Scuba diving in Gili Islands brings out real adventure in the underwater world, with views of various forms of marine life. Kaleidoscopic coral reefs and shoals of colourful tropical fish delight the diver upon descent into the crystal-clear waters. Equipped with pleasant water temperatures, generally calm conditions, and excellent visibility, the Gili Islands offer the ultimate diving experience for every diver, from the lowest to the highest experience levels. For both beginners and very experienced divers, the Gili Islands promise great times underwater in this Indonesian paradise.
Factors That Affect Scuba Diving In Gili Islands
Photo: Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedeia Commons
When planning for scuba diving in the Gili Islands, several important factors can influence your experience, such as:
- Health Conditions
- Finning Techniques
- Water Conditions
- Aquatic Life
- Safety Precautions
Suggested Read: Discover The Thrill Of Scuba Diving In Bali For An Adventurous Vacation
Levels Of Scuba Diving In Gili Islands
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There are numerous levels of scuba diving in Gili Islands for all divers, whether at primary or advanced expertise levels. These are as follows:
Discover Scuba Diving: This is simply for an introductory experience regarding scuba diving under the very close supervision of a PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) instructor. No prior experience is required. This procedure shall be followed by a short briefing, after which you are free to go down to 12 metres deep with a time approach of 30-40 minutes.
Duration: 30-40 minutes
Open Water Diver: This is the first level of certification for recreational scuba diving: some classroom sessions, confined water training, and 4 open water dives. At the end of the course, you can dive up to a maximum depth of 18 metres (60 feet).
Duration: 2-3 days
Advanced Open Water Diver: Upon completing this course, one can try different dive styles, such as deep diving, underwater navigation, night diving, and many more. This course includes 5 adventure dives up to a maximum depth of 30 metres (100 feet).
Duration: 1-2 days
Rescue Diver: The course teaches you how to prevent and manage problems for yourself and others. You can learn various dive rescue techniques, emergency management, and first aid options when you need them.
Duration: 2 days
Divemaster: This professional-level rating aims to train you as a dive leader so that you can supervise dive activities and assist instructors with diver training. Extensive training is provided in dive theory, skills, and the environment. You must be at least 18 years old and have 40 dives logged.
Duration: About 4-6 weeks
Popular Destinations For Scuba Diving In Gili Islands
Beautiful Sri Lanka has many places that allow tourists to have a fantastic scuba diving experience. Here are a few places for Scuba Diving in Gili islands.
1. Gili Trawangan
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Dive sites around Gili Trawangan are colourful and exciting. On the dive sites of this island, one can experience excellent visibility and clear, warm waters, with a chance to swim above vibrant coral reefs and enjoy the abundance of marine life. Divers frequently come across species like graceful sea turtles, elusive reef sharks, and colourful schools of tropical fish. Dramatic drop-offs and huge coral gardens typify underwater topography that both provides shallow and deep dive experiences. With its relatively mild currents and warm temperatures, this must be accessible and enjoyable for every diver, regardless of their level.
Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 30 metres
Suggested Read: Scuba Diving Gili Trawangan For Underwater Expedition
2. Gili Meno
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It holds some of the most peaceful and beautiful dive sites, which are much calmer compared to its neighbours. Gili Meno has beautiful coral gardens and a great deal of marine life, so the conditions are ideal for a relaxed underwater experience. One can frequently see colourful reef fish, green turtles, and sometimes blacktip reef sharks. The dive sites are generally not that deep, which makes for an ideal location for beginners or for those who would like to make a leisurely dive. This tranquil atmosphere and beautiful marine landscape earned it its reputation as one of the best dive spots.
Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 40 metres
3. Gili Air
Photo: Laurent Bigué / Wikimedia Cpmmons
This island has many dive sites, where access is easy, and a wide array of dives caters to all diver levels. Underwater landscapes are shallow reefs and deeper drop-offs, which provide conditions for a wide range of dives. The same variety is reflected in the rich diversity of marine life, featuring schools of colourful tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and occasional visits from larger pelagic species like sharks. Calm waters and great biodiversity of marine life make Gili Air just the right place to explore the underwater world in a beautiful, unruffled setting.
Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 30 metres
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4. Gili Selang
Photo: Visions of Domino / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The island appears on the list despite being distinct from the other three due to its equal beauty and short distance. Gili Selang is one of those dive destinations that bring adventure, and it is known for its strong currents and colourful undersea scenery. The site includes dramatic coral walls, deep drop-offs, and abundant marine life, from barracudas and reef sharks to schools of colourful fish. Such demanding conditions make it perfect for experienced divers searching for extra adrenaline in their underwater adventure. The island of Gili Selang is a pristine setting that is unspoiled and provides a unique and hair-raising dive experience.
Minimum Depth Level: 5 metres
Maximum Depth Level: 35 metres
Best Time For Scuba Diving In Gili Islands
Photo: Mudasir Zainuddin / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to scuba dive in the Gili Islands, Indonesia, is from April to October. The weather is dry in these months, with clear water visibility as far as 20-30 meters. Seas are normally calm at this time of the year, and most divers would prefer this for a more enjoyable and safe experience.
Suggested Read: Gili Islands Snorkelling For Underwater Adventures
Price Of Scuba Diving In Gili Islands
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Scuba diving in the Gili Islands offers a range of affordable options in INR, making it accessible to many enthusiasts. The price of scuba diving in Gilli Islands starts from ₹2,800 to ₹4,000. For those seeking certification, an Open Water Course ranges from ₹28,000 to ₹36,000, covering equipment rental, instruction, and certification.
Scuba diving in Gili Islands provides an exciting, visually stunning, and exhilarating experience. Islands beaches offer some of the most breathtaking scenery and a variety of thrilling activities, such as scuba diving. Viewers can get up close and personal with the marine reefs to witness the ocean’s magnificence. Make your reservation with TripXl today to explore the azure water and enjoy scuba diving in the Gili Islands.
Cover Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedeia Commons