Imagine turning a tropical getaway into a lifelong skill. That’s exactly what this 5-day scuba certification tour in Cebu offers. For $550 per person, you’ll learn to dive confidently with both PDA Open Water and PADI Advanced certifications — a certificate upgrade that can open doors to underwater adventures worldwide. The trip includes comfortable double accommodations, meals, and even a lively Korean BBQ celebration, all set in the beautiful Visayas region of the Philippines.
What we love about this experience is how efficiently it packs two certifications into just five days — perfect for busy travelers wanting a meaningful, skill-based trip. The instructors are experienced, and all gear is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment or booking separate courses. Plus, the group size is small, making for personalized attention.
One potential consideration is the schedule—training runs from early morning to late afternoon, so it’s intense but rewarding. Also, if you’re tempted by night diving — an optional add-on for $50 — it’s best to book early, as space may be limited.
This trip suits adventurous travelers who want more than just a vacation — those eager to gain a valuable skill while enjoying the vibrant local culture. If you’re looking for a practical, comprehensive dive course combined with fun and good value, this tour hits the mark.
Key Points
- Two certifications in one trip: Get both PDA Open Water and PADI Advanced in just five days.
- All-inclusive package: Accommodations, meals, equipment, and airport transfers are covered.
- Small group experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized instruction.
- Extra fun included: A lively Korean BBQ party adds a social and cultural touch.
- Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Additional options: Night diving is available as an optional extra.
In-Depth Review of the Cebu Certification Trip
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Location and Setting
Cebu, in the Philippines’ Visayas region, is a popular hub for travelers seeking warm waters, vibrant marine life, and friendly local culture. The tour meets near Blue Reef Resort and Nalusuan Warp, which situates you conveniently close to prime diving spots. The setting offers a relaxed island vibe with lush scenery and crystal-clear waters—ideal for learning to dive and soaking in the scenery afterward.
Accommodation and Meals
Your stay is in a clean, comfortable double room at the resort, with breakfast and lunch included daily. The convenience of having meals provided lifts some of the logistical worries—especially after long training days. While dinner is not included, there are plenty of local restaurants nearby, giving you a chance to sample Filipino cuisine or international options.
Training Schedule and Content
The core of the trip revolves around eight hours of daily training from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a schedule carefully designed to build your skills progressively. The course combines classroom sessions with practical exercises in the water. The small group setting helps instructors give personalized feedback, which can be invaluable, especially if you’re new to diving.
A key feature is that you will earn two certifications — the PDA Open Water and the PADI Advanced — which are recognized internationally. This dual certification means you’re qualified for a wider range of diving experiences, from shallow reef exploring to more challenging dives.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat You’ll Learn
Expect to cover the basics of scuba equipment handling, safety procedures, and underwater communication during the Open Water course. The Advanced course expands on this, introducing you to navigation, deep diving, and night diving (if added). The training aims to make you confident underwater, and according to reviews, the instructors are patient and thorough.
Additional Activities and Social Elements
After a day of training, you’ll enjoy a Korean BBQ party — a lively event that encourages camaraderie among participants. This social aspect adds to the trip’s appeal, making it more than just a course but a mini vacation with new friends.
Cost and Value
At $550, this package offers remarkable value considering it includes all training, equipment, accommodations, meals, airport transfers, and the social event. When you compare it to standalone certification courses, which can be significantly more expensive, this trip stands out for its inclusiveness and convenience.
What’s Not Included
Dinners are on your own, providing flexibility to explore local cuisine. If you’d like to do night diving, you can add it for $50, but it’s worth noting that space may be limited, so planning ahead is advisable. Also, if you prefer a single room, there’s a small extra charge of $20 per night, which might be worth considering if you value privacy.
The Experience From Participants
Many reviews praise the professional yet friendly instructors, highlighting how they made complex concepts understandable. One diver said, “The training was intense but rewarding, and I appreciated how all equipment was provided—made everything so much easier.” Others enjoyed the social aspect of the BBQ, describing it as a fun way to unwind after days of learning.
Practicalities and Tips
- Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, cash, and a hair tie for comfort.
- Check your schedule to ensure you can commit fully to the intense daily program.
- Consider the optional night dive if you’re eager for a deeper experience — just remember to book early.
- If you’re traveling solo, the small group size makes it easy to connect and make friends.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to learn how to scuba dive or upgrade their skills in a tropical setting. It suits those who value comprehensive training, want to finish with two certifications, and enjoy a social atmosphere. It’s also perfect if you appreciate good value, as all essentials are included, and the experience delivers more than just a standard certification course.
Final Thoughts
This Cebu trip offers a rare combination of efficiency, quality instruction, and fun social elements. For just $550, you gain not only two internationally recognized certifications but also the chance to enjoy the beautiful marine environment of the Philippines. The included accommodations, meals, and lively BBQ party make this a well-rounded experience, especially suited for those looking to turn their holiday into a meaningful achievement.
While the schedule is full, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the end of five days will be well worth the effort. Whether you’re a novice eager to start your diving journey or someone looking to rapidly upgrade your skills, this course offers a practical, affordable way to achieve your underwater goals.
FAQ
How many days does the course last?
The course runs for five days, with training sessions from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, making it a compact and intense learning experience.
Are all the necessary equipment included?
Yes, all required training equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own gear.
What is included in the price?
The $550 fee covers four nights of accommodation, meals (breakfast and lunch), the Korean BBQ party, all training equipment, and airport pickup.
Can I do night diving?
Night diving is available as an optional add-on for $50, but it requires an extra reservation.
What if I want a private room?
A single-room supplement of $20 per night applies if you prefer to stay alone.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility before booking.
This course provides a practical, fun, and rewarding way to earn two certifications in one trip. It’s perfect for those eager to combine a tropical vacation with a valuable new skill, all at a very fair price.
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