Dive Centre Okinawa 39ers

Located in Chatan, at the heart of Okinawa's main island, Dive Centre Okinawa 39ers has been operating since July 2014. The centre is ideally positioned for those looking to explore the diverse marine environments of the main island and the surrounding remote archipelagos.

Specialising in the needs of international divers, the centre provides access to some of the most iconic sites in the region, including the Kerama Islands. Whether you are looking to explore local reefs or venture further out to the islands, the centre's location is roughly 45 minutes' drive from the airport.

The team at Okinawa 39ers is comprised of experienced, international instructors who communicate fluently in both English and Japanese. This ensures clear communication and a smooth experience for the international diving community.

To maintain high safety standards and a convivial atmosphere, the centre operates with a maximum ratio of 4 divers per guide. All groups are organised according to your specific experience level, ensuring you are matched with buddies and environments suited to your certification.

The centre offers a range of training through NAUI, catering to various experience levels. For those looking to move beyond standard recreational diving, they offer Side Mount training.

From beginners to more advanced divers, the instruction is designed to be precise and professional, ensuring you gain the specific skills required for the local diving conditions.

The reefs are home to a diverse array of tropical fish, including damselfish, angelfish (Pomacanthidae), and triggerfish (Balistidae). You will also encounter various species of parrotfish (Calotomus), boxfish (Ostraciidae), and pufferfish (Arothron hispidus).

For those watching the water column, look out for larger pelagics and predators such as sharks (Selachimorpha), including blacktip reef sharks and whitetip reef sharks (Triaenodon obesus). You may also see rays (Batoidea), barracuda (Sphyraena), and jack (Carangidae) cruising the area.

In the reef structures, you will find a variety of corals and sea anemones. Look closely for nudibranchs (Chromodoris willani) and other macro life, including white frogfish and various species of scorpionfish.

Sea turtles (Cheloniidae) are a regular presence, including green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata). You might also spot lionfish (Pterois volitans) or trumpetfish (Aulostomidae) amongst the reef structures.

Water temperatures in the area typically range between 20°C and 30°C. The region offers varied environments ranging from shallow reef flats to deeper offshore sites.