Take a Coral Identification Course on Koh Tao
Corals may look like colorful underwater rocks, but they’re actually living animals with complex biological processes. In the SSI Coral Identification Course, you’ll discover how corals eat, reproduce, and build the reef structures that support tropical marine ecosystems.
This specialty offers a fascinating introduction to coral biology, symbiotic relationships, threats to reef health, and how to learn to identify coral species in the wild. Through interactive lessons and guided dives, you’ll begin to see the reef through a whole new lens.
Why Learn to Identify Coral Species While Diving?
Koh Tao’s reefs are home to hundreds of coral species, from fast-growing soft corals to sturdy hard coral colonies. Learning tropical coral identification gives you a deeper appreciation for reef life and helps you contribute meaningfully to marine conservation efforts.
You’ll explore the difference between hard and soft corals, understand their role in ocean biodiversity, and develop sharper underwater observation skills. Whether you’re a marine ecology enthusiast or just want to make your dives more educational, this course is your gateway to reef knowledge.
5,500 THB
How to Become an SSI Coral Identification Specialist
This one-day coral identification course is perfect for divers looking to enhance their reef awareness. You can complete it on its own or combine it with other marine ecology specialties. Below is a typical structure of the training sessions involved.
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Part 1 – Theory Session
The theory component of the coral identification course lays the groundwork for recognizing and understanding coral species underwater. After a short orientation with your instructor and the usual paperwork, you’ll dive into the online learning materials via the SSI app or browser. These guided modules allow you to study at your own pace before reviewing key concepts together with your instructor.
Key Topics Covered:
1. Coral Biology and Ecology
- Tropical coral identification, how they grow, reproduce, and interact with marine ecosystems
- Their vital role as habitat-builders and biodiversity anchors in tropical reef systems
2. Coral Types and Families
- Understanding the difference between hard and soft corals
- How to identify coral species using growth patterns, shapes, colors, and textures
3. Environmental Conditions
- Factors like light, water movement, and temperature that affect coral growth
- Human-related and natural threats such as bleaching, sedimentation, and pollution
4. Coral Conservation Awareness
- Global reef health challenges and the importance of diver responsibility
- Simple conservation actions you can take to protect coral reefs while diving
5. Dive Planning for Coral Identification
- How to choose sites, manage time, and adjust buoyancy to avoid harming the reef
- Tips on how to learn to identify coral species during actual dives
Part 2 – Open Water Dives
In the afternoon, we’ll head to one of Koh Tao’s coral-rich dive sites, like Twins, Japanese Gardens, or White Rock, for your two specialty training dives. This is where you’ll apply your tropical coral identification skills in real conditions.
With guidance from your instructor, you’ll observe reef-building stony corals and soft coral varieties, noting differences in structure, movement, and habitat. You’ll practice safe dive techniques, focus on precise buoyancy, and identify coral families in a relaxed and respectful way.
By the end of the coral identification course, you’ll not only be able to identify coral species confidently, but you’ll also have a deeper appreciation of the reef ecosystem and the vital role divers play in preserving it.
How the SSI Coral Identification Course Works
The coral identification course at Crystal Dive is a one-day program that blends hands-on diving with expert-led theory. You’ll complete two open water dives and a full review of coral biology and classification
MORNING
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9:00 AM – Course orientation, paperwork, and instructor meet & greet
Morning session – Theory review and guided discussion of your online learning, focusing on coral anatomy, reef zones, tropical coral identification techniques, and the difference between hard and soft corals
Lunch break
AFTERNOON
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Afternoon – Two open water dives at vibrant Koh Tao reef sites to practice coral observation skills and learn to identify coral species using real-life examples
On land - Debrief and log dives with instructor and certification!
Prefer to space the course out or combine it with other marine ecology programs? No problem. Contact us to arrange a custom schedule that fits your plans and training goals.
Coral Identification Course Prerequisites
Before you join the coral identification course at Crystal Dive, please make sure you meet the following minimum requirements to ensure a safe and fun diving experience.
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Minimum Age
You must be at least 10 years old to enrol in the SSI Coral Identification Course.
Minimum Certification Level
To join this tropical coral identification course, you’ll need to be a certified Open Water Diver or hold an equivalent certification from another recognised training agency.
Medical Statement
All students must be medically fit to dive. You can download the required scuba diving medical form here. If you have any concerns, we recommend checking with your physician or reaching out to us before booking.
Recent Diving Experience
If you haven’t logged a dive in the past six months, we’ll ask you to complete a quick Scuba Review session to ensure you’re comfortable in the water before beginning the course. This helps you get the most from your dives while learning to identify coral species safely and confidently.
CORAL IDENTIFICATION SPECIALTY
Price: 5,500 THB
Duration: 1 day
Minimum age: 10yrs
Prerequisites: Certified Diver
Schedule
Morning: Orientation & Theory
Afternoon: 2 Dives
What’s included With Your Tropical Coral Identification Course
Your coral identification course at Crystal Dive includes everything you need to explore the reef with new eyes. You’ll be taught in small groups (maximum 4 divers per instructor) and receive personalised guidance as you learn how to identify coral species in the vibrant tropical ecosystems around Koh Tao.
You’ll also get full access to the SSI digital learning system, so you can study at your own pace before or during your stay. Course fees cover theory, training dives, gear, and certification.
Included with your course:
- SSI Coral Identification Specialty Course (max. 4 students per instructor)
- Personal set of scuba equipment for the duration of the course
- FREE use of dive computer
- Digital learning materials via the SSI Training App (Diamond Access upgrade available)
- Official SSI Specialty certification upon successful completion
- Crystal Dive T-Shirt
- Multilingual, SSI-certified personal instructor
- Boat trips to Koh Tao’s coral-rich dive sites, plus refreshments on board
- 30-day dive insurance for your dives with us
- Discounted accommodation option available for the course duration
- 10% discount on additional diver-level training or dive equipment purchases
BIG DISCOUNTS ON PRIVATE ROOMS WITH AC & ENSUITE
With all of our courses you can make use of our private AC ensuite rooms with huge discounts.
When you´re learning to dive its important that you get a good night of sleep. During the length of all courses you can check in to our accommodation with big discounts! Have a look at our latest deals and prices here.
Message us to look at upgrades and for more info click here.
Book Your SSI Coral Identification Course
Unlock the underwater world with the SSI Coral Identification Specialty Course at Crystal Dive Koh Tao. In just one day, you’ll learn how to identify coral species found on Thailand’s tropical reefs and gain a deeper appreciation for the marine ecosystems around you.
Whether you’re curious about the difference between hard and soft corals or want to build your skills in tropical coral identification, this course will help you recognize reef-building species by shape, texture, and habitat. With the knowledge you gain, every future dive becomes more insightful and rewarding.
Ready to dive in? Book online now or contact us for availability.
฿5,500
Coral Identification
Capture Your Coral Identification Course Dives on Camera
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Make your coral identification course even more memorable with a personalised photo or video package from Crystal Images, our in-house underwater videography team.
Choose between a professionally edited 10-minute land and underwater video or a set of 10–15 high-resolution photographs that highlight your dive experience and the vibrant coral ecosystems you are learning to identify..
You can add this option when booking your course—just select the ‘video & photo’ upgrade at checkout.
Planning to dive with friends? Ask us about group bookings and additional media packages available.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I start my Coral ID Specialty Course every day?
In general, yes. We start our courses any given day. To secure your desired start date, we recommend booking your Coral ID Specialty Course online here. This will guarantee your placement in a small group of maximum 4 students per instructor.
Is it possible to change the schedule for the Coral ID Specialty Course?
Our schedules are flexible and we will do everything to adjust it to your travel plans. Please contact us to arrange for a schedule that suits you within the limits of the Coral ID Specialty Course performance requirements.
What are the rates for accommodation in my Coral ID Specialty Course?
For your Coral ID Specialty Course we offer accommodation in a private AC room (choice of Double or Twin) at a discounted rate for the standard course duration of 1 night. There are also upgrade options available for the adjacent Koh Tao Regal or Beach Club Resort. More information here or just contact us directly.
What are the minimum requirements to start my Coral ID Specialty Course?
The minimum requirements for you to enroll in the Coral ID Specialty Course are listed here. If you still have questions about specific requirements or an equivalent certification, please contact us directly.
How many students will be together with me in my Coral ID Specialty Course?
We pride ourselves to teach our Coral ID Specialty Course personal in groups of max. 4 students per instructor. If you still prefer a smaller group or a private course please contact us directly. On the other hand, if you travel in a bigger group, please let us know and we will arrange for multiple instructors to teach you together.
Will I see different dive sites during my Open Water Dives in the Coral ID Specialty Course?
We have 2 custom built dive boats and choose the dive sites based on your course requirements, comfort level and weather conditions. Generally, we change dive sites on a daily base, so you will dive at the best spots available for your Coral ID Specialty Course. More about our boats here.
Can I take a Go Pro on my dives for the Coral ID Specialty Course?
Currently, under Thai law, neither students nor instructors are allowed to use cameras during any course, except for specific photo/video courses. Our in-house video & photo company Crystal Images can either take professional photos or a broadcast quality video of you on your two dives on the Course. Please contact us or check out your options here.
What other courses can I take if I have some more time after my Coral ID Specialty Course?
We have put together some recommendations for you under this link for dive activities that you may find interesting after or together with your course. If you are interested in other activities, have a look at our shop and check out our multi-course packages as well.
Other Questions?
Please check out our general FAQ-Page which will answer most of your questions about Koh Tao, diving, weather conditions and everything else. Anything that cannot be answered there, please just contact us and we get right back to you!
