SSI Course
Open Water Certification in Playa del Carmen
Become a certified diver in Playa del Carmen with The Dive Machine. The SSI Open Water Diver course is the first level of recreational diving and certifies you to dive anywhere in the world to a maximum depth of 18 meters.
Your First Diving Certification
The Open Water Diver certification is recognized worldwide and is the first level of certification in recreational diving. It shows that you have the knowledge and skills to dive safely and responsibly in open water. With The Dive Machine you train with experienced SSI instructors in small groups, in one of the best places to learn: the crystal-clear water of the Caribbean, its coral reefs and its tropical fish. Our Open Water courses can also include cenote dives as part of the training.
How the Course Works

Theory
Dive physics, equipment, dive planning and safety.

Confined Water
Practice the basic diving skills in a pool or confined water.

4 Open Water Dives
Four dives in open water, supervised by your instructor.

Your SSI Certification
A digital certification in the SSI app, valid anywhere in the world.
Remember
When to Take Your Course
You can take your Open Water course all year round: the water in Playa del Carmen stays between 25 and 28 °C. The course is usually completed in about three days, combining theory, confined water training and open water dives.
Why Get Certified with The Dive Machine?
We are an SSI certified dive center in Playa del Carmen with a 5-star SSI rating, personalized small groups and multilingual instructors. We work with SSI because of its versatility and technology: your certification is available in digital format in the SSI app, valid anywhere in the world. All equipment is included, and after your course you will be ready to explore the reefs and cenotes of the Riviera Maya.
Max. Depth Certified
Open Water Dives
Days (approx.)
Water Temperature
What's Included
Everything you need for an amazing day of diving: we take care of the rest
Full Scuba Gear
BCD, regulator, tanks, weights, fins and mask.
Dive Lights
Primary and backup light for exploring the cenotes
Thermal Protection
Wetsuits suited to cenote and reef conditions (24-26 °C)
Cenote Entrance Fees
All park and cenote entrance fees are paid by the diver.
Lunch/Snacks
A tasty sandwich with fruit and a dessert after your dive adventure
Certified Guide
All of our instructors are bilingual and hold current credentials
Why Choose The Dive Machine?
Your trusted diving partner in the Riviera Maya
SSI Certified Center
As an SSI certified dive center, you can count on high-quality training and first-class customer service backed by international standards.
Small Groups
We prioritize personal attention with small groups, ensuring a safe and intimate dive where every diver gets the care they deserve.
High-Quality Equipment
Dive with complete, quality gear included in your experience: BCD, regulator, tanks, weights, fins, mask and dive lights.
Expert Certified Guides
We only work with the best certified guides in the Yucatán Peninsula, with thousands of dives and years of experience so you can enjoy every moment.
Sustainable Diving
The Dive Machine offers eco-friendly tours in Puerto Aventuras and the Riviera Maya. We are committed to reducing waste and promoting responsible diving practices.
Personalized Service
Every diver is unique. We tailor each experience to your skill level, interests and comfort, whether it is your first dive or you are an advanced explorer.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The Open Water Diver course is usually completed in about three days, combining theory, confined water training and four open water dives supervised by your instructor.
Up to 18 meters, anywhere in the world. With the Advanced certification you can dive up to 30 meters, and with the Deep Diver specialty up to 40 meters.
We work with SSI (Scuba Schools International), a globally recognized agency known for its high training standards and emphasis on safety. Your certification is available in digital format in the SSI app, valid anywhere in the world.
No. The Open Water course is designed for beginners. If you want to try diving first, our Discover Scuba experience lets you dive with a certified instructor without a certification.
Your swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and a change of clothes, plus your certification card if you are already certified. All diving equipment is provided by The Dive Machine.