SSI Kids Diving Programs for Kids Under 12
At Crystal Dive Koh Tao, our SSI Kids Diving Programs offer exciting, age-appropriate SCUBA diving experiences for children. Whether your child is just dipping their toe in or ready for their first certification, we have an option for everyone.
The SSI Explorers Program is ideal for younger kids aged 8–9, introducing them to the underwater world through fun, pool-based training and optional shallow dives.
For children aged 10–14, the Junior Open Water Diver Course is a full certification program and the first step into real SCUBA diving for kids under 12. With expert instruction, child-sized gear, and a focus on both fun and safety, these diving courses for kids are an ideal way to build skills and confidence.
SSI Explorers Program
Designed especially for kids aged 8–9, the SSI Explorers Program is a fantastic way to introduce young adventurers to SCUBA diving in a safe and playful setting. It’s a great option for beginner SCUBA diving for children who are curious about the ocean but just a tad too young for the Junior Open Water Diver Course.
The day starts with an interactive theory session led by a certified instructor, who keeps everything fun and easy to understand. Kids then head to our custom-built pool for a hands-on diving experience using real SCUBA gear in a shallow, secure environment.
For those who want more, there’s an option to add two shallow ocean dives at a calm, sheltered site — always under the close supervision of an instructor.
This is more than just a diving activity. It’s a confidence-building, ocean-loving experience designed to inspire kids and spark a lifelong love for the sea.
SSI Junior Open Water Diver Course
For kids aged 10–14, the Junior Open Water Diver Course is the first full step into real SCUBA diving. As part of our SSI Kids Diving Program, these courses are internationally recognized and perfect for young divers ready to earn their first certification.
Before arrival, students complete digital learning online at their own pace, so they’re well-prepared and confident. Once on-site, the experience begins with an orientation session where they meet their instructor, review the course outline, and go over key safety information.
Day 1: Confined water training in our dedicated dive pool. Kids learn to use their equipment and practice essential SCUBA skills in a safe and controlled space.
Day 2: After a morning theory review, students take their first two open water dives at shallow, calm dive sites around Koh Tao under the supervision of an experienced instructor.
Day 3: The adventure continues with two more open water dives, completing their training and earning their Junior Open Water certification.
With child-friendly equipment, experienced instructors, and a strong emphasis on safety, this course is the ideal introduction to SCUBA diving for kids under 12 who are ready to become underwater explorers.
Course Prerequisites & Certification
Before enrolling in one of our SSI Kids Diving Program courses, it’s important to make sure your child meets a few basic requirements. These are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience for all young participants. Please review the prerequisites below for each program.
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Minimum Age
The minimum age depends on the program:
SSI Explorers Program – Children must be 8 years or older.
Junior Open Water Diver Course – Children must be 10 years or older.
These age requirements help ensure that every child is developmentally ready to participate safely in their chosen beginner SCUBA diving course.
Comfort in water
Your child doesn’t need to be an expert swimmer, but a basic level of comfort in the water is essential:
For SSI Explorers: Kids must be able to swim at least 12 meters unaided (without a flotation device).
For Junior Open Water: A water fitness evaluation is part of the course. Children must demonstrate the ability to float or tread water for 10 minutes and swim 200 meters without assistance.
These evaluations help ensure your child is ready for beginner SCUBA diving in both pool and ocean environments.
Medical Statement
All participants in our SSI Kids Diving Programs must complete a standard Medical Statement for SCUBA Diving. This form ensures that your child is medically fit to dive and must be co-signed by a parent or legal guardian.
You can download the current SSI medical form here. If any “yes” answers are checked on the form, a doctor’s clearance will be required before participation.
Certifications
Each diving course for kids has a different outcome when it comes to certification:
SSI Explorers Program: This is a non-certification experience program. Participants receive a digital recognition card in the SSI app to celebrate their day of diving and exploration.
Junior Open Water Diver Course: This is a full, internationally recognized SCUBA certification for kids.
- Ages 10–11: Certified to dive to 12 meters, always with a certified adult or dive professional.
- Ages 12–14: Certified to dive to 18 meters, also with a certified adult or dive professional.
- At age 15, the certification automatically upgrades to a standard Open Water Diver.
This course is the perfect foundational SCUBA diving for kids under 12 and will allow them to continue their dive education as they grow.
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 Kids Diving Program on Koh Tao
SSI Explorers Program (Ages 8–9)
Give your child the chance to discover the ocean with the SSI Explorers Program, a safe and exciting beginner SCUBA diving course for children aged 8–9.
Led by certified instructors, this full day experience includes fun pool-based sessions, interactive games, and basic snorkeling and SCUBA skills. It’s the perfect first step for kids under 12 curious about the underwater world.
Junior Open Water Diver Course (Ages 10–14)
The Junior Open Water Course is an SSI certification course and part of our beginner SCUBA diving courses for children on Koh Tao. This 3-day course includes digital learning, pool training, and 4 open water dives with a professional instructor. It’s the ultimate start for young divers who are ready to become adventurers.
Book through our regular Open Water Course page here.
฿4,000
Upgrade the experience with two guided ocean dives at a calm, shallow reef site. This add-on is available for an additional ฿2,000 and can be booked on-site.
Explorers
Upgrade the experience with two guided ocean dives at a calm, shallow reef site. This add-on is available for an additional ฿2,000 and can be booked on-site.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I start every day?
In general, yes. We start our courses any given day. To secure your desired start date, we recommend booking online HERE. This will guarantee your placement.
Is it possible to change the schedule?
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 Specialties performance requirements.
Is there a shorter option available?
Generally the programs require the time listed, however feel free to contact us at any time for more information.
What are the rates for accommodation?
For the SSI Explorers program we offer accommodation in a private AC room (choice of Single, Double or Twin) at a discounted rate for the standard course duration of 1 day. The Junior Open Water course offers a discounted rate for up to 4 days. 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?
The minimum requirements are listed here: COURSE PREREQUISITES. If you still have questions, please contact us directly.
How many students will be together with me?
We pride ourselves to teach our courses 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 arrange for multiple Instructors to teach you together.
Can I take a Go Pro on my dives?
Currently under Thai Law it is not possible to take a camera on any course. A better option may be to arrange for our In-House Video & Photo company Crystal Images to either take professional photos or a broadcast quality video of you on two of your dives. Please contact us.
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!
