Big Blue Diving Koh Tao
Big Blue Diving Koh Tao
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Overview
Big Blue Diving has been operating on Koh Tao for over 30 years and has grown to one of the largest dive shops on the island with 3 dive boats.
From beginner scuba courses providing essential skills and certifications, to advanced diving programs via Big Blue’s own Professional and Tech training centres; there is a complete range of courses, training and scuba experiences available.
Features
Daily dive schedule
Morning Boat
6:30 – Meet your dive pro at the dive shop
7:45 -11:00 – Two dives, with a one-hour surface interval on the boat
11:30-12:00 – Arrive back on Sairee Beach
Afternoon Boat
12:15 – Meet your dive pro at the dive shop
13:00 -16:30 – Two dives with a one-hour surface interval on the boat
17:00-17.30 – Arrive back on Sairee Beach
Night Dives
17:30 – Meet your dive pro at the dive shop
18:30 – Night dive
19:30 – 19:45 – Arrive back on Sairee Beach
Dive Services
✓ Scuba Schools International Diamond Dive Centre
✓ Recreational scuba training for beginners
✓ Professional training – Divemaster, Instructor and above
✓ Stand-alone dive shop with training pool
✓ 3 dive boats
✓ 100+ full sets of dive equipment
✓ 30 training and guiding staff
Included
Courses
✓ SSI online training material, dive shop affiliation and certification fees
✓ All practical instruction conducted at the dive shop
✓ All relevant dive equipment required for your course**
Fun Diving (certified divers)
✓ Divemaster dive guide
✓ Snacks, water, tea and coffee on the dive boat
* Inclusions are dependent on the course or fun dive
package you purchase. Rental equipment is available at an additional cost.
** For professional training rental equipment is available at additional cost, however when entering the professional ranks, you are generally expected to have your own equipment.
Excluded & Additional Fees
✓ Dive or travel insurance
✓ Accommodation or meals
✓ Ferry transfers to or from Koh Tao
✓ Hotel or resort transfers*
✓ Rental equipment beyond the basics, such as UW cameras, torches, computers, DPV’s etc
*Hotel or resort transfers can be arranged in advance at additional expense to you
Payment Plan
0% - Now
30% - 48 hours after the reservation is made
70% - On arrival and check-in
Cancellation Fees
Recreational Training
Recreational scuba diver training starts with fun pool lessons where you'll learn to breathe underwater and master basic skills. Then, you'll dive into the ocean under the watchful eye of your instructor and finally receive your globally recognised scuba certification.
Technical Training
Technical diver training starts with advanced skills and techniques in a controlled environment, teaching you to handle specialized equipment and navigate challenging conditions beyond those that you have experienced as a recreational diver. Ultimately leading to globally recognised certifications taking you beyond the limits.
Professional Training
So you want to become a dive pro? That journey starts right here. It doesn't matter what level of diver you are right now, you can train up to Divemaster or even Instructor with a package that suits your needs. Get in touch now to find out more.
The booking process
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Initial planning
Found the perfect trip, or interested in recommendations? Submit a query and we’ll tailor something for you
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Email proposal
We’ll coordinate with the operators and collate the relevant information for you; to make selecting your next dive adventure easy
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Invoice and deposit
When you want to proceed, we’ll secure your spot and issue an invoice. Deposits usually due within 48hrs, then once we receive your deposit your booking is confirmed
Know before you go
How do I get there?
With scheduled ferries departing from the mainland and neighbouring islands, you can be there in just a few hours. We can assist with booking your ferry service and even a minibus transfer between several mainland locations and the relevant ports. For example, you can book a minibus and ferry ticket to travel from the Khao San Road, Bangkok to Koh Tao via Chumphon Port. You can also elect to fly into Koh Samui and then ferry from there. If you need assistance with transfers, please let us know.
Flights
Here's an easy way to see all the Flight Connections into Thailand.
Do I need a visa for this trip?
Most travellers can obtain a visa on arrival when visiting Thailand, however, it is always worth checking with the Thai embassy in your home country before travelling to avoid any delays.
What level of dive training do I need?
Dive shops offer training for all experience levels and are the primary resource for certification, whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced diver. If you're uncertain or need guidance, feel free to reach out and consult with Matt who always keen to share his knowledge and provide sound advice.
I am not a strong swimmer; can I still learn to dive?
Absolutely! If you're not confident in the water, you can start with our one-day Basic Try Scuba package, which doesn't require strong swimming skills. Once you experience the magic of the underwater world, you can continue your training, and we'll help you improve your swimming ability to become a fully qualified scuba diver.
PADI, SSI, RAID, which one should I do?
Honestly, it doesn’t make much difference until you decide to pursue a professional career in the industry. All major training agencies recognize each other when offering dive services. This means you can dive with a PADI centre even if you’re certified by SSI, RAID, NAUI, CMAS or others. The certification levels are also mutually acknowledged, so an Open Water Diver certification from PADI has the same value as one from SSI. The main difference is in how the courses are structured during training, but they all lead to the same end result, you being able to dive.
Do I need dive and travel insurance for this trip?
Comprehensive travel and diving insurance is essential for planning any scuba diving trip. Many operators require proof of both before allowing you to participate in their activities or use their services here's why. If you are taking part in a training program or course, then the operator may have provision to include dive insurance, however, we would always advise having your own insurance for any adventure.
We recommend DiveAssure for both dive and travel insurance. You can choose between single-trip or annual coverage.
To arrange your insurance now, please use this link -DiveAssure registration.
Are there any medical reasons why I cannot dive?
Operators providing dive services will require you to complete an RSTC medical declaration. Should you need to answer ‘YES’ to any of the questions then you will need a doctor to sign as authorizing you to be medically fit to dive. You can find an example of the RSTC medical questionnaire here.
What are the dive conditions like?
Koh Tao has two main seasons, the wet and the dry. The dry months bring temperatures into the high 30s above water and beneath the surface up to 29ºC. Visibility is vast during the dry months and can extend beyond 30 meters. The monsoon season brings daily rain, lower temperatures and visibility in the water; however, this also brings more nutrients and attracts the Whale sharks. It can be common to see one of these magnificent animals during an Open Water course!
As a Fun Diver, what can I expect to see during the dives?
Koh Tao has many dive sites and quite a good array of biodiversity. It can get busy at times however planning fun dives away from courses will certainly be of benefit to you. There are several sites with good macro opportunities and others such as Chumphon Pinnacle and South West Pinnacle attracting Pelagic action from shoaling fish, turtles, and Whale Sharks.
Can I extend my stay?
Certainly! If you'd like to extend your stay, just let us know, and we'll provide you with an updated quote. Many of our guests enjoy exploring multiple destinations during the same trip. If this interests you, contact us today, and we can discuss tailored options to suit your preferences.
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Expert navigation
We know diving and we know travel. Leverage off our extensive experience, insights and recommendations when planning your next scuba adventure
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Hand-picked operators
We are proud to work with professional and dedicated operators around the world that have the expertise and resources to deliver unforgettable diving and travel adventures
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Bookings made easy
With a straightforward booking process and flexible payment plans, we aim to simplify the logistics so you can focus on the fun stuff