Explore andaman sea and it’s vibrant marine life with yu dive
Open Water Diver Course Khao Lak
Become a certified scuba diver in the calm waters of the Andaman Sea
Open Water Diver Course Khao Lak
Your first step into the underwater world starts here.
The Open Water Diver Course in Khao Lak is your gateway to becoming a certified scuba diver and exploring the ocean anywhere in the world. With YU Dive Khao Lak, you’ll learn in a safe, relaxed environment with personal attention, small groups, and ideal conditions in the Andaman Sea.
Why Take the Open Water Diver Course?
The Open Water Diver certification is the world’s most popular beginner diving program. After completing the course, you will be certified to dive up to 18 meters, rent scuba equipment, and join fun dives across the globe.
This course is perfect if you want to start your diving journey, build strong foundational skills, and experience the beautiful marine life of Khao Lak and the Similan Islands.
Why Choose YU Dive Khao Lak?
At YU Dive, we keep things personal and comfortable.
- Small groups for better safety and more attention
- Experienced, patient instructors who make learning easy
- Modern, well-maintained dive equipment
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere
- Perfect training conditions in our pool and the clear waters of Khao Lak & Similan Islands
We don’t rush you – we teach at your pace so you feel confident and enjoy every moment.
Course Structure – 3 Days
A perfect balance of classroom learning, shallow-water practice, and real ocean diving.
Day 1 – Theory + Pool Session
- Introduction to scuba diving
- Safety basics & equipment setup
- Shallow-water practice in the pool
- Breathing, buoyancy, mask skills & emergency procedures
Day 2 – Open Water Dives 1 & 2
Your first ocean dives in a relaxed, safe environment.
- Explore the reef up to 12m
- Practice buoyancy
- Build confidence underwater
Day 3 – Open Water Dives 3 & 4
Deeper dives up to 18m.
- Improve control & comfort
- Enjoy real underwater life
- Final skills & certification
After completing the course, you will become a certified Open Water Diver.
What’s Included
Everything you need – no hidden costs.
- Professional, licensed instructor
- All diving equipment
- Pool training
- 4 open water dives
- Certification & digital materials
- Snacks, drinks & lunch on diving days
- Insurance
What You Need
- Minimum age: 10 years
- Ability to swim 200m and float for 10 minutes
- Good health, no major medical issues
Course Price
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Open Water Diver Course | 14,500 THB | Full 3-day course, equipment, pool, 4 dives, certification |
| Upgrade to Surin Islands | 6,800 THB | Complete course with final dives in the Surin Islands |
What to Bring
- Towel
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen
- A smile and some excitement!
Open Water Diver Course – Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the course take?
Usually 3 days, comfortable pace.
Do I need to be an expert swimmer?
No – just basic swimming ability.
Is the certification valid worldwide?
Yes, your certification is recognized everywhere.
Can I continue to the Advanced course afterwards?
Absolutely – your next step is the Advanced Open Water Diver Course, and we can help you plan it.
Discover More Diving Courses
After completing the Open Water Diver course, many divers continue their training to gain more experience and explore new types of dives. You can also explore our diving courses in Khao Lak to discover the full range of certifications available with YU Dive Khao Lak.
Ready to Start Your Open Water Course?
Take the first step into the underwater world and earn your internationally recognised scuba certification while diving in the beautiful Andaman Sea.
Contact YU Dive Khao Lak today to check course schedules, availability and upcoming start dates.
What Our Customers Say
James Haldiman
08:42 12 May 26
Great place to take your open water course with Aleks. Came at the very end of the season and he was very accommodating for both the weather and myself. Felt safe and confident thanks to his teaching and calmness. Would highly recommend for anyone looking to dive in Khao Lak!!
elisabeth bissiere
08:33 29 Apr 26
Great experience. Aleksandar is really kind and helpful, he gives good advices and try to accommodate your requests. We were diving in small group (2-3 pax). Brand new gears as well. I recommend!
Tamara Rogentin
11:16 19 Apr 26
Simply WOW – Yu Dive in Khao Lak completely exceeded our expectations!
Aleks, the owner and our guide, is absolutely fantastic. Super relaxed, incredibly competent, and you can immediately tell how much experience and passion he has for diving. We felt safe and completely comfortable with him at all times.
I’d had some trouble equalizing the pressure since my last dive in Marsa Alam, but that wasn’t an issue at all. He gave me all the time I needed and didn’t stress me out.
The 12 dives were amazing, beautiful spots, and so much marine life. Exactly what you want!
He organized everything perfectly.
For us, definitely one of the best diving experiences ever – we’ll be back! 🤿💙 A clear recommendation for anyone who wants to dive in Khao Lak!
Aleks, the owner and our guide, is absolutely fantastic. Super relaxed, incredibly competent, and you can immediately tell how much experience and passion he has for diving. We felt safe and completely comfortable with him at all times.
I’d had some trouble equalizing the pressure since my last dive in Marsa Alam, but that wasn’t an issue at all. He gave me all the time I needed and didn’t stress me out.
The 12 dives were amazing, beautiful spots, and so much marine life. Exactly what you want!
He organized everything perfectly.
For us, definitely one of the best diving experiences ever – we’ll be back! 🤿💙 A clear recommendation for anyone who wants to dive in Khao Lak!
Volker Ohmes
10:23 17 Apr 26
Optimal atmosphere / quiet, but not isolated (Bungslow not directly on roads) / grocery store right next door / 2-minute walk to town and nearest beach restaurants / 2 pools in the resort —> Relaxation and recreation guaranteed.
Abby Wong
11:50 08 Apr 26
Overall, everything was well organized and easy from start to finish. I’d definitely recommend Yu Dive.
I completed my PADI Open Water certification with Yu Dive and had a fantastic experience. With planning the trip, Alek was helpful and responsive, and was able to accommodate my request to combine the training with a trip to the Surin Islands. I ended up completing the course on an overnight liveaboard, which was a great way to learn, and we also got to dive at Richelieu Rock.
Alek was a great instructor – calm, clear, and easy to learn from. I felt safe and comfortable throughout the training. He also knew the reef well and pointed out some really nice marine life and dive spots along the way.
Thanks again for everything Alek! Hope to dive with you again in the future!
I completed my PADI Open Water certification with Yu Dive and had a fantastic experience. With planning the trip, Alek was helpful and responsive, and was able to accommodate my request to combine the training with a trip to the Surin Islands. I ended up completing the course on an overnight liveaboard, which was a great way to learn, and we also got to dive at Richelieu Rock.
Alek was a great instructor – calm, clear, and easy to learn from. I felt safe and comfortable throughout the training. He also knew the reef well and pointed out some really nice marine life and dive spots along the way.
Thanks again for everything Alek! Hope to dive with you again in the future!
charlie smith
10:23 07 Apr 26
Highly recommend!
Alek went above and beyond for us. Extremely good communication throughout. Very thorough and professional Open Water paid course. Good knowledge of the reef and dive conditions in every briefing.
Would book with Yu Dive again.
Alek went above and beyond for us. Extremely good communication throughout. Very thorough and professional Open Water paid course. Good knowledge of the reef and dive conditions in every briefing.
Would book with Yu Dive again.
Nick Knelange
09:48 30 Mar 26
If you’re looking for a truly exceptional dive experience in Khao Lak, Yu Dive is simply the best in the area. From start to finish, safety is clearly their top priority. You feel completely confident and well taken care of on every dive.
The dive sites themselves are absolutely stunning, with beautiful underwater scenery and unforgettable marine life encounters. Every trip feels thoughtfully planned to give you the best possible experience.
A special mention has to go to Aleks, who is outstanding. Friendly, professional, and always communicating clearly, Aleks makes everything smooth and enjoyable, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver.
Overall, Yu Dive Khao Lak delivers a 5-star experience in every way. Highly recommended!
The dive sites themselves are absolutely stunning, with beautiful underwater scenery and unforgettable marine life encounters. Every trip feels thoughtfully planned to give you the best possible experience.
A special mention has to go to Aleks, who is outstanding. Friendly, professional, and always communicating clearly, Aleks makes everything smooth and enjoyable, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver.
Overall, Yu Dive Khao Lak delivers a 5-star experience in every way. Highly recommended!
Robert Hollis
09:09 26 Mar 26
Recently had the pleasure of vacationing in Khao Lak and was looking to do a couple of “holiday dives”.
Travelling from the UK I searched online and found Yu Dive in Khao Lak. Messaged to obtain information prior to leaving the UK and received attentive, helpful and friendly responses from Aleks.
I hadn’t dived for a couple of years so needed a refresher for an advanced PADI licence. All arranged without issue with a local dive to refresh for a fabulous boat dive out to the Surin islands a few days later. Transport and top quality scubapro dive gear provided which was pretty much brand new.
I would recommend Yu Dive and Aleks to anyone looking for diving in the area. Nothing was too much trouble and was well organised.
Travelling from the UK I searched online and found Yu Dive in Khao Lak. Messaged to obtain information prior to leaving the UK and received attentive, helpful and friendly responses from Aleks.
I hadn’t dived for a couple of years so needed a refresher for an advanced PADI licence. All arranged without issue with a local dive to refresh for a fabulous boat dive out to the Surin islands a few days later. Transport and top quality scubapro dive gear provided which was pretty much brand new.
I would recommend Yu Dive and Aleks to anyone looking for diving in the area. Nothing was too much trouble and was well organised.
Antonia Jeličić
02:10 22 Mar 26
A huge shoutout to Aleksandar for being an incredible diving instructor. Not only is he highly skilled, but his attitude towards students is wonderful. He was encouraging, attentive, and made us feel like we were in the best hands. Passing our Open Water course with him was a highlight of our trip. Highly recommended!”
Thank you!
Thank you!
goran žeželj
19:18 12 Mar 26
My wife and I visited Khao Lak for the first time and had an incredible holiday from the moment we arrived in Thailand. Aleks from YU Dive organised everything for us, from the airport transfer to an amazing overnight trip to Khao Sok National Park. My wife also had a fantastic diving trip to the Similan Islands which was one of the highlights of our holiday. Everything was perfectly organised and made our trip completely stress-free. We loved every moment of our time in Khao Lak. Thank you Aleks and YU Dive for such a memorable experience!
Milan Ljuboja
16:11 10 Mar 26
Great communication from start to finish! Aleks from YU Dive organised a truly memorable holiday for me and my family in Khao Lak. Everything was easy and perfectly arranged. Thank you so much!
Ana Nikolic
09:22 10 Mar 26
I joined a snorkeling trip to the Surin Islands organised by YU Dive Khao Lak and it was honestly one of the best experiences of my trip. It was my first time snorkeling and everything was perfectly organised, making the whole day very easy and enjoyable. The water was crystal clear and the snorkeling was amazing. Highly recommend YU Dive if you want to visit the Surin Islands from Khao Lak.
Aleksandar Perth
07:55 08 Mar 26
I always wanted to try diving and this was the perfect place to start. I did my Open Water Diver course with Aleks at YU Dive Khao Lak and had a fantastic time. He is a very professional and patient instructor who makes learning to dive easy and enjoyable. The dives around Khao Lak were beautiful and I always felt safe and well looked after. Highly recommend YU Dive if you are looking for a dive shop in Khao Lak.
Hrvoje Goldner
12:35 02 Mar 26
I had a great diving experience with Alex. He was attentive, detailed, and made sure everyone — from beginners to experienced divers — felt safe and confident underwater. His calm approach and professionalism really stood out. Highly recommend diving with him, and I’ll definitely be back!
Lucija Cotic
14:55 01 Mar 26
I had an absolutely great experience with Alex. He was extremely attentive, careful, and very patient throughout the entire learning process. As a beginner, it was very important for me to feel safe and relaxed, and with him I truly felt calm and in good hands. He explained the basics of diving clearly and thoroughly, without rushing. His experience and professionalism were evident at every moment. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants to learn to dive in a safe and comfortable environment. I will definitely come back for more dives!
Peiter
03:55 27 Feb 26
“My dive at Richelieu Rock was simply spectacular! A huge thank you to my companion Dajana: she was incredibly attentive and caring. Especially at a challenging spot like this, there’s nothing better than feeling so well looked after. I can’t praise her highly enough! My only regret is that I was only there for a few days – otherwise, I definitely would have dived with her more often.”
vbezbradica
20:21 11 Feb 26
I’ve been diving with Aleks for over 20 years, and the dives at the Similan and Surin Islands, Richelieu Rock, and Koh Bon were by far the most enjoyable and memorable. The underwater landscapes are stunning, with some of the richest marine life in the world. I would highly recommend this experience to everyone. Thanks, Aleks – see you again very soon!
sonja katic
11:15 16 Jan 26
Our trip to the Similan Islands with YU Dive Thailand was wonderful. Everything was exactly as agreed, and the entire day was very well organized. The organizer was attentive and helpful, making sure we had everything we needed throughout the excursion.
We particularly want to highlight the amazing snorkeling experience. It was a joy to see so many different types of colorful fish while observing the vibrant corals. We were even lucky enough to spot some large sea turtles!
The beaches and the sea are truly beautiful – like a paradise. We enjoyed the phenomenal natural scenery, and the overall nature within this national park is stunning. It was a memorable day and we highly recommend their services to anyone visiting the area.
We particularly want to highlight the amazing snorkeling experience. It was a joy to see so many different types of colorful fish while observing the vibrant corals. We were even lucky enough to spot some large sea turtles!
The beaches and the sea are truly beautiful – like a paradise. We enjoyed the phenomenal natural scenery, and the overall nature within this national park is stunning. It was a memorable day and we highly recommend their services to anyone visiting the area.
Aaron Lee
13:00 30 Dec 25
My wife Rymma completed her PADI Open Water certification with Aleks, and he was incredibly patient, caring, and thorough throughout the entire course. He was always punctual — often arriving early to the session — and well-prepared for every session.
During her first dive she experienced some panic attacks, but Aleks calmly reassured her, gave her time to relax, and returned to the water with her an hour later — and she succeeded. His teaching style is supportive, confidence-building, and truly top-notch.
After the course, we also completed two-tank dives with him in the Similan Islands, and the experience was fantastic from start to finish.
Thank you for teaching Rymma, Aleks — you did a fantastic job! We hope to dive with you again soon.
During her first dive she experienced some panic attacks, but Aleks calmly reassured her, gave her time to relax, and returned to the water with her an hour later — and she succeeded. His teaching style is supportive, confidence-building, and truly top-notch.
After the course, we also completed two-tank dives with him in the Similan Islands, and the experience was fantastic from start to finish.
Thank you for teaching Rymma, Aleks — you did a fantastic job! We hope to dive with you again soon.
nick chung
12:55 19 Dec 25
If you are looking for a shop that put customers’ experience & quality come first, Yu Dive with Aleks would be the one you shouldn’t miss.
This is not the first we were diving with Aleks. Every time we get under the water with Aleks the feeling is the same that you will know you are in good hands. He is caring, considerate, patient, familiar with diving area. He took care of everyone not only in the water, but start from the pier, on the boat and after dive. You will feel safe, comfortable and built-up confident to dive with him.
And, this time we were doing the AOW course with him. We enjoy the time spend with him and bring us such a great memories. Thanks for showing us a glimpse of the best of under sea in the area.
It just can’t enough for saying. Simply go & dive with him. A great caring and encouraging Serbian Dive Instructor & Dive Guide.
Hvala puno.
This is not the first we were diving with Aleks. Every time we get under the water with Aleks the feeling is the same that you will know you are in good hands. He is caring, considerate, patient, familiar with diving area. He took care of everyone not only in the water, but start from the pier, on the boat and after dive. You will feel safe, comfortable and built-up confident to dive with him.
And, this time we were doing the AOW course with him. We enjoy the time spend with him and bring us such a great memories. Thanks for showing us a glimpse of the best of under sea in the area.
It just can’t enough for saying. Simply go & dive with him. A great caring and encouraging Serbian Dive Instructor & Dive Guide.
Hvala puno.
Mattias Sanseovic
13:22 18 Dec 25
Great diving center! They organised for us not only great diving but land tour trips aswell and it was on spot from start to finish! Aleks is very helpful and listened to our wishes. Would highly recommend.
Sandra Dejanovic
19:22 18 Nov 25
An absolutely phenomenal experience-a sense of safety, enjoyment and a brand-new adventure!
We felt all of that while diving with Yu Dive Khao Lak and Aleksandar, our instructor.
Thank you, Sale, for your patience, experience and knowledge, which made it possible for me to relax completely and enjoy my own “underwater feature film.” I’m grateful to you for helping me push the boundaries of what I thought was possible once again!
See you next year!
We felt all of that while diving with Yu Dive Khao Lak and Aleksandar, our instructor.
Thank you, Sale, for your patience, experience and knowledge, which made it possible for me to relax completely and enjoy my own “underwater feature film.” I’m grateful to you for helping me push the boundaries of what I thought was possible once again!
See you next year!
Tatjana Žižić
13:51 17 Nov 25
A fantastic organization with an excellent, responsible instructor. I truly recommend this experience to both beginners and experienced divers. The dives are stunning, and you’ll witness an incredibly vibrant and colorful underwater world! Richelieu Rock is an absolute must — the highlight of all our dives.
We stayed on a liveaboard and were extremely satisfied: the equipment is new, the crew is always ready to help, and the accommodation and food are exceptional.
We also ventured into the jungle, slept in complete wilderness, and enjoyed all the beauty of untouched nature.
I wholeheartedly recommend YU Dive, especially to people from the former Yugoslavia, because sharing the language — and the mentality — makes the whole experience even better.
We stayed on a liveaboard and were extremely satisfied: the equipment is new, the crew is always ready to help, and the accommodation and food are exceptional.
We also ventured into the jungle, slept in complete wilderness, and enjoyed all the beauty of untouched nature.
I wholeheartedly recommend YU Dive, especially to people from the former Yugoslavia, because sharing the language — and the mentality — makes the whole experience even better.
Bojana Novakovic
11:12 17 Nov 25
My diving experience with Saša was positive and inspiring. He helped me overcome all the fears and uncertainty that I had as a beginner.
The preparation for each dive was concise and relevant. During diving he was very attentive, and he monitored us very closely, therefore I felt very safe at each moment. I would definitely recommend Saša as an experienced dive master. I plan to come to Saša’s diving school again and continue this amazing underwater journey.
The preparation for each dive was concise and relevant. During diving he was very attentive, and he monitored us very closely, therefore I felt very safe at each moment. I would definitely recommend Saša as an experienced dive master. I plan to come to Saša’s diving school again and continue this amazing underwater journey.
Tatjana Žižić
09:35 15 Nov 25
Branislava Majstorović
07:11 15 Nov 25
I had an amazing experience learning to dive with Saša at Yu Dive School. His patience and clear, calm instruction style made every lesson enjoyable and confidence-building.
He pays incredible attention to detail and always makes safety the top priority, which helped me feel completely comfortable throughout the entire course.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely supportive diving instructor, I can’t recommend Saša enough. Truly outstanding!
He pays incredible attention to detail and always makes safety the top priority, which helped me feel completely comfortable throughout the entire course.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely supportive diving instructor, I can’t recommend Saša enough. Truly outstanding!
George T
02:52 14 Nov 25
I had a wonderful time on Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock. Apart from the excellent diving sites, my dive guide, Alex, was also exceptional. I enjoyed every moment, and I will surely book dives with Yu Dive again!
Sanja Pesic
08:12 13 Nov 25
I’ve been diving with Aleks in the Similan and Surin Islands, including Richelieu Rock for 3 years and his support while taking underwater photos is priceless. Diving with him and Yu Dive means being extra safe and super fun. It is always a great pleasure to come back to Khao Lak. I highly recommend it.
Gordana Jovanovic
17:00 12 Nov 25
If you want an unforgettable adventure and enjoyment YuDive is for you! The best instructor ever, you will feel safe and satisfied! Recommendations from the heart for the instructor! Don’t miss it!
01
Explore
Discover the best diving spots.
Begin your adventure by exploring the stunning dive sites around Khao Lak, where vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters await. Our daily trips cater to divers of all levels, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
02
Review
Enjoy a day filled with diving and adventure.
Experience the thrill of diving in some of the most beautiful locations, including the Similan Islands and Surin Islands. Our experienced guides will ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the day, making it a perfect outing for both beginners and seasoned divers.
03
Schedule
A detailed itinerary for the day trip.
Get ready for an exciting day!
04
Book
Secure your spot for an unforgettable diving experience with YU Dive, where adventure and safety come first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best diving spots?
The best diving spots include the Similan Islands, Surin Islands, and Richelieu Rock, known for their vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.
What should I bring for a day trip?
For a day trip, bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and a refillable water bottle. We provide diving gear, but feel free to bring your own if preferred. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful moments!
How long do the daily trips last?
Daily trips typically last around 8 to 10 hours, including travel time and diving.
Is food provided on the trips?
Yes, lunch is included in our daily trips, featuring a selection of local Thai dishes to keep you energized throughout the day.
What is the maximum group size for diving trips?
Our daily diving trips maintain a maximum group size of 4 divers per guide, ensuring personalized attention and safety for all participants.