Can you do your dive course on a liveaboard?
The answer is a big, bold YES — and honestly, there’s no better classroom than the coral-covered, manta-filled waters of Komodo National Park.
Whether you’re starting with your Open Water certification or leveling up with Advanced or specialty courses, learning on a liveaboard is immersive, inspiring, and way more fun than a dive shop in the city.
Here’s what it’s really like to take your dive course on a liveaboard with Scuba Junkie — and why it might just be the best decision you’ll ever make underwater.
The PADI Open Water Course is your first step to becoming a certified diver — and doing it on a liveaboard means you’ll start strong, in warm water, with incredible visibility, and full support from experienced instructors.
You’ll complete your theory in advance with PADI e-Learning — so when you step onto KLM Eliya, you’re ready to get wet and start your journey. Over your first two days, your instructor will guide you through skill sessions and open water dives, all within the stunning protected areas of Komodo National Park.
At the end of your dive course on a liveaboard, you’ll be certified to dive up to 18 meters with a buddy — and full of unforgettable memories.
Cost: $500 (includes online theory, PADI certification, training dives)
This is an add-on to the liveaboard package rate.
Here’s why doing your dive course on a liveaboard is a game-changer:
Plus, there’s something about rinsing off after your final dive and sipping tea on the deck that just hits different when you’re doing your first scuba certification.
If you’re already certified, the PADI Advanced Open Water Course is the perfect way to sharpen your skills and dive deeper into the ocean world.
Onboard KLM Eliya, this course includes 5 adventure dives — two required (Deep & Navigation), plus three that suit your style. Popular choices include Drift, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Fish ID, Night, and Naturalist dives — all of which are fantastic in Komodo.
And yes, you’ll still be diving world-class sites while learning!
Cost: $400 (includes e-manual, PADI certification, and all training dives)
Also an add-on to the liveaboard trip price.
You’ll come away a stronger diver, ready to take on more advanced sites — and with a deeper appreciation of the underwater world.
Want to fine-tune a particular skill? Specialty courses like Drift Diver, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Night Diver, and Fish ID are available on board.
They’re a great way to personalize your dive experience and gain real mastery — especially when you have world-class dive sites right outside your cabin door.
Pricing depends on the specialty
All specialty certifications include PADI fees and personalized instruction.
When it comes to taking your dive course on a liveaboard, who you learn with matters.
KLM Eliya offers:
It’s the perfect blend of serious learning and serious fun.
Doing your dive course on a liveaboard isn’t just about getting certified — it’s about falling in love with diving in the most epic way possible.
From the first time you deflate your BCD and sink into a coral garden, to your final certification dive with mantas overhead, every moment is unforgettable.
And when it’s all done? You’re not headed home — you’re staying on the boat, diving the best sites of Komodo as a newly certified diver. That’s the magic.
Drop your questions below — whether you’re just starting or looking to level up. We’re here to help you take the plunge 🐠
