REVIEW · KO PHI PHI DON
From Phi Phi: PADI Open Water Course *eLearning (2+ days)
Book on Viator →Operated by Blue View Divers · Bookable on Viator
Learning scuba skills in Phi Phi feels easy.
This is a PADI Open Water course built around a smart mix of PADI eLearning you do before arrival and hands-on skills on Ko Phi Phi Don. I like that the staff puts safety and professionalism front and center from the first day. I also like the small-group vibe, which makes it easier for instructors to notice what you’re doing wrong before you lock in bad habits. One catch: you’ll need to study on your own (about 8–12 hours), and weather can affect schedules.
You’ll check in at a quiet spot with real island views, then get your first practice off the beach.
After you get your skills and theory done, you’ll head out by boat for training sessions around the Phi Phi Leh and Bida islands. A possible drawback to plan for: National Park fees (800 THB) are not included, and the activity is non-refundable if you cancel.
In This Review
- Key reasons this course is worth a look
- PADI Open Water with eLearning: why the pre-work helps
- Where training happens: Viewpoint Resort and a calmer start
- The schedule on the water: 5 hours, two sessions, then log it
- Boat route and timing
- Stops you’ll hit: Ko Phi Phi Le, Maya Bay, and Ko Bida Nok
- Ko Phi Phi Le: good practice ground with marine life nearby
- Maya Bay: famous views, but still about the lesson
- Ko Bida Nok: wildlife checks and reef-respect rules
- Safety-first instruction: why the staff style matters
- Price and value: what you really pay
- Practical tips so your course goes smoothly
- Do the eLearning early
- Plan for a weather-based schedule
- Check your medical requirements
- Motion and comfort
- Reef-respect habits are part of the grade
- Who this course is best for (and who should pause)
- Should you book this Phi Phi Open Water course?
- FAQ
- How long is the PADI Open Water course on Phi Phi?
- Do I need to study before I arrive?
- What happens first when you get there?
- Where do the training activities take place?
- What’s included in the price?
- What fee is not included?
- Is it suitable if I have asthma?
Key reasons this course is worth a look
Where training happens: Viewpoint Resort and a calmer start
eLearning (2+ days) – Where training happens: Viewpoint Resort and a calmer start’ />
Check-in happens the day before, at the office at Viewpoint Resort, about 5 minutes outside town. The setting has those Phi Phi “movie background” views over Loh Dalum Bay, so even before you get wet, you’ll feel like you’re in a different mood than the busy pier area.
On your first training day, you’ll do confined skills off the beach. That’s where you learn buoyancy basics, how to use your gear, and how to stay calm even when you’re doing something new with your whole body. A key practical benefit: confined practice is where mistakes are less scary. You can repeat motions until they feel natural before you’re out on a boat and working with open-water conditions.
The schedule on the water: 5 hours, two sessions, then log it
