The most common time of year to witness these great creatures passing through is between March and October. However, there have been sightings in December, January and February. There are many PADI certificated dive companies on Koh Samui and Koh Tao.

Recommendations in choosing PADI vs SSI To summarize: Both PADI and SSI offer world-class diving training around the world. They both maintain high standards of practice across the globe. SSI is generally cheaper, so if you are looking for a lower price, you can do your SSI Open Water.

Scuba diving prices can vary, depending on which PADI course you take, whether it's online, and whether you need to rent scuba diving equipment. As a rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between $200 and $700 for an open-water diving course.

A PADI Divemaster who has been a certified diver for six months may enroll in the PADI Instructor Development Course. You also need: At least 60 logged dives and 100 dives to attend an IE. Emergency First Response Primary and Secondary Care (CPR and First Aid) training within the past 24 months.