure of the Course
The course includes five adventure dives, two of which are mandatory:
Deep Dive (mandatory):
- Dive to a maximum depth of 30 meters (100 feet) (or 21 meters/70 feet for junior divers).
- Learn to manage the effects of pressure and nitrogen, such as nitrogen narcosis and buoyancy control.
Underwater Navigation Dive (mandatory):
- Practice using a compass and natural navigation techniques to maintain orientation underwater.
- Learn about distance estimation, navigation patterns, and finding your way back to the exit point.
The remaining three dives are elective specialty dives, chosen based on the student’s interests or dive conditions at the training location.
Popular Adventure Dives
Here are some popular options for the three elective dives:
- Night Dive: Experience the ocean’s transformation after dark with the help of dive lights.
- Wreck Dive: Explore sunken ships, airplanes, or artificial reefs (ideal for Subic Wrecks).
- Peak Performance Buoyancy: Hone buoyancy skills for more control, reducing air consumption and avoiding damage to the reef.
- Drift Dive: Learn to ride ocean currents safely and efficiently.
- Underwater Photography/Videography: Capture marine life through cameras while following safe diving protocols.
- Enriched Air (Nitrox) Dive: Get a taste of diving with Nitrox, which allows for longer bottom times.
How the Course Works
- No written exam required—progress is assessed during the dives.
- Each dive begins with a briefing about the specific skills and safety considerations.
- Students complete underwater tasks under the supervision of a PADI Instructor.
Example Schedule (3 Days)
- Day 1: Knowledge review,
- Day 2:Deep Dive, and Navigation Dive
- Day 2:Three elective adventure dives
Certification and Depth Limits
- Upon completion, divers are certified as Advanced Open Water Divers.
- Certification allows for diving to a maximum depth of 30 meters (100 feet) (21m/70ft for junior divers).
- The course serves as a prerequisite for more advanced certifications like Rescue Diver or Divemaster.
Benefits of the Advanced Open Water Course
- Build confidence and broaden skills: Divers gain experience across various conditions and challenges.
- Enhance safety: With deeper understanding of navigation and diving at greater depths, divers feel more comfortable and prepared.
- Unlocks further dive opportunities: Advanced certification is often required for deep wrecks, drift dives, and technical dives.
- Keeps learning fun: No exams—just practical, in-water experience.
What’s Included?
- PADI materials (eLearning or manual).
- Five dives under the supervision of a PADI Instructor.
- Rental equipment (if needed).
- Certification card upon completion.
Why Take It with Scuba Sirens?
Locations like Puerto Galera and Anilao are perfect for this course, with plenty of diverse dive sites to match the adventure dives. For example, students can explore drift diving in Puerto Galera or wreck diving in Subic, adding an exciting and memorable twist to their training.
The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course not only improves skills but also opens up new adventures, encouraging divers to explore the underwater world with confidence.
PADI ReActivate™ Course
is a refresher program designed for certified divers who haven’t been diving for a while and want to update their skills and knowledge. It’s ideal for those looking to regain confidence before joining a dive trip, starting an advanced course, or exploring new environments. A pool-based session offers a controlled, stress-free environment to brush up on essential techniques.
Overview of PADI ReActivate in the Pool
Who Should Take This Course?
- Certified PADI Open Water Divers (or equivalent) who haven’t been diving in a while (typically 6–12 months or more).
- Divers planning to go on a trip or join advanced courses and want to feel more comfortable in the water.
- A great option if you’ve been away from diving but still remember the basics and just need a quick refresher.
Course Highlights
The PADI ReActivate course includes:
1. Knowledge Review (Optional eLearning Component)
- Available online or via the PADI app, the eLearning module lets you refresh theoretical knowledge at your own pace.
- Covers essential topics like:
- Dive planning and safety
- Buoyancy control
- Air management
- Problem prevention and handling
- Upon completion, divers receive a new digital certification card with the ReActivated date.
2. Pool Refresher Session
In a confined water environment (like a pool), divers practice key skills under the supervision of a PADI Instructor or Divemaster. This hands-on session focuses on:
- Gear setup and disassembly: Properly assembling, donning, and caring for dive equipment.
- Buoyancy control practice: Hovering, fin pivots, and using a BCD to maintain neutral buoyancy.
- Mask clearing: Relearning how to clear a mask if it floods underwater.
- Regulator retrieval and clearing: Recovering and clearing the regulator safely.
- Air-sharing procedures: Practicing buddy breathing with an alternate air source.
- Emergency ascents: Simulated Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascents (CESA).
- Basic underwater navigation: Refreshing compass use and natural navigation skills.
Why ReActivate in a Pool?
- Safe and controlled environment: No currents, waves, or environmental stressors.
- One-on-one guidance: Instructors can provide personalized feedback to address any hesitations.
- Convenience: A pool session can be completed in a few hours, making it ideal for those with tight schedules.
What’s Included in the ReActivate Course?
- eLearning access (optional but recommended).
- Use of dive equipment (if you don’t have your own gear).
- Supervised pool session with a certified PADI Instructor or Divemaster.
- Updated digital certification card reflecting the ReActivate date.
Course Duration
- 1-day program: Typically 2–3 hours for the pool session.
- The eLearning module can be completed before or after the pool refresher.
Why ReActivate with Scuba Sirens?
This course is perfect for divers staying in Metro Manila who may want to get back in the water comfortably before embarking on ocean dives. A pool-based ReActivate ensures participants feel relaxed and ready to enjoy their trip safely.
PADI ReActivate™ Course in Anilao
is an excellent way for certified divers to refresh their skills and regain confidence in both a confined water session (pool) and an open water dive. Anilao, known for its calm conditions and beautiful marine life, provides an ideal environment to combine skills practice with fun diving. The course is perfect for those who’ve been away from diving for a while and want to prepare for upcoming dives or advanced courses.
Overview of the PADI ReActivate in Anilao
Who Should Take This Course?
- Certified divers who haven’t been diving in 6 months or more and want to refresh their skills.
- Divers preparing for more challenging dives or advanced courses.
- Anyone who wants to feel comfortable and prepared before going on fun dives or liveaboards.
Course Highlights in Anilao
1. Knowledge Review (eLearning Module)
- Complete online theory using the PADI ReActivate eLearning tool before arriving in Anilao.
- Topics include:
- Dive planning and safety
- Proper buoyancy control
- Air consumption management
- Problem-solving techniques underwater
Once completed, divers receive an updated digital certification card with the ReActivated date.
2. Confined Water Session (Pool or Shallow Lagoon)
- The first part of the course is conducted in a pool or shallow water, offering a safe, controlled setting to refresh essential skills:
- Equipment setup and disassembly
- Mask clearing
- Regulator retrieval and air-sharing practice
- Neutral buoyancy drills like hovering and fin pivots
- Emergency ascent simulation (Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent or CESA)
This session helps divers feel comfortable with their equipment and techniques before heading into the open water.
3. Open Water Dive in Anilao
After the pool session, divers enjoy a guided open water dive at one of Anilao’s beautiful sites. The dive allows participants to practice:
- Basic underwater navigation using a compass or natural markers.
- Buoyancy control in a real-world setting to avoid disturbing marine life.
- Marine conservation practices, such as maintaining proper trim and avoiding contact with reefs.
Anilao offers easy access to stunning coral reefs and a variety of macro life—making the ReActivate session both educational and enjoyable.
What’s Included in the ReActivate Course?
- PADI eLearning access
- One confined water session (pool or shallow lagoon)
- One open water dive with a PADI Instructor
- Use of rental dive equipment (if needed)
- Updated digital certification card reflecting the ReActivate date
Why Choose Anilao for Your ReActivate Course?
- Calm and clear waters: Perfect for reintroducing yourself to diving in a stress-free environment.
- Diverse marine life: Enjoy the chance to spot rare creatures like nudibranchs, frogfish, and colorful coral reefs during your dive.
- Convenient for Manila-based travelers: Anilao is just a 2-3 hour drive from Metro Manila, making it ideal for a quick diving weekend.
- Combine with fun dives: After your ReActivate session, you can extend your stay and enjoy more dives at iconic sites like Sombrero Island or Cathedral Rock.
Course Duration
- 1 day: The course typically takes 4–6 hours, including both the confined water session and the open water dive.
- Flexible schedule: Complete the eLearning module at your convenience before arriving in Anilao.
Why ReActivate with Scuba Sirens in Anilao?
At Scuba Sirens, I provide a personalized refresher experience familiar with the conditions in Anilao. Whether you need help with equipment, buoyancy, or navigation, I assure you will feel comfortable and ready for more diving adventures.
PADI Master Scuba Diver™
is the highest non-professional, recreational certification within the PADI system. It recognizes experienced divers who have demonstrated both a high level of diving skills and diverse underwater experience. This certification is an excellent way to challenge yourself while exploring a wide variety of dive environments and specialties.
What is the PADI Master Scuba Diver Certification?
The Master Scuba Diver (MSD) rating is not a course by itself but rather a recognition of experience and skill mastery. It is awarded to divers who meet the following requirements:
Prerequisites
To qualify for the Master Scuba Diver rating, you must:
- Be at least 12 years old (for Junior MSD) or 15 years old (for standard MSD).
- Hold a PADI Rescue Diver certification (or equivalent from another organization).
- Log at least 50 dives.
- Complete 5 PADI Specialty Diver certifications (e.g., Enriched Air Nitrox, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver).
- Maintain good physical health for diving.
Path to Becoming a Master Scuba Diver
Rescue Diver Certification
- A prerequisite that focuses on emergency management, problem-solving, and diver rescue techniques.
Log 50 Dives
- Divers must gain real-world diving experience to qualify, ensuring they are comfortable in a variety of conditions.
Specialty Diver Certifications
- Five specialties are required, and these can be tailored to match your diving interests.
- Some popular specialties include:
- Deep Diver: Dive to 40 meters (130 feet).
- Wreck Diver: Learn to explore shipwrecks safely.
- Enriched Air (Nitrox): Extend bottom time with higher oxygen levels.
- Peak Performance Buoyancy: Master buoyancy control.
- Underwater Photography or Night Diving.
Why Pursue the Master Scuba Diver Rating?
- Recognition as an elite diver: Only a small percentage of recreational divers achieve this level.
- Versatile skill set: Develop expertise across multiple specialties.
- Better dive opportunities: Some advanced dives or locations require experience with deep or specialty diving.
- Personal challenge: Push yourself to become a more confident and self-reliant diver.
- Prerequisite for professional diving paths: It serves as an excellent foundation if you later decide to pursue the PADI Divemaster or Instructor certification.
Benefits of the Certification
- PADI Master Scuba Diver Card: Official recognition of your achievement.
- Special access to some dive sites: Certain wreck or deep dive sites may require an advanced level of certification or specialties.
- Opportunities to mentor less experienced divers: Share your knowledge and skills informally with others.
How Long Does it Take?
- The timeline depends on how quickly you accumulate 50 logged dives and complete the required specialties.
- It can be spread across multiple trips or completed over a focused few months if you plan dives regularly.
Why Take the Master Scuba Diver Journey with Scuba Sirens?
Locations like Subic for wreck diving, Anilao for macro photography, or Puerto Galera for drift diving offer the perfect settings to complete your specialty certifications. At Scuba Sirens, we’ll guide you through every step, from Rescue Diver training to specialty dives that align with your interests.
We offer custom dive packages to help you achieve your goals efficiently, ensuring every dive is both enjoyable and meaningful on your journey to becoming a PADI Master Scuba Diver.
PADI Rescue Diver Course
is a challenging and rewarding program designed to develop a diver’s ability to prevent and manage emergencies. It builds on the skills you’ve learned in earlier certifications, giving you the confidence to handle stressful situations for both yourself and other divers. The course includes theory, practical exercises, and realistic rescue scenarios, making it one of the most transformative experiences for recreational divers.
Course Overview
Who Should Take This Course?
- Certified Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent)
- Divers who want to enhance their safety skills and help others in emergencies
- Those planning to pursue the Divemaster or Master Scuba Diver certifications
Prerequisites
- PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent).
- Be at least 12 years old.
- Complete Emergency First Response (EFR) Primary and Secondary Care training within the last 24 months (or take it alongside the Rescue Diver course).
- Be in good physical health for diving activities.
Course Structure
The course consists of knowledge development, confined water exercises, and open water scenarios.
1. Knowledge Development
- eLearning or classroom sessions cover theory topics, including:
- Identifying diver stress
- Self-rescue techniques
- Recognizing and managing panic
- Emergency equipment use
- Organizing emergency action plans (EAP)
- You’ll complete knowledge reviews and quizzes to prepare for in-water practice.
2. Confined Water (Pool) Exercises
This section focuses on rescue skills in a controlled environment, giving you time to practice and build confidence:
- Self-rescue techniques (e.g., releasing weight belts, gear removal)
- Tired diver tows
- Panicked diver response
- Assisting unresponsive divers at the surface and underwater
- Rescue breathing in-water
- Exits: Helping unresponsive divers out of the water
- Simulated equipment malfunctions
3. Open Water Rescue Scenarios
In the open water session, you’ll apply everything you’ve learned in realistic scenarios. The instructor will set up simulated emergencies, which may involve:
- Rescuing a diver who is missing or unresponsive
- Surface rescues: Assisting panicked or injured divers
- Search and recovery techniques
- Group management in emergencies
What You’ll Learn
- Prevention-first mindset: Identifying potential problems before they escalate
- Confidence in water rescues: Handling stressed or unconscious divers safely
- Effective communication: Working as a team with fellow rescuers
- Leadership and calmness under pressure
- Emergency planning and EAPs: Organizing rescue operations efficiently
What’s Included?
- PADI Rescue Diver manual or eLearning access
- Confined and open water sessions with a PADI Instructor
- Certification card upon completion
- Use of rental dive equipment (if needed)
Course Duration
- 7 days, depending on schedule and conditions
- Typically includes one pool session and two open water days
Why Take It?
- Increased safety and confidence: You’ll feel more comfortable diving independently or with less experienced divers.
- Prepared for emergencies: Learn to manage real-world problems effectively.
- Prerequisite for professional certifications: This course is mandatory for Divemaster and Instructor Development Courses (IDC).
- Personal growth: Many divers say this is one of the most challenging but rewarding courses they’ve taken.
Why Take the Rescue Diver Course with Scuba Sirens?
The variety of dive environments at Anilao, Puerto Galera, and Subic makes for realistic, practical training. With Scuba Sirens, our experienced instructors will guide you through every step, ensuring you feel confident, safe, and supported during the course. You’ll leave prepared to handle anything the ocean throws at you—whether on a fun dive or as part of a dive team.
PADI Divemaster Course
is the first step into professional diving, transforming recreational divers into confident dive leaders. As a certified Divemaster (DM), you’ll supervise diving activities, assist instructors during training, and lead certified divers. This course blends theory, skill development, and real-world scenarios, preparing you to become a role model in the diving community.
Why Take the PADI Divemaster Course?
- Professional Career Step: It opens doors to working at dive resorts and guiding certified divers worldwide.
- Leadership and Safety: You’ll develop the ability to manage dive operations and handle dive emergencies.
- Path to Instructor: A required certification for enrolling in the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC).
Course Structure
1. Knowledge Development
You’ll dive into dive theory and professional practices using the PADI Divemaster Manual or eLearning. Topics include:
- Dive physics and physiology
- Dive planning and equipment
- Risk management and problem-solving
- Professional ethics and responsibilities
- Leadership scenarios for group dives
You’ll complete knowledge reviews and exams to solidify your theoretical understanding.
2. Water Skills and Stamina
This section tests your physical fitness and watermanship with:
- Swim tests: Timed 400m swim, 800m snorkel swim, and a 100m tow.
- Treading water: 15 minutes, with the last 2 minutes hands-free.
- Rescue assessment: Performing in-water rescue techniques efficiently.
3. Practical Application
This involves hands-on leadership experience and in-water training to refine your dive management and supervision skills.
- Supervising dive activities: Manage real dive operations under the guidance of a PADI Instructor.
- Assisting with courses: Gain experience helping with Open Water Diver, Advanced, and Rescue Diver programs.
- Skill demonstrations: Polish your diving techniques to a professional standard.
You’ll also complete scenarios, such as dealing with panicked or lost divers.
Certification Requirements
To earn your PADI Divemaster certification, you must:
- Complete all theory, stamina, and practical assessments.
- Participate in rescue scenarios.
- Have 60 logged dives by the end of the course.
What’s Included?
- PADI Divemaster Crew Pack or eLearning access
- Logbook and dive slate for recording activities
- Practical sessions and course supervision
- Divemaster certification card upon completion
Course Duration
The course duration is flexible, typically taking between 3 to 6 weeks depending on your schedule, diving experience, and location. A longer internship-style course allows for more hands-on experience.
Why Take Your PADI Divemaster Course with Scuba Sirens?
With Scuba Sirens, you’ll train in Puerto Galera and Subic. Whether you’re working on wreck dives in Subic or drift diving in Puerto Galera, our expert instructors provide real-world experience in a variety of conditions.