Ah, scuba diving. Pretty much the closest you’ll ever get to being a mermaid. If you’re itching to experience what it’s like seeing marine life up close, scuba diving is probably one of the must-dos on your bucket list. But if you don’t know where to start, this guide will be your saving grace, with everything you need to know from prerequisites to a list of the scuba diving courses in Singapore.
Table of Contents
Image credit: @sunycovellp via Instagram
There are tons of scuba diving certifications out there, but the 2 main ones that are offered by most schools in Singapore are the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and SSI (Scuba Schools International) certifications.
Here’s a quick breakdown on the main similarities and differences between these two:
Similarities:
Differences:
Image credit: Dive Lab Singapore via Facebook
Ultimately, both certifications will open up a myriad of diving opportunities and are widely recognised across the world. If anything, choose the certification you want based on the scuba diving schools we’ve compiled below. Make sure to take into account factors like flexibility of class timings or the location of the dive centre to suit your preferences.
*Note: Prices provided are for the whole course, inclusive of theory lessons, pool sessions, the Open Water Dive trip and the certification itself. Diving equipment rental and insurance may come at an additional cost.
| School | Certification | Price | Dive locations |
| The Diving Company | PADI Open Water | $899 | SG, Tioman |
| Orpheus Dive | PADI Open Water | $1,295 | SG, Tioman, Bali |
| Marlin Divers | PADI Open Water | $845 | SG |
| GS Diving | PADI Open Water | $838 | SG, Tioman |
| Simply Scuba | PADI Open Water | $890 | SG, Tioman |
| Blue Reef Scuba | PADI Open Water | $699 | Tioman |
| Singapore Oceanarium | PADI Open Water | $678 | SG |
| Turtle Buddy Divers | PADI Open Water | $788 | SG |
| Deep Blue Scuba | SSI Open Water | $578 | SG, Tioman |
| re:DIVE | SSI Open Water | $869 | Tioman |
| Cuddlefish Divers | SSI Open Water | $778 | SG |
| Gill Divers | SSI Open Water | $749 | Tioman, Bali |
| Ren Scubaworx | SSI Open Water | $1,380 | Tioman |
| Dive Lab | SSI Open Water | $689 | SG, Tioman |
| Fishermen Scuba Studio | PSS Open Water | $710 | Tioman, Bali, Phuket |
It typically takes 2 to 3 days. The first day consists of pool training and getting used to the diving equipment. The 2nd and 3rd days are used for diving in the open waters, where you’ll need to complete 4 dives to qualify for the certification. Most diving schools offer the choice of doing the dives in Singapore or at Tioman Island.
Image credit: @thedivecompany & @beardedcoursedirector via Instagram
The Dive Company offers 2 options when it comes to Open Water Dive locations. After online theory learning and training in a pool, you can opt to complete your weekend dives in Tioman or stay in Singapore and do them at Pulau Hantu. Of course, the former offers better underwater visibility and the chance to see more vibrant reef life.
Prices start from $899 for a course completely based in Singapore, while Tioman dives start at $999, including trip transportation, meals, and accommodation. In both cases, the fee also covers all dive equipment you’ll need, instructor fees, and the PADI certification.
The Diving Company review: “I had an absolutely incredible experience earning my Open Water certification with this dive company! My bday trip to tioman! (19th to 21sept 2025) From start to finish, everything was smooth, professional, and filled with positive energy.” – Azry Adam via Google
Apart from the usual dive locations in Singapore and Malaysia, Orpheus Dive also conducts Open Water dives in Bali. The course fees of $1,295 are inclusive of theory materials and the necessary dive equipment. The reason the prices are comparatively higher than other schools is their low student-to-instructor ratio.
Generally, 1 instructor teaches only up to 3 students, allowing them to pay extra attention to each individual. Weaker swimmers and kids who need extra coaching can go for the 1-to-1 private classes at $1,495.
Orpheus Dive review: “Orpheus dive was recommended by a friend, I have not dived for 4 years so we did our refresher first with Tina. 2 months later we did our advanced open water and nitrox with Tina too. Tina was very good at explaining how we can improve our trim and buoyancy. The course was also very well organized.” – Joyce via Google
Image credit: @marlindivers via Instagram
At Marlin Divers, the instructors adjust their teaching methods based on the students’ progression. Adults often join the Junior Open Water Diver course with their kids to make it a full family adventure, conveniently experienced in our local waters.
Do note that dives are only conducted in Pulau Hantu, with course fees of $845. However, if you’d like to do your open dives elsewhere, they also offer simple theory and pool classes for $580.
Marlin Divers review: “The course was professionally done and we felt safe and confident with our instructor (also had lots of fun!). She patiently answered all our questions and made sure we were practising good habits from the beginning. Marlin Divers also has high quality and well maintained equipment.” – Rachel Chua via Google
Image credit: @gsdiving via Instagram
Apart from Pulau Hantu, this school does local diving at Sisters’ Islands as well. If you’re looking to conquer more than just Singapore and Malaysia after attaining your certification, you can sign up for GS Diving’s other dive trips that include exploring shipwrecks in the South China Sea and Riau Islands.
The course here sets you back $838, inclusive of everything you’ll need to get the certification. For those unsure, sign up for the trial session at $280 which includes a pool session and a supervised open water dive.
GS Diving review: “Happy to give a very positive review. I did my PADI enriched Nitrox course with GS-Diving. I can highly recommend Gary, fast and professional responses on my queries beforehand, the whole course went smoothly and successfully.” – Germer Kegge
Image credit: @simplyscubasg via Instagram
If you’re worried about safety, you’ll be glad to know that Simply Scuba holds a 100% accident-free record. Their diving facility is located within Changi Sailing Club where pool sessions are conducted every Wednesday at 6pm. You’ll also have to attend a theory session via zoom on a Monday at 7pm.
As for the open water dives, choose between Southern Islands in Singapore or a weekend in Tioman. Either way, course packages cost $890.
Simply Scuba review: “One standout aspect of Simply Scuba is that they own their own boat, which significantly reduces waiting time for ferries to and from Mersing. This efficiency allowed us to maximize our diving time, making the most of our days underwater.” – Chiew Kai Mok via Google
Image credit: @ via Instagrambluereefscuba
Blue Reef Scuba has one of the more affordable rates for the Open Water Course at $699. However, you’ll probably need to fork out a little more time to complete a pool session on a weekend from 10.30am to 4pm at Orchid Country Club. This can be done a couple of weeks before your 2-night trip to Tioman which departs from Singapore on a Friday evening and returns on Sunday night.
Blue Reef Scuba review: “10/10 experience with Ang Chee Peng, ashar, mint, diana, and the whole crew! it was my first time diving so i panicked a bit, but the team helped resolve everything quickly and smoothly! the whole thing was smooth and well organised.” – Jann via Google
If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to dive in the deep blue tanks in the Singapore Oceanarium, here’s your chance. Signing up for their Open Water Diver Course means your pool sessions will take place at Adventure Cove Waterpark, and you’ll get to swim alongside the thriving marine life in the Open Ocean Habitat, including manta rays and groupers.
The pool and Open Water Dive sessions are priced at $678, and you’ve got 2 sessions to choose from – Tuesday to Thursday or Friday to Sunday.
Find out more about Singapore Oceanarium’s dives
If weekend-packed certification courses feel too rushed, Turtle Buddy Divers offers a more flexible way to get your PADI Open Water certification. Priced at $788, their schedule lets you complete the course over a few days or spread it out over a longer period, making it easier to fit around work and other commitments.
Training sessions are conducted at the pool in Raffles Marina, while open water dives take place in local waters aboard the school’s own boat departing from the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club. Classes are kept small too, so you’ll get more personalised guidance underwater.
Beyond scuba certification, Turtle Buddy Divers also offers freediving and mermaid courses for those looking to branch out into other aquatic adventures.
Turtle Buddy Divers review: “We had a delightful experience with Turtle Buddy for our father-son OWD certification. Instructors Raihando & Leo demonstrated exceptional professionalism. Their patience and focused attention, especially with my 10 years old son, was truly commendable.” – CL Tan via Google
Image credit: @deepbluescuba via Instagram
Deep Blue Scuba’s SSI Open Water Diver course starts from $578, with open water dives conducted at Lazarus Island. If you’d rather complete your certification in Tioman, there’s also an option priced at $649.
The theory portion is completed through an online learning platform, followed by a weekly in-person session every Tuesday from 7pm to 10.30pm where instructors go through questions and key concepts in greater detail. Pool training takes place every Sunday from 9am to 4pm at Outram Secondary School.
Once certified, you can continue diving with the school through organised trips to destinations like the Philippines, Thailand, and even the Maldives, making it a good option if you’re already eyeing your next underwater escape.
Deep Blue Scuba
Address: South Bridge Rd, 74b, Singapore 058704
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 11am-9pm | Sat-Sun, 11am-7pm
Contact: 6557 2705 | Deep Blue Scuba website
Image credit: @redive.sg via Instagram
If committing to a diving course feels intimidating, re:DIVE offers a more laid-back way to get started. Prospective students can first meet the co-founders for a casual drink and chat to learn more about the course and ask questions before deciding if it’s the right fit.
Their certification dives are conducted in Tioman, with packages priced at $869 for a 3D2N trip and $898 for a 4D3N trip. The slightly longer option gives learners more breathing room to complete their training at a comfortable pace.
This low-pressure, community-focused approach makes re:DIVE a good pick for first-timers who want to ease into the sport rather than jump straight into an intensive course.
re:DIVE review: “Did a 2D1N Open Water Dive certification course with re:DIVE and it was one of the best experiences ever! The trip was planned very well and efficiently, with good accommodation, amazing dive trips, nice meals and nothing short of fun and laughter.” – huier tan via Google
Cuddlefish Divers keeps things highly personalised with a maximum ratio of 2 students to 1 instructor, making it ideal for nervous beginners who prefer learning at their own pace. Its Pay-As-You-Learn programme also lets you spread out costs instead of paying for everything upfront.
The course is split into separate components:
This brings the total to $778. To sweeten the deal, students also receive a free rashguard and leggings set, plus a Hux mask. The flexible structure means you can progress step by step without feeling rushed into completing everything within a fixed weekend schedule.
Cuttlefish Divers review: “Completed our open water course with cuddlefish. Thank you to Sabri for your patience and guidance since day 1! Thank you to Nick for coordinating all our timeslots given the tight timeline! Cheers to exploring 71% of earth!” – Jo via Google
Image credit: @gilldivers via Instagram
If you’re looking for something different from a dive in Tioman ($749) or Bali ($899), Gill Divers gives you the option to customise your Open Water Course. Dives in Tioman happen every weekend, while those in Bali are conducted bi-monthly over a 5-day, 4-night trip.
You’re also not completely left on your own with e-learning; an instructor will be able to answer any questions and go through harder concepts during an online theory session.
Gill Divers review: “Went for 2 diving courses within a year and they’ve been very helpful! Great experience. 🫰🏻” – siti M via Google
Image credit: @renscubaworx via Instagram
Yes, you can get your SSI Open Water Diving cert with Ren Scubaworx, but you can also get scuba equipment using CDC vouchers. Apart from being a training centre, the school is also known for its dive shop offering all sorts of equipment for those who eventually want to get their own gear.
Those looking for a private session will be pleased to know that courses here are offered on a 1:1 teacher-to-student ratio, going for $1,380, fully conducted in Tioman.
Ren Scubaworx review: “Amazing dive trip with Eddy – from the Pre-trip preparation to the post-trip photo sharing – all coordinated smoothly and professionally. Definitely coming back for more adventures with the team!” – David Choo via Google
Image credit: @divelabsg via Instagram
For $689, DiveLab provides you with everything you need to complete the course and walk away with an Open Water Diver Certification. Exclusive to them is also the chance for students to wear a Shearwater dive computer to monitor depth, time, and gas management.
Opt to do your entire course locally, or experience the ocean dives in Tioman for a small top-up to $849 for individuals and $799 for buddies.
Dive Lab review: “Signed up for OW via buddy promo but due to work commitment I had to postpone. They are nice in accommodating my request on the change of dates.” – Larry Tay via Google
Image credit: Fishermen Scuba Studio via Facebook
While Fishermen Scuba Studio used to offer SSI certification, they’ve now switched to a Professional Scuba Schools (PSS) certification. The training is almost the same as others, but it is slightly less recognised internationally, and you may have to show recently logged dives for shops to accept your certification.
Diving packages start from $710, and you’ll have the option to complete your course in Tioman, Bali or Phuket.
Fishermen Scuba Studio review: “very friendly instructors.. thks to Alex, Maria. Dillon n a few others for making this OWDC a pleasant learning experience for me.. definitely will go back to them for more leisure dives before i attempt my AOWDC” – Zihao Sng (Ah Hao) via Google
To get a scuba diving certification in Singapore, you’ll need to complete an Open Water Diver course, which covers theory, pool sessions, and an open water dive trip. This is a popular course for beginners that lets you embark on independent dives when you travel abroad.
While you do not need to be a strong swimmer, you must be able to swim 200m and float on or tread in water for 10 minutes without any swimming aid or floatation device. Most courses start by training in a shallow pool with experienced certified coaches, so you’re in safe hands.
One must also be at least 10 years old to join a diving course.
The entire course usually costs between $678 and $899.
Image credit: @ongzhongkai via Instagram
Remember, when it comes to diving, safety always comes first. So while price may be a consideration, rest assured that the sum you’ll be paying guarantees professional instructors with expertise to make sure you master the basics.
Now that we’ve done the homework for you, you can pick a diving school that suits you, dive right in and begin your underwater journey right away!
Cover image adapted from: @gsdiving, @marlindivers, @simplyscubasg via Instagram
Originally written by Adira Chow & published on 14th March 2018. Last updated by Aditi Kashyap on 5th May 2026.
Minecraft Education is included with a Microsoft 365 Education account.
All the best things to buy and eat at the new Sanrio Superstar Boutique at…
Prices start from $578!
With this list of places to golf at, you'll definitely find the perfect golf course…
Stop defaulting to Bali's beaches.
Bring a reclining chair for a comfier experience.