I'm a new Open Water diver. Is Bali a good place for my Advanced course?

Absolutely. Bali is one of the best places to build confidence after your initial certification. We can tailor your course to start in calm, protected bays like those in Amed or Padang Bai, and then gradually introduce you to more dynamic environments like the drift dives of Nusa Penida as your skills and comfort level grow.

What’s the ideal season for an Advanced Open Water course in Bali?

The dry season, from April to November, typically offers the best conditions with calmer seas and excellent visibility. However, Bali offers fantastic year-round diving. The 'Mola Mola' season (oceanic sunfish) from July to October is a major draw for divers heading to Nusa Penida for their deep dive.

How much does an Advanced Open Water course typically cost in Bali?

Prices vary between operators, but generally include PADI or SSI eLearning materials, certification fees, full equipment rental, instructor fees, and transport to dive sites. Always ask for a detailed breakdown to see what's included, such as lunch, drinks, and any potential marine park fees.

Do I need special gear for the Advanced Open Water course?

While a standard rental kit is sufficient, we highly recommend diving with your own dive computer. It's an essential tool for planning and executing deep dives safely. A surface marker buoy (SMB) is also crucial, especially for drift dives in areas like Nusa Penida.

Can I combine my Advanced course with exploring Bali's top dive sites?

That's the best way to do it! The course is structured around 'Adventure Dives,' so you'll be exploring world-class sites like the USAT Liberty Wreck or the manta cleaning stations of Nusa Penida *while* completing your training. It's learning through adventure, making every dive count.

Bali Diving – PADI 5-Star | Mola-mola, Manta Rays, Wrecks & Reefs

This guide is designed for certified divers ready to take the next step. We'll skip the fluff and dive straight into how you can leverage Bali’s incredible diversity to become a world-class diver. We cover which Adventure Dives are best suited to which sites, what to expect from the conditions, and how to plan a course that expands your skills while you explore.

Key Takeaways for Your Bali AOW Course

Why Bali is the Ultimate Classroom: Learn how the island's unique topography, from volcanic sand slopes to dramatic deep walls, makes it the perfect training ground.
Matching Dives to Sites: Discover the best locations for your core dives—like conducting your Deep Dive on the USAT Liberty Wreck and your Drift Dive in the channels of Nusa Penida.
Mastering Local Conditions: Understand the Indonesian Throughflow, seasonal changes in visibility, and why a good dive briefing is non-negotiable here.
Essential Gear for Bali: Beyond the basics, we'll discuss why a dive computer and a surface marker buoy (SMB) are must-haves for advanced diving in this region.
Smart Budgeting: Learn why investing in quality instruction is more important than saving a few dollars, ensuring you get the skills and confidence you pay for.

Matching Adventure Dives to Bali's Legendary Sites

The Advanced Open Water course consists of five 'Adventure Dives'. Two are mandatory—the Deep Dive and the Underwater Navigation Dive—and you choose the other three. Bali's diverse environments allow you to pick electives that truly excite you and match them to world-class locations.

1. Deep Dive (Mandatory)

The Goal: To safely plan and execute dives beyond 18 meters (60 feet), down to a maximum of 30 meters (100 feet).
Best Bali Sites: The USAT Liberty Wreck in Tulamben is a top choice, allowing you to descend along its historic structure. The dramatic walls of Nusa Penida or the drop-offs at Gili Tepekong also offer breathtaking deep-water experiences, often with a chance to see larger pelagic life.

2. Underwater Navigation (Mandatory)

The Goal: To master compass skills and natural navigation techniques, making you a more self-reliant and aware dive buddy.
Best Bali Sites: The calmer, sandy-bottom bays of Padang Bai (Blue Lagoon) or Amed (Jemeluk Bay) are perfect. They offer clear reference points and minimal current, creating an ideal, low-stress environment to perfect your kick cycles and compass headings.

3. Drift Dive (Popular Elective)

The Goal: To learn how to effortlessly fly with the current, managing your buoyancy and staying with your group in a dynamic environment.
Best Bali Sites: The north coast of Nusa Penida is Bali's drift diving capital. Sites like SD Point and Mangrove let you cruise along vibrant, sloping reefs teeming with life. This is a must-do skill for diving in this part of the world.

4. Wreck Dive (Popular Elective)

The Goal: To learn techniques for safely exploring the outside of a wreck, assessing potential hazards, and understanding its history.
Best Bali Sites: The 120-meter-long USAT Liberty Wreck is one of the most accessible and impressive wrecks on the planet. Starting at just 5 meters, it's perfect for training. The smaller Japanese Patrol Boat in Amed is another excellent option.

5. Peak Performance Buoyancy (Highly Recommended)

The Goal: To fine-tune your weighting and breathing to achieve neutral buoyancy, allowing you to hover effortlessly, conserve air, and protect fragile coral reefs.
Best Bali Sites: This can be practiced at any site, but the calm conditions of Tulamben's Coral Garden or Padang Bai's reefs are ideal for focusing on technique without battling currents.