Get PADI Open Water certified in two days at Jan Thiel in Curaçao. Small-group instruction, pool confined skills, and four open-water dives on reef-fringed sites make this an efficient, hands-on course.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A warm trade wind lifts salt from the bay as the dive flag flutters over Jan Thiel’s calm launch point. On arrival you’ll find a compact operation: a pool tucked on the property for confined-water practice, racks of ready scuba gear, and instructors briefing students in a mix of languages. Over two focused days the course moves from confined-water skills to four open-water dives on shallow, reef-fringed sites where hard and soft corals slope away into clearer blue.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approx. 8–10 hours of contact instruction and dives)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — comfortable swimming and basic stamina for multiple short surface swims and descents
Wildlife
History
Jan Thiel area developed from colonial plantation and salt-harvest activity; Curaçao’s Dutch colonial past influences local place names and architecture.
Conservation
Reef health varies; operators emphasize reef-safe sunscreen, no-touch policies, and use mooring buoys to avoid anchor damage.
Reserve your spot on the PADI Open Water Course in Curacao today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Complete e‑learning before arrival
Doing the PADI e‑learning ahead of time reduces classroom hours and lets you focus on pool skills and dives.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Curaçao encourages reef protection — choose mineral-based sunscreen to reduce coral damage.
Practice equalizing and gentle ear clearing
Equalize frequently on descent to avoid ear pain during deeper skills and the four open-water dives.
Bring a reusable water bottle and hydrate
Tropical heat and activity can dehydrate you before dives — carry water and sip regularly.
Mask & snorkel
Personal fit improves comfort during pool sessions and surface swims.
Swimwear and lightweight rash guard
Quick-dry clothing and a rash guard protect from sun and rubbing under gear.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin from sun and reduces harmful chemicals entering reef waters.
Logbook and ID
Bring photo ID and a dive log or notebook to record skills and certification details.