PLAYA BLANCA WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE
From Passion to Profession: Twelve Days to SSI Open Water Instructor in Playa Blanca
An intensive 12-day SSI Instructor program in Playa Blanca that combines classroom instruction, confined-water (pool) drills and open-water training to prepare candidates for the final instructor examinations.
From Passion to Profession: Twelve Days to SSI Open Water Instructor in Playa Blanca.
This intensive, two‑week Instructor SSI Open Water program in Playa Blanca is designed to move experienced recreational divers toward a professional role. Over 12 days the course combines classroom presentations, confined‑water sessions and open‑water training, culminating in a multi‑day instructor evaluation and final exams. The school advertises a high level of professional training and dedicated teaching facilities to support candidates through the ITC and assessment process.
Highlights
Course Highlights
An intensive 12‑day instructor training cycle
The route is deliberately concentrated: classroom theory, confined‑water skill development and open‑water teaching practice are delivered across an intensive two‑week schedule so candidates are ready for the subsequent instructor evaluation.
Hands‑on pool sessions and open‑water practice
Practical training includes confined‑water drills in a pool and multiple open‑water training dives where candidates practice the exercises they will later be assessed on during the Instructor Evaluation.
Final evaluations span multiple days
After completing the ITC training at a competent level, candidates face an instructor examination that typically lasts two to three days and covers the full range of skills and presentations taught during the course.
What the day feels like
What the course feels like
Expect a disciplined, classroom‑to‑water rhythm: daytime theory sessions and methodology workshops are paired with confined‑water practice in pool sessions and open‑water teaching dives. Instruction moves quickly from review of dive theory and teaching methodology to practical exercises you will later be asked to demonstrate in your instructor evaluation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who it does not.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring recent documentation required for professional courses: a current medical certificate (issued within the last 12 months), proof of first aid and CPR training completed within the previous 24 months, and evidence of at least 100 logged dives and prior qualifying certifications.
You will need to present your diving certification records (OWD at least six months old and any relevant assistant‑instructor or equivalent certificates) and proof of the required dive count prior to the ITC and evaluation.
Expect to practice and be evaluated on standard scuba skills; bring personal dive equipment where required and any documentation requested by the training provider.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Instructor SSI Open Water course?
The program is an intensive 12‑day course (two weeks), followed by a 2–3 day instructor evaluation and final exams.
What are the minimum age and experience requirements?
Participants must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 100 logged dives to enroll.
What prior certifications are accepted to join the course?
Eligible candidates hold certifications such as SSI DiveCon, PADI Assistant Instructor or equivalent, CMAS 3‑star diver or any recognized instructor certification from another organization.
Do I need first aid or medical certificates to join?
Yes — a recent medical certificate (issued within the last year) is required, and evidence of first aid and CPR training within the previous 24 months is also necessary.
What does the training schedule include?
The course includes classroom presentations, confined‑water (pool) sessions, open‑water training dives, and general diving exams leading into the instructor evaluation.
How long are the instructor exams?
The final Instructor Evaluation and exams typically take two to three days after completion of the ITC training.