Raja Ampat Diving Certification – What Level Do You Need?

Planning to dive Raja Ampat but unsure about certification requirements? This guide clarifies what you need, how to upgrade, and what’s possible at every level.

Minimum Requirement

Most Raja Ampat dive sites are accessible with Advanced Open Water certification and a minimum of 30-50 logged dives. Some sheltered sites welcome Open Water divers, but the best sites involve currents that benefit from experience.

Site Requirements by Level

Open Water (beginner): Arborek house reef, Sawandarek, Yenbuba, sheltered lagoon dives.

Advanced Open Water: Cape Kri, Manta Sandy, Friwen Wall, most standard sites.

Experienced (100+ dives): Blue Magic in strong current, The Passage, deep walls, current-swept seamounts.

Getting Certified in Raja Ampat

Resort dive centers offer PADI courses from Discover Scuba through Divemaster. Some liveaboards offer Advanced course completion during your cruise. Budget 2-3 additional days for certification courses.

Non-Divers

Raja Ampat’s snorkeling is world-class—many sites offer surface experiences rivaling diving elsewhere. Don’t let certification status prevent you from visiting.