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faq

Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here is a shortlist of our most frequently asked questions. However, if your question hasn’t been answered below, simply send us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Certifications & Recognition

What’s the difference between PADI, SSI & CMAS?

Very little! Each individual training agency is 100% recognized throughout the world. Click here to have a look at our PADI vs. SSI page for more details.

Are the certification cards of PADI and SSI recognized all over the world?

Yes, it doesn’t matter with which organization you have learned to dive. So if a PADI Open Water diver for example wants to dive with an SSI Dive center, that’s perfectly fine. This counts certification cards of all dive organizations.

I have done my Open Water Diver course with PADI, can I do my Advanced Course with SSI or the other way around?

Yes, you can cross between PADI and SSI as much as you like for the recreational dive levels. Their levels are quite similar and certification of another dive organization is totally accepted. As noted all standards are set forth by the RSTC (Recreational Scuba Training Council).

If I forgot to bring my certification card with me, will I still be able to dive?

Both PADI and SSI have an online system and since we are affiliated with both PADI and SSI, we will be able to look you up. If a dive center is not affiliated with the organization you have done your course with, they can contact them to see if you are in the system. A signed logbook also helps.

If I forgot to bring my certification card with me and I don’t show up in the system, will I still be able to dive?

No, we need to see proof of certification before we take you on a dive, regardless of training agency or experience level.

Health, Safety & Logistics

Do I need to have a medical before scuba diving?

It is not a pre-requisite to have a medical before scuba diving, however if you have a pre-existing medical condition which affects your ears, sinus, respiratory and circulatory systems, or have had recent surgery it is advisable to consult a Diving Physician before you leave home. Before starting a diving course you must go through a medical questionnaire. (Click here to download the medical questionnaire)

Do I need to have dive insurance?

If you do a lot of diving it is always good to get your own insurance. Note that every Life Aquatic customer is covered by the company’s dive insurance. Entry-level SSI students have free coverage for decompression sickness treatment within the duration of the course.

What medical facilities/equipment do you have available on land and on the dive boat?

We have oxygen and a well equipped medical kit on our boat and on land & every member of our dive staff is a certified DAN Oxygen Provider. There are several international hospitals on Koh Samui as well as a decompression chamber.

Organisation & Accompagnants

I want to do the Open Water course with my family. Does everyone need to buy their own manual?

When doing PADI Courses – Yes, every student needs to purchase their own manual. SSI does not require this – you are welcome to purchase one manual, or more – up to you.

I am traveling with non-divers, what can they do when I am diving?

Koh Samui has lots to offer if you’re not diving, excellent snorkeling & boat trips around the islands, various water sports, Kayaking, rock climbing & mountain biking, yoga, or even Muay Thai Kickboxing! Thai massage & cookery courses are popular, with a wide variety of restaurants Koh Samui has everything to offer in the way of cuisine from street stalls selling traditional food to exclusive fine dining.

I’m going to Koh Tao next, which dive school do you recommend?

Big Blue Diving !

Health & Fitness to Div

Can I dive if I have heart disease, high blood pressure, or use a pacemaker?

You may be able to dive, but only with written medical clearance from a certified cardiologist.

Details: Conditions like coronary artery disease, irregular heartbeat, or the use of a pacemaker increase the risks associated with changes in pressure and physical exertion underwater. A doctor must confirm you are fit for diving.

Can I dive if I have asthma or other lung conditions like emphysema?

It depends on the severity of your condition. A medical certificate from a pulmonologist is required.

Diving affects your respiratory system directly. Pressure changes may trigger breathing difficulties or even lung injuries. Medical assessment is essential to ensure safety.

Is it safe to dive if I have a history of seizures or epilepsy?

Diving is generally not recommended unless you’ve been seizure-free for more than 5 years without medication and are cleared by a neurologist.

A seizure underwater can cause unconsciousness and drowning. This condition is considered high risk unless strictly managed and evaluated by a specialist.

Can I dive while taking regular medication?

Yes, as long as your medication does not impair your physical or mental performance and you’re cleared by your physician.

Some medications may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blood pressure changes. Always disclose your medications and consult your doctor before diving.

I previously suffered from decompression sickness or lung barotrauma. Can I dive again?

Possibly, but you’ll need a thorough evaluation and approval from a diving medicine specialist.

Any prior dive injury must be fully assessed, as underlying conditions could increase the risk of recurrence during future dives.

I dive if I’m pregnant?

Diving is not recommended during pregnancy.

The effects of pressure changes on the developing fetus are not fully understood, and diving while pregnant is considered unsafe by all major diving agencies.

What if I have severe allergies or a history of anaphylaxis?

You can dive, but you must inform your dive team, carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), and provide a medical clearance.

Allergic reactions in remote dive locations can be life-threatening. Preparation and clear communication with your dive team are crucial.