Course overview

Build your understanding of the world's richest reefs with the SSI Marine Ecology specialty in Raja Ampat, where over 600 coral species and 1,700 reef fish make every dive a living classroom. You learn to identify key species and reef relationships on biodiverse sites such as Melissa's Garden and Cape Kri. This SSI dive course turns each dive into informed observation and adds depth to your scuba diving.

What you’ll learn

• Recognise major reef-fish families and invertebrate groups
• Understand coral-reef ecology and symbiotic relationships
• Identify Raja Ampat's signature species and macro life
• Observe and record marine behaviour responsibly
• Appreciate the role of the Coral Triangle in global biodiversity
• Apply low-impact diving to protect fragile reefs

Prerequisites

• Minimum age 10 and up
• SSI Open Water Diver or equivalent certification
• Diver medical clearance signed by a physician

What's included · What's not

Not included? Sort the rest of your trip

Flights and accommodation aren’t part of the course price, here’s how to book them around your dates.

Probability of sightings · month-by-month

What you're likely to see each month, based on historic operator logs.

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day1
   Ecology and fish ID

   Complete the academics and practise identification on a biodiverse reef such as Melissa's Garden.
2. Day2
   Behaviour and certification

   Observe reef relationships and behaviour on a second dive at a site like Cape Kri and certify.

Verified through iDive

Every partner school in the iDive network is vetted on safety, instructor credentials, equipment standards and student feedback. Talk to a iDive dive pro on WhatsApp for current availability and reviews specific to Raja Ampat.

Frequently asked questions