The RAID Open Water 20 is a 3.5-day certification course that gives you the skills, knowledge, and confidence to dive safely to 20 meters. Once complete, you’ll be certified to dive anywhere in the world.
Learn with us at Hydronauts Diving Resort in Koh Tao in small groups. Our experienced instructors will give you the personal attention you deserve, and make sure you don’t just earn a card — you become a real diver, ready for adventures wherever the ocean takes you.
Your course kicks off at 4pm with a relaxed orientation where you’ll meet your instructor, go over the schedule, and chat about what you’ll be learning. No diving yet, just a chance to settle in and get excited for what’s ahead.
In the morning, you’ll review your dive theory with your instructor and get your questions answered. After a short lunch break, it’s time for the pool, where you’ll get hands-on with your gear, learn how to move and breathe underwater, and master the essential skills that will set you up for the ocean.
You’ll finish your theory in the morning, then head out on the boat for your first two ocean dives. At beautiful, beginner-friendly sites, you’ll practice your pool skills in real conditions and start exploring Koh Tao’s reefs and marine life. You’ll be back at the dive center by around 5pm.
Two more dives in the morning, where you’ll put everything together and feel comfortable and in control underwater. After your last dive, we return to the shop to wrap up — and by lunchtime, you’ll be a certified Open Water 20 Diver.
- Days
- 3 1/2
- Dives
- 4
- Max Depth
- 20 Meters
- Duration: 3.5 days (orientation + 3 training days)
- Certification: RAID Open Water 20 — dive to 20 meters worldwide
- Minimum age: 12 years old
- You must be able to swim and medically fit to dive
- Small groups — maximum 4 students per instructor
- Flying soon? Wait at least 24h after diving
- Price includes: dives, gear, all training materials, and insurance for the course
- How long does the Open Water 20 course take?The course runs over 3.5 days, including an orientation, pool training, and four ocean dives.
- What will I be certified to do?As a RAID Open Water 20 diver, you’ll be certified to dive to 20 meters with a buddy, anywhere in the world.
- Do I need to know how to swim?Yes, for the RAID Open Water 20 course you need to be able to swim. All students must complete a 200-meter swim (any style, no time limit) and a 10-minute float test to show basic comfort in the water.
- Is the course difficult?Not at all. We keep groups small so your instructor can give you the personal attention you need and you can learn at your own pace.
- What do I need to bring for my open water 20 course?We provide all the dive gear you’ll need. Bring swimwear and your phone to access your digital learning materials.
- Can I continue my training after this course?Yes! Once certified, you can take your next step with the RAID Explorer 30 course right away.
- Can I wear contact lenses or glasses while scuba diving?Yes, most divers with soft contact lenses have no problem diving. If you wear glasses, you may need to consider contact lenses for the day.
- Can I scuba dive if I have a medical condition?Some conditions require medical clearance before diving. If you have any concerns, reach out and we’ll talk it through and guide you on the next steps.