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The 5 Best Dive Schools in Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao is one of the most popular islands in the world to scuba dive
Koh Tao is one of the most popular islands in the world to scuba dive | © Roctopus Dive

Each year, Koh Tao, Thailand, attracts thousands of visitors with its near year-round calm and crystal-clear waters and diverse wealth of marine life. In fact, this tiny island of just 21 square kilometres pumps out more scuba certifications annually than nearly anywhere else in the world, second only to Queensland, Australia – but at a much lower price point.
The island’s immense popularity has generated a niche industry driven by dozens of dive schools and resorts, each accommodating all kinds of preferences, languages, and requirements. Whether you’re brand spanking new to the sport or have been blowing bubbles for years, how do you know which school is right for you?

Big Blue Diving Resort

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© Big Blue Dive Resort

Big Blue is firmly among the longest-running establishments on the island, and during its tenure has branded itself as one of the most reputable programs around. With regularly packed boats, divers are guaranteed introduction to a huge family of new friends with each new dive, under the guidance of some of the most experienced dive professionals on the island. Its dive master trainee program is among the largest, making it a great choice for those thinking about staying island-bound longer term. The centre offers both PADI and SSI training options. Big Blue also has active conservation activities with plenty of options for visitors to learn more about marine biology and the centre’s eco efforts. Then there’s the freediving centre, in case you’re keen to check out the underwater world without the tank, and technical dive training, to sink even deeper into your scuba training.

Best for: Open water certifications, solo travelers eager to meet lots of people at once, those interested in trying out freediving or technical diving courses.

Ratios: Maximum 6 divers to 1 leader

Price: $

Take your diving to the next level with Big Blue Tech, learning specialties like sidemount, using different gas mixtures, rebreathers, and exploring further depths

Also check out these similar schools: Crystal Dive, Simple Life Resort

Goodtime Adventures

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© Goodtime Adventures

This fun-loving shop specializes in small groups and personalized experiences. Its fleet includes two speedboats, which makes for extra-flexible schedule options that allow for a bit more sleep in the morning (for those who gawk at the 6am wake-up calls common among many centres) and easy access to more niche dive sites not always visited by bigger schools on stricter schedules. Goodtime’s diving operations merge seamlessly into its wide range of other activities, including rock climbing, abseiling, cliff jumping, booze cruising, and even flying trapeze, and its divers enjoy discounts on the lot. Short on time or want to test the waters before signing up for an open water certification course? Goodtime Adventures is also one of the only shops that offer a half-day “try dive” experience in both the morning and afternoon to accommodate any schedule.

Best for: New divers, flexible scheduling, speedboat access to the premier dive sites, packages with other island activities.

Ratios: Maximum 4 divers to 1 leader

Price: $

Goodtime Adventure’s versatile fleet includes its signature “big boat,” similar to almost all other centres, as well as two speedboats

Also check out these similar schools: Davy Jones Locker, New Heaven Dive School

Sairee Cottage Resort

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© Peach Snaps Underwater Photography / instagram.com/peachsnapsphotography

Another well-established centre, Sairee Cottage offers a spectrum of PADI courses, but what sets it apart is has a dedicated fun dive boat for certified divers, making cruising directly to Koh Tao’s premier dive sites a breeze. For those who are a bit nervous about taking the plunge, this centre is also among the few that conduct the first portion of its “try dive” program in the swimming pool rather in the ocean to build your confidence before taking on the open water. For photo-enthusiasts, the resort also has one of the top underwater photography trainers on the island in its staff. Sairee Cottage boasts impressive facilities as well. Its gorgeous beachfront resort includes plenty of accommodation, two saltwater pools, a swim-up bar, and great classrooms for training programs.

Best for: Certified divers, open water certification courses in medium-sized groups.

Ratios: Maximum 6 divers to 1 leader

Price: $$

Those with an eye for photography are in luck – Sairee Cottage’s in-house photographer Peach Snaps Underwater Photography is one of the most experienced and recognized trainers on the island

Also check out these similar schools: Scuba Junction, Phoenix Divers

ACE Marine Expeditions

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© ACE Marine

This private centre is all about personal customization. Dives are organized as private charters and scheduled based on the best times to visit popular dive sites – when no other boats are there. If you’re taking a course, their professional staff will come to teach you at your accommodation for the ultimate ease and flexibility, and they can adjust schedules based on your time requirements and preference. The owner is also a well-respected underwater photographer, happy to customise photography training based on individual goals.

Best for: Luxury training, personalized attention, private boat charters, photography courses, families.

Ratios: diver preference – one on one and up.

Price: $$$

Make those diving memories tangible with ACE Marine’s full underwater photography training options and camera rentals.

Also check out these similar schools: Jamahkiri, Dive Wishes and More

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