FAQ's
frequently asked questions - Scuba Diving koh Chang
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about scuba diving, snorkeling, and freediving—answered by our experienced BB team.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help!
FAQ scuba diving
Question
Answer
Can I dive if I can not swim?
Basic swimming skills are required if you wish to obtain a full scuba diving license. However, there are two exceptions:
Discover Scuba Diving (DSD)
This is a one-day experience program that does not require swimming skills. You’ll be closely supervised by a certified instructor at all times, making it a great option for beginners who want to try diving without committing to a full course.PADI Scuba Diver Certification
This entry-level certification does not include a swim test. However, you must be able to float or tread water for 10 minutes without using any equipment. The Scuba Diver license allows you to dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters (40 feet) under the direct supervision of a dive professional.
These options provide a safe and accessible way to explore the underwater world—even if you’re not a strong swimmer.
How deep can I dive as a beginner?
For beginner divers participating in a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) experience, the maximum recommended depth is 12 meters (40 feet). However, we always start in shallow water and only go deeper once you’re comfortable and have practiced the basic skills.
If you decide to continue your diving journey by enrolling in the PADI Open Water Diver course (a 3-day training program), you’ll be certified to dive to depths of up to 18 meters (60 feet) upon successful completion.
What equipment do I need for scuba diving?
Essential scuba diving gear includes a mask, fins, regulator, buoyancy control device (BCD), dive computer, wetsuit, and air tank.
At BB Divers, all necessary dive equipment is provided and included in the price, so you can focus on enjoying your dive without any extra hassle.
How long does a scuba diving certification take?
The PADI Open Water Diver certification—the most popular entry-level course—typically takes 2.5 to 3 days to complete.
The course includes:
Day 1: Theory sessions and confined water (pool) training
Days 2–3: Four open water dives in the ocean to practice and apply your skills
This course is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to dive safely and independently to a depth of 18 meters.
Can I scuba dive if I have a medical condition?
Your safety is our top priority. When signing up for a scuba diving course, you’ll be asked to complete a medical questionnaire.
If you can answer “No” to all questions, no medical certificate is required.
If you answer “Yes” to any question, you may need to get clearance from a doctor before diving.
It’s important to be honest about your health during the process to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience underwater.
What is the best time of the year for scuba diving?
The ideal diving season in Koh Chang and Koh Kood runs from October to May, when the sea is calm and visibility is at its best.
However, we offer diving year-round. During the low season (June to September), weather conditions can be windier and wavey, which may limit access to some dive sites. That said, we usually enjoy great diving in Koh Rang National Park throughout the year.
No matter when you visit, there’s always something exciting to explore underwater!
How do I handle underwater pressure changes?
To equalize pressure while diving, divers gently pinch their nose and blow softly against it—a technique that helps clear the ears and adjust to changes in depth.
This is a simple skill that you’ll learn during your training or try dive. It’s a new experience for most beginners, but with a bit of practice, it becomes second nature.
Is it safe to dive with marine animals?
In general, marine animals are not aggressive toward divers—especially when approached with respect. During training, divers are taught to maintain a safe distance and avoid touching marine life. This is not only best practice for protecting the underwater ecosystem, but also ensures your own safety.
In our area, there are no dangerous marine animals to worry about. On rare occasions, you might encounter a territorial triggerfish trying to scare you off—but they pose no real threat. We simply swim away and let them continue on peacefully in their natural habitat.
What should I do if I run out of air underwater?
Running out of air while diving is extremely rare when proper planning and monitoring are followed. Every diver is equipped with an air gauge, and our dive guides check regularly to ensure everyone stays within safe limits.
However, safety is always our top priority. In the unlikely event it does happen, divers are fully trained to handle the situation. The standard response is to signal your buddy, share air using an alternate air source, and ascend slowly and safely to the surface—a key part of all dive training.
At BB Divers, we emphasize safety procedures and practice them during our courses, so you can dive with confidence and peace of mind.
Can I dive if I am afraid of sharks?
Shark encounters are very rare—and when they do happen, there’s no need to worry. Most sharks are completely harmless to divers.
Around Koh Chang and Koh Kood, it’s uncommon to see sharks, but with a bit of luck, you might spot the gentle giant of the sea: the whale shark! These magnificent creatures are completely harmless and a true highlight for any diver or snorkeler.
So while shark sightings are rare, they’re always a special and safe experience.
How long should I wait to fly after scuba diving?
To ensure your safety, divers should wait at least 12 to 24 hours before flying after a dive.
For a single day of diving, it’s generally safe to fly the next morning.
If you’ve done multiple dives or decompression dives, a longer surface interval is strongly recommended to allow nitrogen to safely leave your body.
These guidelines help reduce the risk of decompression sickness and are an important part of safe dive planning. If you’re unsure, feel free to ask our dive team—we’re always happy to advise based on your dive schedule.
What is the min age for scubadiving?
For the Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) experience and the Open Water Diver certification, the minimum age is 10 years old.
For younger adventurers, PADI offers special programs designed just for kids aged 8 and up:
Bubblemaker – A fun and safe introduction to diving in shallow water.
PADI Seal Team – A series of exciting underwater missions that teach basic scuba skills in a playful, structured way.
These programs are held in a controlled, child-friendly environment and are a great way to introduce children to the wonders of the underwater world in a safe and enjoyable way.
Let us know if you’d like to plan a family-friendly dive adventure!
Is scubadiving dangerous?
Absolutely! Scuba diving is a safe and enjoyable activity when done responsibly, with proper training, and by following standard safety procedures.
A major part of dive training focuses on learning how to dive safely, manage your equipment, and respond calmly to any situation. When divers follow these guidelines and stay aware, diving becomes a low-risk and highly rewarding experience.
Fun fact: Scuba diving is actually one of the safest sports in terms of injury rates! 😊
With the right preparation, diving is not just safe—it’s unforgettable.
FAQ freediving
Question
Answer
How long is the training to become a freediver?
The PADI Freediver course is the perfect introduction to the world of breath-hold diving. It takes two days to complete, with some online learning to prepare in advance at your own pace.
Day 1: Confined water session (usually in a pool) to practice breath-hold techniques, safety skills, and build confidence.
Day 2: Open water session (typically from the boat) where you’ll apply your skills in deeper water, under the guidance of your certified PADI Freediver Instructor.
The course is designed to help you become a comfortable and confident freediver, with a strong focus on safety, relaxation, and technique.
Ready to dive in—on a single breath?
How long can free divers dive for?
On your very first freediving course, you’ll learn to hold your breath for over 2 minutes—something that surprises many new students!
Spicy detail:
The men’s world record for static breath-hold is 11 minutes and 35 seconds, set by Stéphane Mifsud of France.
The women’s record is held by Natalia Molchanova of Russia, with an incredible time of just over 9 minutes!
While you won’t need to reach these extremes, it’s amazing what your body can do with the right training and technique. Freediving is as much about relaxation and mindset as it is about breath-holding.
How is freediving different from scuba diving?
The biggest difference is breathing.
Scuba divers use a tank of compressed air to breathe underwater and are trained to never hold their breath while diving.
Freedivers, on the other hand, rely entirely on breath-hold techniques, diving on a single breath and returning to the surface before taking another.
Each approach offers a unique underwater experience—scuba allows for longer, more relaxed exploration, while freediving offers a sense of freedom, silence, and connection with your body and breath.
Curious to try both? We offer courses and experiences for each style of diving!
What is the difference between freediving and snorkeling?
Snorkeling is a relaxed activity that involves wearing a mask and snorkel to observe the underwater world while floating at the surface. It typically requires little to no training, and snorkelers spend most of their time above water.
Freediving, on the other hand, is a more advanced discipline that combines breath-holding techniques with refined diving skills to reach greater depths and stay underwater longer. Through dedicated training, freedivers learn to conserve oxygen and safely extend their time beneath the surface.
Is freediving dangerous?
Like any water activity, freediving carries inherent risks, and it can be more dangerous than scuba diving if not approached with proper training and safety.
Many people underestimate the demands of freediving. To dive safely, it’s essential to receive professional instruction from certified freediving instructors. Training covers important topics such as:
Breath-hold techniques
Equalization
Safety procedures
Understanding your body’s physiological responses
Freedivers should never dive alone—always use the buddy system and strictly follow all safety guidelines. With the right knowledge and precautions, freediving can be a safe and deeply rewarding experience.
FAQ snorkeling
Question
Answer
Can I snorkel if I am not a good swimmer.
For those who are not confident swimmers, we provide life jackets and ensure they are accompanied by a guide with a float for support. Strong swimmers are welcome to snorkel independently after receiving a detailed briefing about the coral sites.
Can we go snorkeling with kids?
Absolutely — we welcome families on board nearly every day. All necessary equipment is provided, including life jackets, with sizes available for children as well. Our snorkeling guides are very friendly and attentive, ensuring that everyone feels safe and supported throughout the experience.
I never snorkeled before, can I join?
Snorkeling is quite easy and accessible for beginners. Before getting in the water, we provide a briefing to explain how to use the equipment properly. We recommend that first-timers follow the snorkeling guide, who will be there to offer assistance whenever needed.
Which equipment will I need for snorkeling?
We provide all the necessary equipment for snorkeling. Fins are fitted at our shop before heading to the boat, while masks and snorkels are handed out on board. Life jackets are available in all sizes to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for everyone.
We are in a group, can we snorkel and dive on the same trip?
Every day, we offer snorkeling, scuba diving, and dive courses—all from the same boat. The reefs around Koh Chang are ideal for all these activities, making it easy for everyone to enjoy their preferred adventure while staying together on the boat.
