Orient Blue Dive Center

Orient Blue Dive Center is a PADI affiliated centre situated in the Phratumnak Hill area of Pattaya. It serves as a convenient gateway for divers looking to explore the Gulf of Thailand or join longer expeditions to the country's most famous reef systems.

The centre specialises in both structured certification courses and recreational diving. Depending on your schedule, you can opt for day trips to nearby sites like Samaesan or join organised liveaboards heading towards the Similan Islands, Koh Chang, Koh Tao, and the Andaman Sea.

The centre focuses on a professional approach to training, ensuring that instructors are dedicated solely to their students. They do not mix certification courses with recreational fun dives, allowing for maximum attention and a focused learning environment.

Instruction is available in English, Japanese, and Thai. The team covers the full spectrum of PADI training, from entry-level courses through to professional development.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of PADI courses for all levels of experience. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, while those looking to expand their skills can progress through Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver.

Professional pathways are also available, including the Divemaster programme and the Instructor Development Course (IDC). Specialty training is provided through the Enriched Air Diver course, and the centre also facilitates Emergency First Response training.

A full range of rental equipment is available on-site for those not travelling with their own kit. This includes regulators, BCDs, and other essential diving components.

For those looking to extend their bottom time or manage nitrogen loading, Enriched Air Nitrox is available. The centre also provides towels and refreshments, including coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic drinks, for use during your time on shore.

The local waters host a variety of larger pelagic species. You can regularly observe Jacks, Barracuda, and Anthias around the reefs. Sea turtles are also a common sight for divers in the region.

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, with various species of nudibranchs present on the seabed. Divers also frequently encounter pompadours during their explorations.

Specialised liveaboard trips to the Andaman Sea offer the chance to see seasonal highlights. Depending on the timing of your trip, you may encounter whale sharks and manta rays.

Visibility in the area can reach up to 30 metres depending on the conditions. Most day trips depart from the centre at 07:00 to make the most of the diving windows.