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SSI vs PADI Diving Courses

If you’re thinking about starting your diving journey or looking to further your diving education, you may be curious about the differences between the two most popular diving organizations: SSI (Scuba Schools International, since 1970) and PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors, since 1966).


In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences between SSI and PADI, helping you decide which one is the best fit for you as a beginner or experienced diver. We’ll also share why SSI is becoming the preferred choice for many divers around the world and the benefits you will enjoy as a diver by choosing for SSI.



  1. Rich Coast Diving SSI - Career Center

  2. Similarities between SSI and PADI

  3. The benefits of choosing SSI

  4. Special SSI course offers with Rich Coast Diving



  1. Rich Coast Diving SSI - Career Center


Did you know that there are over 120 different scuba diving training agencies in the world? Historically PADI has been the world's largest Scuba Diving agency but in recent years dive shops worldwide are increasingly switching to SSI, while the reverse trend is rarely seen. Currently SSI is the fastest growing organization and now in many parts of the world the preferred training organisation.


Here at Rich Coast Diving it is our mission to provide the best quality training and service to our guests. After 32 years with PADI, we have chosen SSI as our preferred partner to better align with our commitment to excellence. And although we will still offer PADI courses to those less eager to makes the switch, let's dig into what stays the same and what are the benefits of moving to SSI as a diver.



Divers in Costa Rica


  1. Similarities between SSI and PADI


  • Safety & Fun: Regardless of which organization you choose, the fundamental principles of scuba diving remain consistent. Both SSI and PADI prioritize safety, education, and enjoyable experiences.


  • Global Recognition: Both SSI and PADI certifications are recognized worldwide, allowing you to dive anywhere.


  • Flexibility in Switching: You can switch between organizations anytime. If you have a PADI Open Water Diver certification, you can continue your education with SSI seamlessly and vice versa up to Divemaster level and the many specialty courses.


  • Course Equivalency: The SSI Open Water Diver certification is equivalent to the PADI Open Water Diver certification, with a similar course structure and a certification that qualifies you to dive up to 18m/60ft.



SSI vs PADI benefits of SSI for divers


  1. The benefits of choosing SSI


  • Flexible Learning Path: Unlike PADI’s rigid order of skills, SSI emphasizes the importance of personalized instruction and encourages instructors to adapt their teaching methods to suit the needs of individual students. This results in a more efficient and effective learning experience for students who may benefit different learning styles. 


    If a student struggles with a skill, it allows them to complete it later in training as long as all the course skill requirements are met before certification. This SSI approach enables the students to gain confidence naturally and effectively. 



  • Comprehensive eLearning: SSI’s online learning platform is more complete and fully integrated across all mobile devices and your computer. Your SSI digital learning syncs seamlessly with your free MySSI account. You can even download your course to study offline, like on a plane, and sync it once you’re back online. Course materials are available in over 40 languages and switching languages is easy with a simple button click. Plus, training material updates are free and available for a lifetime!



SSI online digital platform MySSI


  • Integrated Training System: The MySSI app offers a complete training system, logbook, and certifications all in one place. With 24/7 access, you can:


    • Access all your training materials, documentation, and certification cards.

    • Log every detail of your dives in the digital logbook.

    • Enjoy free online training courses and updates

    • Plan your dive travel and marine life encounters

    • Connect with the entire SSI network and more!




  1. Special SSI course offers with Rich Coast Diving


As a Career Center we are awarded with the highest rating in the industry. But independently of the certification agency, at Rich Coast Diving, our passionate and knowledgeable instructors are dedicated to providing personalized attention and ensuring every student has a fun and rewarding learning experience.


We are excited that you choose to take your course with Rich Coast Diving, and therefore we have created some great offers!


If you choose to do your course with SSI, we offer you 10% discount on your course! So, with SSI the price of the Open Water Course is $535 incl. eLearning, dive equipment, dive computer rental, certification fees and taxes.





For more information about SSI and PADI Diving courses, Contact Rich Coast Diving


Mrs. Céline Monfort

WhatsApp +506 8610 0914

Logo Rich Coast Diving







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