What to Expect from Your First Dive Course in Bohol (And Why You’ll Love It)
So, you’re thinking of learning to scuba dive—and you’ve got your eyes on Bohol. Excellent choice. With its calm tropical waters, thriving coral reefs, and laid-back island charm, Bohol is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to take your first plunge into the world of scuba diving.
Whether you’re a little nervous, completely new to the ocean, or just looking for the next great adventure, this guide walks you through exactly what to expect from your first dive course in Bohol—and why you’re probably going to love every second of it.
Why Learn to Dive in Bohol?
The short answer: it’s beginner-friendly, stunning underwater, and the perfect mix of vacation and discovery.
Located in the central Visayas, Bohol is known for its Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and island-hopping excursions—but below the surface lies another world entirely. The waters around Panglao, Balicasag, and Pamilacan are home to vibrant coral reefs, massive sardine schools, sea turtles, and everything from frogfish to jackfish—all waiting to be discovered by new divers.
Even better? The conditions here are ideal for beginners. The water is warm year-round (26–30°C), visibility is generally excellent, and there are numerous shallow, protected bays that provide the perfect classroom for learning to dive.
What Is the PADI Open Water Course?
The PADI Open Water Diver certification is the most widely recognized beginner scuba course in the world. Once you complete it, you’ll be certified to dive to 18 meters (60 feet) independently (with a buddy) anywhere in the world.
The course typically takes 3–4 days to complete and consists of three key components:
1. Knowledge Development
You’ll learn the theory of scuba diving: how pressure affects your body, how to use dive tables and computers, equipment basics, underwater communication, and safety procedures.
This can be done online in advance (PADI eLearning) or at the dive center through videos and guided sessions with your instructor.
2. Confined Water Training
This is where you practice key skills in a pool or pool-like setting. You’ll learn how to:
- Clear your mask underwater
- Recover your regulator (the mouthpiece)
- Control your buoyancy
- Remove and replace your gear underwater
- Handle basic emergency scenarios
Everything is done step-by-step, at your pace, with your instructor by your side.
3. Open Water Dives
This is the fun part! You’ll complete four dives at actual dive sites—usually starting at very shallow depths and gradually going deeper as you gain confidence. These dives allow you to apply what you’ve learned while exploring Bohol’s underwater wonders.
What’s It Actually Like?
Let’s break down a typical day in the course:
Morning:
Start with a briefing and a review of key concepts. Then gear up and head to the pool or beach for confined water training. Your instructor will demonstrate a skill, then you’ll repeat it—under supervision—until it feels natural.
Lunch:
Refuel with some delicious Filipino cuisine (or a smoothie bowl from a beachfront café—you’re in paradise, after all).
Afternoon:
Head out on the dive boat to a shallow coral reef. You’ll practice your skills again, then take time to explore and enjoy the marine life. Expect to see clownfish, butterflyfish, colorful corals, and maybe even a turtle.
Each day builds on the last, and by the end of the course, you’ll feel like a real diver.
Common Concerns (And Why You Shouldn’t Worry)
“What if I’m not a strong swimmer?”
You don’t need to be an Olympic swimmer to dive. You’ll need to demonstrate basic water comfort—like floating for 10 minutes and swimming 200 meters at your own pace—but you’ll wear fins and a buoyant wetsuit, which help a lot.
“What if I’m nervous about breathing underwater?”
Totally normal. Your instructor will ease you into the experience, starting in shallow water. Most students find that once they get used to the regulator and realize they can breathe comfortably, their anxiety disappears.
“Is scuba diving safe?”
Yes—when you follow proper training and safety guidelines. That’s why the Open Water course is so important. It teaches you how to dive safely, manage risks, and stay in control.
Why Bohol Makes It Easier (and More Fun)
Warm, Calm Waters
You won’t be shivering in a wetsuit or fighting waves here. The ocean is like a bathtub—warm and welcoming, especially for first-timers.
Amazing Underwater Life
Even on your first dive, you’re likely to see vibrant corals, swarms of reef fish, and possibly turtles, sardines, or even sea snakes. It’s the perfect place to fall in love with the ocean.
Experienced, Supportive Instructors
At Sierra Madre Divers, our PADI instructors are patient, professional, and passionate about teaching. We’ve certified thousands of students from around the world and specialize in helping first-time divers feel comfortable and confident.
Top-Notch Equipment and Safety
We use high-quality, regularly serviced gear that fits properly and performs reliably. Your safety is our top priority, and we teach all courses to the highest PADI standards with a focus on fun, not pressure.
What You’ll Walk Away With
Beyond the certification card, you’ll finish your Open Water course with:
- A solid foundation in diving skills
- Confidence to explore the underwater world
- A deeper appreciation for marine life and conservation
- Lifelong memories of your first dives in one of the world’s most beautiful settings
And once certified, you can continue your dive education with advanced courses, specialties, or even go pro one day!
Tips for Making the Most of Your Course
- Book in advance to ensure you get the schedule you want, especially in high season.
- Choose eLearning if you want to do the theory before your trip and spend more time in the water.
- Don’t stress about perfection. Everyone learns at their own pace—and our instructors are here to support you.
Ready to Start Your Dive Journey?
Whether you’ve been dreaming about scuba diving for years or just decided to try something new, the PADI Open Water course in Bohol is your perfect entry point. With its calm conditions, friendly instructors, and stunning dive sites, learning to dive here isn’t just easy—it’s unforgettable.
Contact Sierra Madre Divers today to reserve your place in our next beginner course, ask questions, or learn more about our dive and stay packages. Your underwater adventure begins in Bohol.
