Bali: SSI Basic Diver Day Experience & Two Guided Dives

Summary

Scuba diving Bali day trip with SSI guide and beginner lessons

You’ll meet your SSI instructor in Bali for a small-group intro to scuba diving—starting with basic theory over coffee or tea, then heading out for two guided dives (up to 12 meters). Expect hands-on help getting comfortable underwater, real-time tips from your local guide, and time to just float quietly among Bali’s marine life. It’s less about perfection—more about those first surreal moments below the surface.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater? I did — honestly, I was a little nervous walking into the dive shop in Bali that morning. There was this faint smell of sea salt and coffee, and our instructor Wayan greeted us with a grin that made me feel like maybe I could actually do this. We were just four in the group, which helped; no big crowds or pressure. The first forty minutes were all about the basics — how to clear your mask, why you shouldn’t hold your breath (seriously), and some stuff about pressure that sounded scarier than it felt later on.

Getting into the gear felt clumsy at first — wetsuit sticking to my arms, mask fogging up because I kept breathing too hard. Wayan just laughed and showed me how to spit in the mask (I know, but it worked). The water at zero meters was cooler than I expected, almost sharp on my cheeks. We practiced skills right there with Wayan holding onto us if we needed it. My heart was thumping so loud I thought everyone could hear it through the regulator. But then… there was this moment when everything went quiet except for my own bubbles and a flash of blue fish darting past. That’s when I forgot about nerves for a bit.

You can go for a second dive after lunch if you want — no more drills, just actual diving down to 12 meters. Some people in our group skipped it (maybe tired? Or just happy with one), but I went again because I didn’t want the feeling to end yet. The light gets different down there; softer somehow, greens turning deeper. Wayan pointed out a nudibranch — tiny thing I’d never have noticed on my own — and made this little “okay” sign underwater that still makes me smile thinking about it now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Basic Diver One Day Experience

• Meet instructor and students
• Attend 40-minute dive theory
• Try first scuba dive (0-5m)
• Optional second dive (up to 12m)

Top questions

How long does the Bali basic diver experience take?

The program takes about 6-8 hours total, including theory and two dives.

Is previous scuba experience required?

No prior experience is needed for this SSI Try Scuba Diving program.

What is the maximum depth for beginners?

The first dive goes up to 5 meters; the optional second dive reaches 12 meters.

How many people are in each group?

The ratio is a maximum of 4 students per instructor.

Are both dives included in the price?

The first dive is included; the second dive is available for an additional price.

Is equipment provided?

Yes, all SCUBA equipment is included as part of your day.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is included; only coffee or tea is provided.

Are there health restrictions?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of all SCUBA equipment, guidance from an SSI professional instructor throughout both dives (with direct contact during skills practice), plus coffee or tea between sessions. You can choose to add a second dive at extra cost—all logistics handled so you can focus on learning and enjoying Bali’s underwater world.