The 5 PADI Courses in the Philippines Worth the Boat Ride

1.Scuba Diving in Boracay: SSI Basic Diver for Beginners

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 20 reviews · from $61Our pick

Spend four hours learning scuba basics with DiveGurus Boracay. You’ll watch a safety video, practice in shallow water, then take a 10-to-15-minute boat ride to a nearby site for a short underwater session. Instructors including Brian, Darwin, Carlo, Aika, Ju Ju, and Gen have helped first-timers feel calm and secure.

“DiveGurus is such an amazing place to stay, and our instructor Brian was so supportive. I was stressing in the beginning but he helped me calm down and explore the beauty of the underwater world ❤️”

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2.Scuba Diver Course (PADI)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 18 reviews · from $270

Learn core scuba skills in two days at Scotty’s inside Shangri-La Mactan. You’ll earn a PADI Scuba Diver certification for descents to 12 meters under direct professional supervision. Bernie is one named instructor, praised for patience and clear teaching. Equipment, towels, water, and fees are included.

“Bernie was my instructor and he was amazing. Knowledgeable and patient. I would recommend Scotty's sports at the Shangri La Resort in Mactan to anyone seeking Scuba lessons.”

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3.DiveGurus – Open Water Diver Course SSI/PADI

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 13 reviews · from $580

Spend about three days learning scuba skills with DiveGurus Boracay on Panay Island. You will complete knowledge work, at least five confined-water sessions, and four supervised boat sessions at local sites. Instructors including Brian, Max, Karlo, and Andrew have taught this course, though your assigned instructor may vary.

“If you’re considering getting PADI certified in Boracay, stop looking—Max is the instructor you need! I completed my Open Water PADI certification with him during my vacation, and it was hands-down one of the best decisions I’ve ever mRead more”

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4.Open Water Course (PADI)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 12 reviews · from $400

Start at Scotty’s inside Shangri-La Mactan with instructors Michel and Freddie for a two-day PADI Open Water Course. You’ll learn core scuba skills, use supplied equipment, and work toward beginner certification in a private group. Lunch and PADI study materials cost extra. Lapu Lapu Monument is nearby.

“Phenomenal experience. Michel and Freddie takes their time and delivers clear and concise instruction. Ensuring everyone trains to standard but well within their limits. Safety was always paramount. The entire experience was surreal. Read more”

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5.Scuba Diving in Boracay: SSI Basic Diver for Beginners

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 10 reviews · 4 hours · from $63

Spend four hours learning scuba basics with a certified instructor before making a boat trip into Boracay waters. You will practice with supplied equipment, learn key safety skills, and experience breathing underwater without committing to full certification. The experience is available in English, German, Tagalog, and Spanish, and may count toward SSI Open Water training.

“The instructors are very personable yet professional. They take their time to ensure you have a wonderful experience safely.”

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