If you’re considering upgrading your scuba skills during a trip to Thailand, the 2 Days PADI Advanced Course from Phi Phi offers a compelling blend of professional instruction, breathtaking underwater scenery, and a commitment to eco-friendly diving. While it’s not cheap, the quality of training and the chance to explore some of the most beautiful marine environments in the region make it well worth the investment for passionate divers.
What really stands out are the small group sizes, the knowledgeable guides (including instructors like Michael and Becca), and the stunning dive sites that are thoughtfully selected to avoid crowds and maximize your experience. The personalized service, combined with an eco-conscious approach, creates a diving trip that’s both fun and responsible. A potential consideration is that the park fees are extra, which is common in national parks, but it’s an additional cost to keep in mind.
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to expand their scuba skills, especially those who want to combine education with spectacular underwater sights. It’s also ideal for those who value professional guidance and a safety-first approach. If you’re looking for a memorable, responsible dive adventure that leaves you with more confidence and a love for the ocean, this course is a great choice.
- Good To Know
- What to Expect from the 2-Day PADI Advanced Course
- Day 1: Preparing and Beginning
- Day 2: Deeper and More Advanced
- Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Sites
- Equipment and Certification
- The Experience and Atmosphere
- Pricing and Value
- Who Should Consider This Course?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
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Good To Know
- Highly rated with a perfect 5.0 from 13 reviews, emphasizing quality and professionalism
- Small group sizes foster more personalized attention and exploration
- Eco-focused approach respects delicate marine ecosystems while exploring stunning sites
- Comprehensive instruction combining e-learning with practical dives led by experienced guides
- Includes all fees and equipment, with optional extras for park fees
- Perfect for those wanting to improve skills, see turtles, sharks, and vibrant corals
- Long-standing operator with a reputation for safety and professionalism
- Ideal for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to learn
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What to Expect from the 2-Day PADI Advanced Course
This course is designed to elevate your basic open water certification into a more confident, skilled diver. Over two days, you’ll explore some of the most appealing dive spots around Phi Phi, led by a team of passionate, safety-minded professionals.
The journey begins with a pre-course e-learning component, which you complete at your own pace. The night before the course, you meet your instructor, typically at Blue View Divers, to review chapters and clarify any questions. This prep work ensures you’re ready to hit the water with confidence.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ko Phi Phi Don
Day 1: Preparing and Beginning
On the first day, you meet about 30 minutes before departure at Phi Phi Pier for a briefing. The team is known for their personalized guidance, so expect a relaxed but thorough introduction. The first stop is Ko Bida Nok, where you’ll do your initial dives.
What makes this location special? It’s a classic spot with vibrant coral walls and lots of marine life, including the chance to spot turtles or small reef sharks. The focus here is on building confidence and practicing new skills in a familiar, safe environment. The instructors, like Michael, are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly approach, helping even nervous divers feel at ease.
Day 2: Deeper and More Advanced
The second day kicks off with a briefing at the pier, similar to Day 1. You’ll venture to Ko Phi Phi Le for your Deep Dive—a highlight of the course. This dive can reach depths of 30 meters, giving you an authentic sense of exploring the underwater world beyond your open water limits.
Reviewing real reviewer insights, many mention how guides like Becca and Michael guide you very well and help you compare colors and depths, making the experience both educational and fun. The focus remains on eco-friendly practices, ensuring your dive respects the environment.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Sites
Ko Bida Nok marks your introduction to the underwater environment. Its clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal spot for practicing new skills. Expect to see corals, small fish, and possibly your first turtles if you’re lucky. The location’s popularity means it can get busy, but the team does their best to position the group to avoid the crowds.
On the second day, Ko Phi Phi Le, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and vibrant coral reefs, hosts your deep dive. This site is perfect for testing your comfort at greater depths, with features that help you compare colors and learn how to manage your buoyancy. Reviewers mention that the guides are attentive and guiding flows smoothly, making even the deeper dive feel safe.
Throughout both days, the team emphasizes safety, education, and conservation. The instructors are described as knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to answer questions or help troubleshoot issues. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and high-quality equipment, ensuring a smooth experience.
Additional cost considerations include the Phi Phi National Park diving fee payable to park rangers—approximately 800 THB for two days or 1,000 THB for three days. This fee is common across dive operators in the area but is an extra expense to factor into your budget.
Equipment and Certification
All scuba equipment is provided, including a dive computer, and the team ensures everything is well-maintained. The PADI eLearning course is included, making the academic part flexible and less stressful. After completing the course, you’ll earn an official PADI Advanced Open Water certification, a valuable credential for future dives worldwide.
The insurance provided is basic but covers the essentials, giving peace of mind as you explore the underwater realm. The small class sizes mean more personalized instruction, which many reviewers praise—some groups are limited to just ten travelers, fostering a friendly and attentive atmosphere.
The Experience and Atmosphere
From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Michael and Becca are the heart of this operation. They are noted for their enthusiasm, patience, and expertise. Many mention how guides go out of their way to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, whether it’s explaining a technique or sharing fun facts about marine life.
The boats are described as nice and well-equipped, with plenty of space to relax between dives. The view from the dive center itself is fantastic—a perfect backdrop for gearing up and unwinding after a day in the water.
One reviewer highlighted how their instructor Becca made the experience extra special, describing her as extremely professional and all-round amazing. She even guided them on their very first night-dive, which was part of the course, and left them excited for future underwater adventures.
Pricing and Value
At $417.93 per person, this course is priced in the mid-to-high range, but it reflects the quality of instruction, small groups, and top-notch equipment. The inclusion of all fees, equipment, and certification costs means there are no hidden expenses.
While the additional park fees add to the total, they are a standard cost in the region and contribute to the preservation of these beautiful sites. Many reviews describe the experience as well worth the price, especially considering the expert guidance and the chance to see marine life like sharks and turtles.
This course particularly offers value for those serious about advancing their scuba skills, with small class sizes and personalized attention making it easier to learn efficiently and confidently.
Who Should Consider This Course?
This 2-day PADI Advanced Course is best suited for divers with at least some open water experience who want to deepen their skills and explore new depths. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate professional guides, smaller groups, and environmentally conscious operators.
It’s also perfect for those eager to see some of the most beautiful underwater scenery around Phi Phi, including coral reefs, turtles, and sharks. If you’re after a fun, educational, safe, and memorable dive experience with a friendly team, this course ticks all boxes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a diving course in Phi Phi isn’t just about acquiring a new certification—it’s about building confidence, connecting with nature, and creating lasting memories underwater. With knowledgeable guides, stunning sites, and a safety-focused approach, this 2-day PADI Advanced Course from Blue View Divers offers exceptional value and a chance to elevate your diving abilities.
The small class sizes and eco-conscious philosophy make this experience stand out in the crowded field of dive operators. Whether you’re looking to see your first sharks or simply want a professional, enjoyable way to improve your skills, this course seems like a fantastic option.
FAQ
What is included in the price of this course?
All fees and taxes are covered, including use of scuba equipment, lunch, the PADI eLearning course and certification fees, a dive computer rental, and basic insurance.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the Phi Phi National Park diving fee is payable to the park rangers—around 800 THB for two days or 1,000 THB for three days.
What is the meeting point for the course?
The course begins at Blue View Divers, located at Scuba Diving Phi PhiViewpoint Resort near Phi Phi Pier.
How physically demanding is the course?
The course requires moderate physical fitness. You should be comfortable in the water and able to handle some physical activity, but it is designed for most recreational divers.
Is this suitable for complete beginners?
It’s aimed at those who already have open water certification or some basic diving experience, seeking to improve their skills. Beginners without any prior experience should consider a beginner course first.
What is the group size?
The maximum group size is typically around 10 travelers, allowing for more personalized guidance.
Will I see marine animals like turtles or sharks?
While sightings depend on conditions, many reviewers have seen sharks and turtles during their dives, especially at popular sites like Bida Nok and Phi Phi Le.
How experienced are the instructors?
Instructors like Michael and Becca are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication to safety and eco-friendly practices.
Can I do night diving during this course?
Yes, some reviews mention guided night dives, and it was part of the experience for certain courses, providing a unique perspective on marine life.
Overall, this course offers a well-rounded, professional, and eco-minded approach to dive training that’s hard to beat in the Phi Phi area. Whether you want to gain confidence, see incredible marine creatures, or simply enjoy a safe and memorable underwater adventure, this experience gets it right.
