Why I Did My RAID Scuba Diving Instructor Course

Happy man sitting on a boat with open arms surrounded by blue water.
Chalok Bay, Koh Tao Island, Thailand

…and Why I to chose to complete the Instructor Development Program with Hydronauts Diving Resort on Koh Tao, Thailand

Have you ever experienced that moment when you find yourself submerged in the underwater world, surrounded by vibrant marine life, weightless and defying gravity? For me, that moment was transformative, sparking a passion that eventually led me to take my scuba diving instructor course on Koh  Tao. Today, I want to share my personal journey and the profound reasons behind my decision to guide others through the awe-inspiring realm of the ocean.

Where it all began: Scuba diving in Thailand

My fascination with the underwater world began as a child, fueled by nature documentaries and the captivating stories of ocean explorers.  I grew up idolizing David Attenborough, taking in his wealth of knowledge about the world’s environments and life previously unknown to me. I knew I wanted to be a part of introducing others to this knowledge and the excitement I felt about the ocean, while also being a part of keeping it safe.

However, it wasn’t until I took my first scuba diving course that I truly understood the magic concealed beneath the surface and how I was going to make my dream a reality. The moment I descended into the depths and witnessed the vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine species in Koh Tao, Thailand, I knew I had found my calling.

Why I chose scuba diving Koh Tao for making my dreams a reality

Group of happy people on a beach.

Teaching on the best beaches in Thailand and diving the best dive sites in Thailand​

One of the most compelling reasons I became a diving instructor was the desire to share the joy and wonder that comes with exploring the underwater world. The ocean is a mysterious and enchanting realm that many people only glimpse through screens or books.

As a scuba diving instructor, I have the privilege of opening the door to this hidden world for others, guiding them through the process of learning to dive on their Open Water scuba diving course, Explorer 30 Advanced scuba diving course, and more, helping them discover the beauty that lies beneath the waves.

Diving with a focus on environmental stewardship and protecting Koh Tao's marine life

The educational aspect of becoming a diving instructor was another driving force behind my decision. Teaching others to dive involves not only imparting practical skills but also instilling a sense of responsibility for the marine environment.

Being a RAID Instructor or Divemaster means unlocking the potential for underwater adventures while prioritizing safety and environmental stewardship, all while enjoying the best dive sites Koh Tao has to offer. 

It’s immensely gratifying to witness the transformation in my students as they develop not just as divers, but as environmentally conscious individuals committed to preserving our oceans, beginning with the incredible Koh Tao Marine Life.

Dive professional friends: a shared passion and lifetime of friendship

Beyond the sheer joy of introducing others to scuba diving Koh Tao, becoming a diving instructor also offered me the opportunity to be a part of a global community of RAID instructors that shares a deep love and respect for the ocean. 

Divers are a diverse group, coming together with a common passion for exploration and conservation. Through teaching, I have connected with people from all walks of life, forming lasting friendships and sharing unforgettable experiences both underwater and above.

Happy group of people on the top deck of a diving boat out at sea.

My journey to becoming a diving instructor has been a deeply fulfilling adventure, driven by the desire to share the wonders of the underwater world, connect with a global community of ocean enthusiasts, educate others about marine conservation, and continuously expand my own knowledge and skills. As I guide others into the water, I am reminded of the transformative power of the ocean and the importance of fostering a love and respect for this precious ecosystem.

Why I Chose to do my Instructor Scuba Diving Course at Hydronauts Diving Resort

Selecting the right diving resort can significantly enhance the overall underwater experience, and for me, the choice was clear: Hydronauts Diving Resort. Nestled in a pristine coastal haven, Hydronauts stood out as the top dive schools Thailand offers, and it charmed me for several compelling reasons:

A Reputation and Commitment to Safety and Professionalism

As an avid diver, my top priority was knowing that I was in capable hands, and Hydronauts consistently exceeds industry standards. Their team of experienced and certified RAID scuba diving instructors and divemasters undergo rigorous training, ensuring a secure and enjoyable diving environment for enthusiasts of all skill levels. This dedication to safety in scuba diving Koh Tao creates a sense of trust and confidence that is invaluable when exploring the depths. 

Take a look at the RAID Way, and why RAID is the fastest growing scuba diving agency in the world. While looking at an SSI, NAUI, CMAS, or PADI open water course, I noticed that they use more funding on selling courses and market appeal, while RAID focuses on delivering outstanding certified and professional divers, centered around precision, quality, and comfort in diving education.

Scuba Diving Koh Tao's Beachfront

Situated in close proximity to vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and intriguing underwater formations, the resort offers unparalleled access to the best dive sites in Koh Tao. Whether seeking the thrill of a wall dive or the serenity of a coral garden, the resort’s strategic organization provided a variety of options, allowing flexibility to cater to every diver’s preference.

The resort is also one of the best positioned dive resorts in Koh Tao. It is located directly on the serene beach of Chalok Bay, away from the chaos of other island locations, and offers an onsite training pool, delectable cafe, Hydrate beach bar, and world class restaurant, Juicy on the Beach.

Emphasizing Environmental Conservation for Koh Tao's Marine Life

Choosing Hydronauts allows me to be a part of a community that values and contributes to the health of the Koh Tao marine life through its partnership with the Global Reef marine conservation organization. Placing a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable diving practices, the resort actively engages in coral restoration projects, marine life protection initiatives, and waste reduction programs.

An Investment in State-of-the-Art Equipment and Facilities

The resort’s state-of-the-art facilities and equipment were also instrumental in my decision. Hydronauts invests in top-tier diving gear, ensuring that divers have access to reliable equipment that enhances the overall experience. 

They also have the best scuba gear rental Koh Tao has to offer, as it is one of the only dive shops on Koh Tao that offers backplate and wing buoyancy control devices, as well options for technical and recreational fins, varying masks sizes and shapes, and Suunto D4i dive computers for your Open Water scuba diving course. Each customer is equipped with their own personalized dive equipment to be used throughout their entire course, making the experience comfortable and fun for each of my individual students.

If you decide to move on to your Explorer 30 Advanced scuba diving course, you also have the option to learn how to use long-hose/short-hose regulator configurations, a piece of equipment owned by few and favored by all who have the opportunity to use it. 

Well-maintained boats, spacious dive decks, and an attention to detail that I find here creates an atmosphere where I can focus on the sheer joy of diving and a seamless and enjoyable diving getaway.

A Place To Call Home

The most important reason why I chose Hydronauts is the truly exceptional sense of community. From the warm and welcoming staff to fellow divers sharing their passion for diving, the resort becomes more than just a destination—it becomes a home for like-minded individuals. 

We enjoy game nights, movie nights, barbecues, and are most often found playing rounds of cards or rounds of beers at the beach bar after diving. 

People in Halloween costumes hanging out and playing a giant deck of cards.

The camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for diving creates an environment that enriches the overall experience and entices me to remain here for new adventures above and below the tranquil seas of the Gulf of Thailand.

My choice to complete my Instructor Development Program and become a professional scuba diving instructor at Hydronauts stems from a combination of their unwavering commitment to safety, prime location, dedication to environmental conservation, top-notch facilities, and the sense of community that distinguishes them from other dive shops. 

Each dive with Hydronauts is not just an exploration; it’s a celebration and appreciation of the wonders that lie beneath the surface from a setting that feels like a second home.

Reach out to Hydronauts today and discover for yourself what makes it the best place in the world to complete your scuba diving instructor course. No matter what level of scuba diving course you’re interested in doing while in Thailand, Hydronauts has you covered.

Ask for Blizz, they’ll know I sent you!