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71 Guardians Diving Expeditions And Academy

Skills & Training

PADI vs SSI vs SDI: which scuba certification should you choose?

For most new divers, the agency matters less than the instructor. PADI, SSI and SDI all teach Open Water courses to shared international standards — SDI notes all three are WRSTC members accredited to European EN standards — so the core skills are the same. They differ in course names, learning materials and price. All three are taught at 71 Guardians.

By 71 Guardians · Published 18 Oct 2026

Divers exploring a coral outcrop

Are PADI, SSI and SDI certifications recognised everywhere?

According to SDI, PADI, SSI and SDI are all members of the Recreational Scuba Training Council and accredited by the European Underwater Federation as meeting the EN standards for diver training. In practice dive centres accept each other's entry level cards — check with any operator you plan to dive with.

How are the Open Water courses structured?

SDI describes the same four parts used by most agencies: self-study theory, face-to-face theory, confined-water (pool or shallow) training and open-water dives. PADI's Open Water Diver is trained to 18 metres.

What do the next levels look like?

  • Rescue: PADI Rescue Diver, SDI Rescue Diver, SSI Diver Stress & Rescue.
  • Advanced: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, SSI Advanced Open Water Diver (formerly Advanced Adventurer), SDI Advanced Adventure Diver (SDI's separate 'Advanced Diver' card requires more experience).

Names differ, but each step builds the same skills further.

Which one should I choose?

Pick the course that suits your plans and budget, and the instructor you trust. On our Courses page every course shows each agency's price side by side.

Frequently asked questions

Can I start with one agency and continue with another?

Generally yes — agencies accept equivalent prerequisite certifications. Ask us before you book.

Is PADI better than SSI?

Neither is 'better' for a new diver; both follow shared standards. The quality of your instructor and how much in-water practice you get matter more.

Questions before you dive with us?

Message our team on WhatsApp — we're divers in Hurghada and happy to help.

Chat with us on WhatsApp

Sources

  1. Switching to SDI — SDI / TDI
  2. Recreational Sport Diver Equivalences — SDI / TDI
  3. How Deep Can a Scuba Diver Go? Open Water vs. Advanced Open Water Limits — PADI
  4. Advanced Open Water Diver Program — November 2025 training bulletin — Scuba Schools International (SSI)