Course overview

SSI Basic Diver is a short entry-level programme that takes beginners beyond a single try-dive, combining confined-water training with guided open-water dives off Nilaveli. Over a couple of days you learn the core scuba skills under instructor supervision and dive the gentle reefs of Pigeon Island Marine Park, forming a strong foundation you can later complete into full Open Water certification.

What you’ll learn

• Assemble and check basic scuba equipment
• Breathe and equalise comfortably underwater
• Clear your mask and recover the regulator
• Control buoyancy at a basic level
• Communicate with standard hand signals
• Dive safely under instructor supervision

Prerequisites

• No prior experience required
• Minimum age 10
• Basic comfort in the water
• A brief medical questionnaire (physician sign-off if needed)

What's included · What's not

Probability of sightings · month-by-month

What you're likely to see each month, based on historic operator logs.

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day1
   Skills & first dive

   Learn and practise the core scuba skills in confined water off Nilaveli, then make your first guided open-water dive.
2. Day2
   Reef dive & certification

   Refine your skills and dive the Pigeon Island reefs, completing the SSI Basic Diver programme.

Verified through iDive

Every partner school in the iDive network is vetted on safety, instructor credentials, equipment standards and student feedback. Talk to a iDive dive pro on WhatsApp for current availability and reviews specific to Trincomalee.

Frequently asked questions