As winter settles around the globe, bringing festive cheer, the Scuba Dive Online team has been hard at work. Our PADI Course Directors have been leading Instructor Development Courses (IDCs) in paradise destinations. From the Maldives to Thailand and beyond, winter is proving to be a season of incredible achievements. Here are some highlights from this year’s Winter Season IDC Successes to inspire you during these chilly months
New PADI Instructors at Assava Diving Resort
This holiday season, we celebrate the success of Clara, Robin, Colin, Libby, and Li. These passionate divers recently became PADI Instructors at Assava Diving Resort, one of our PADI 5 Star IDC partner in Koh Tao. Guided by Course Directors Natalie and Tim Hunt, they completed their IDC and have already begun their careers in their underwater office.
Just in time for Christmas, their success reminds us that the best gifts come from pursuing your dreams. We wish them the best as they inspire the next generation of divers. This is truly one of our most heartwarming Winter Season IDC Successes!
New Instructors at Davy Jones Locker
Congratulations to Seb and Freya for completing the December IDC at Davy Jones Locker in Koh Tao with 100% success! Seb began his training online in chilly UK with PADI Course Director Monique Richards before flying to Thailand. There, he joined Freya, who completed the programme in person under the guidance of PADI Course Director Neil Richards.
Their teamwork and determination show that holiday dreams really can come true. As part of this year’s Winter Season IDC Successes, Seb and Freya are starting their underwater careers with flying colours.
A Christmas Full House at PKT Diving
PKT Diving on Phi Phi Island had a full house this December. Eight IDC candidates—Bianca, Dehardt, Blandine, Patrick, Stephane, Nick, Melle, and Max—all passed their IDC with full marks!
Monique Richards led their online training from the UK before joining PADI Course Director Tim Hunt for the final in-water sessions. With Phi Phi buzzing this high season, all eight are already working in their new roles. This festive accomplishment is one of our proudest Winter Season IDC Successes and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
New Additions at Lanta Diver
Lanta Diver in Koh Lanta has welcomed two new members to their team. Peter joins as a PADI Instructor, and Nicola as a PADI Staff Instructor. Both completed their online training with Monique before finishing in-water sessions with PADI Course Director Anand Chandra.
Peter has even relocated to Koh Lanta with his family, including his son, aptly named “Ocean.” What a perfect way to embrace the diving lifestyle this holiday season. Their journey is another shining example of this year’s Winter Season IDC Successes.
Tori’s Achievement at Roatan Divers
A huge congratulations to Tori, who completed her IDC with our PADI 5 Star IDC partner, Roatan Divers. After finishing her Divemaster internship, Tori was determined to go further. Under the guidance of PADI Course Director Fernanda Paiva, she successfully earned her PADI Instructor certification.
Her achievement is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season and another memorable highlight of our Winter Season IDC Successes. Well done, Tori!
Cheers to Infinity2Diving
Congratulations to Victoria Cole and Ivana Inglesina from our PADI 5 Star CDC partner, Infinity2Diving in Tulum, Mexico. Both achieved Platinum PADI Course Director status once again! This top honour was celebrated at the DEMA Dive Show, where they were recognized by PADI CEO Drew Richardson.
Victoria and Ivana, also cave and PADI Mermaid instructors, continue to inspire divers worldwide. Their success is a true holiday highlight. Cheers to their accomplishments and another year of excellence!
Celebrating the Season with Global Adventures
The Scuba Dive Online team is back in Thailand after a year of globe-trotting. From Vietnam to the UK, Canada, Australia, the USA, and Honduras, our Course Directors have been busy spreading the SDO spirit. One standout moment? Neil Richards, co-founder of Scuba Dive Online, carried his SDO t-shirt 5,000 meters high in the Himalayas, that’s dedication!
We’re excited to bring this energy into the holiday season and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year.
Looking Ahead to 2025!
At Scuba Dive Online, we’re proud to have 46 PADI IDCs scheduled worldwide in 2025. Whether you dream of teaching in paradise or advancing your diving career, we’re here to help. Contact us for dates and start your journey to success.
Here’s to even more Winter Season IDC Successes in the coming year! Happy Holidays!