Big Blue Tech: Technical Instructor
These courses are designed to take a current and experienced recreational instructor and technical diver into the world of teaching technical diving. These courses are taught by Instructor Trainers and Course Directors from their own agency. On top of learning the skills the student is required to have a great general understanding of technical diving prior to enrollment.
Tech Level I – Instructor
Extended Range
This course is designed to help the student become an entry level technical diving instructor.
Upon completion you will be able to teach technical extended range diving, non decompression technical diving using enriched air nitrox up to 80%
This course is a great step for those wishing to start to build their experience while teaching aspects of technical diving at the same time,
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Advanced Nitrox Instructor,
*Extended Range Instructor,
*Technical Foundations Instructor,
*Decompression Procedures Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced technical diver and recreational instructor first.
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Tech Level II – Instructor
Accelerated Decompression
This course is designed to help the student become an intermediate level technical diving instructor.
Upon completion you will be able to teach technical accelerated decompression diving,using different mixes of nitrox up to pure oxygen
This course is a great step for those who have experience teaching level 1 technical diving.
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Advanced Nitrox Instructor
*Tec Deep Instructor
*Accelerated Decompression Instructor
*Advanced Decompression Procedures Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced technical diver and recreational instructor first.
* Some courses require you issue a minimum amount of certifications for various disciplines
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Tech Level III – Instructor
Normoxic Trimix
This course is designed to help the student become an advanced level technical diving instructor.
Upon completion you will be able to teach diving on trimix 21% to 16% and technical accelerated decompression diving,using different mixes of nitrox up to pure oxygen. You may also teach the method of travel gas and wearing multiple cylinders.
This course is a great step for those who have experience teaching level 1 and 2 technical diving.
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Tec Trimix Instructor
*Mixed Gas Instructor
*Normoxic Trimix Instructor
*Intro to Trimix Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced technical diver and technical instructor first.
* Some courses require you issue a minimum amount of certifications for various disciplines
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Tech Level IV – Instructor
Hypoxic Trimix
This course is designed to help the student become an advanced trimix level technical diving instructor.
Upon completion you will be able to teach diving on trimix 21% to 10% and technical accelerated decompression diving,using different mixes of nitrox up to pure oxygen. You may also teach the method of travel gas and wearing multiple cylinders.
This course is a great step for those who have experience teaching normoxic trimix.
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Tec Trimix Instructor
*Advanced Mixed Gas Instructor
*Hypoxic Trimix Instructor
*Advanced Trimix Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced technical diver and technical instructor first.
* Some courses require you issue a minimum amount of certifications for various disciplines
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Cave Level I – IV – Instructor
Cave – Cavern Instructor
There are several levels of cave and cavern instructor, Many require that you have experience as a technical diver first. The physics and physiology don’t change, just the environment. Those who are already a technical instructor can contact us about options for moving into cave instruction.
Certification Names:
*Advanced Cave Instructor
*Cavern Instructor
*Cave Instructor
*Trimix Cave Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced technical diver and technical instructor first.
* Some courses require you issue a minimum amount of certifications for various disciplines
Available Locations: Phuket, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
CCR Level I – IV – Instructor
Rebreather Instructor
There are several levels of CCR instructor, Many require that you have experience as a CCR diver first, and your training will be specific to a unit as each are different. The physics and physiology don’t change, just the equipment. Those who are already a technical instructor can contact us about options for moving into CCR instruction.
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Air Dil Instructor
*CCR Instructor
*SCR Instructor
*Mixed Gas Dil Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced rebreather diver and technical instructor first.
* Some courses require you issue a minimum amount of certifications for various disciplines
Rebreather Unit Options: Pelagian DCCCR | Drager | Azimuth | Inspiration | Evolution | Kiss
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Blender – Instructor
Gas Blender
Becoming a gas blender instructor is quite simple. Once you are already a diving instructor and a gas blender you can complete the Gas Blender Instructor Course
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Gas Blender Instructor
*Nitrox Blender Instructor
*Trimix Blender Instructor
Pre-requisites:
*these vary depending on certifying agency. However you will need to be an experienced gas blender first and a recreational instructor
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Big Blue Tech: Scuba Engineer Courses
For scuba diving professionals, the need to be qualified in a variety of skills is increasing beyond diving level certifications. Having advanced medical training is as important as being able to maintain, test, service and repair scuba diving machinery and equipment. To help make you more employable and increase your diving knowledge we have worked with leading engineers to provide the following internationally recognized courses.
Upon completion, not only will the student receive several international certifications but also get a week long internship at our 5 star dive resort.
The program has three modules or components. With this modular design, the student can build a custom program suited to his or her needs.
Dive Industry Technician Course (DITC)
This is a 10 day ASSET & SITA and IDEST approved course, covering all aspects of service, repair and workshop operation.The course has a 9-module curriculum supported by a Dive Industry Technicians Handbook specially written to accompany the course.The course is designed to give as much emphasis on practical knowledge and skills with a large proportion of the course devoted to ‘hands on‘ practical work.
Syllabus includes:
* The physics of diving related plant and equipment
* Regulator service and repair
* Equipment theory – design and construction
* Compressor, air banks – operation and air quality
* Setting up a professional workshop
* Warranties and customer care
* Working practices, standards and procedures
* Regulations and standards
* Cylinder testing
Agencies: ASSET, IDEST, SITA, HSE
Pre-requisites:
Available Locations: Koh Samui
Enrollment: Course available on request.
Price: Email Us
ORIENTATION & ASSESSMENT COURSE (DITC)
The purpose of this course is to orientate candidates to ASSET Standards & Codes of Practices, British Standards, Heath & Safety Law, revise knowledge requirements, assess practical skills and experience so that the experienced Technician can gain ASSET Advanced Technician Certification. This certification is a pre requisite for IDEST Service Center Approval.
Agencies: ASSET, IDEST, SITA, HSE
Pre-requisites:
* 2 years experience as a technician
* 3 Manufacturers repair clinic certificates
* Evidence of experience etc.
Please contact us for information specific to this course
* Brings the experience technician up to date with the latest procedures for servicing life support equipment used in the dive industry
* Provides a certificate of recognition for the technicians experience. This may assist in obtaining permission to attend manufacturer service seminars.
* As the highest scuba technician rating, it further assists the candidate in acquiring work in the dive industry.
Available Locations: Koh Samui
Enrollment: Course available on request.
Price: Email Us
Cylinder Testing Course (Part 1)
The ASSET 2 day CYLINDER TESTING COURSE (Part 1) is the first part of a two level training scheme and introduces the theory and practice of cylinder testing.
The theory part:
* Cylinder testing practices and procedures
* Valve maintenance
* Thread gauging
* Standards
* Codes of practice
* HSE
The practical part:
* Inspection
* Measurement
* Hydrostatic Testing etc.
Key Benefits
* Comprehensive training in scuba tank and tank valve maintenance
* All the latest techniques and information used
* Essential for annual inspection of scuba tanks used in the recreational dive industry
Changes in UK and European legislation together with the requirement for ‘competent and approved’ persons to carry out cylinder testing has created the need for a higher standard of training and certification of those who carry out this work.
Agencies: ASSET, IDEST, SITA, HSE
Pre-requisites:
Available Locations: Koh Samui
Enrollment: Course available on request.
Price: Email Us
Cylinder Testing Course (Part 2)
The ASSET 2-day CYLINDER TESTING COURSE (Part 2) – ADVANCED is aimed at the experienced Cylinder Tester.
* Metallurgy
* Inspection
* Crack detection
* Determination
During this course the Cylinder Testers inspection skills will be honed and tested.
On successful completion of the course the candidate will be awarded the ASSET CYLINDER TESTING (Part 2) ADVANCED Certificate.
Key Benefits
* Covers the very latest techniques in advanced scuba tank visual inspection
* A practical exam with borderline pass fail examples verifies the inspectors skills
* The highest ASSET certification grade in scuba tank visual inspection
Agencies: ASSET, IDEST, SITA, HSE
Pre-requisites:
* Have completed the ASSET Part 1 course OR
* Have completed the DIVE INDUSTRY TECHNICIANS COURSE
Available Locations: Koh Samui
Enrollment: Course available on request.
Price: Email Us
Compressed Air Management Course
A new course introduced in to compliment the Cylinder Testing Course, but also for Dive Industry personnel or other industry’s with responsibilities for day to day compressor operation and maintenance plus filling of breathing air cylinders
The course covers general maintenance, operation, standards and relevant legislation.
Key Benefits
* Prevents costly damage to the compressor unit through lack of operator care
* Prevents costly damage or destruction of the dive centers scuba tanks through the moistures damage resulting from the damp air supplied from an incorrectly cared for compressor
* Provides proof of formal compressor and air bank training. When a new compressor stops working, manufacturers often blame the operator or the owner if the person responsible for compressor operation has no training. If the compressor operator has formal training, the blame for compressor failure shifts to the manufacturer or supplier of the unit.
Agencies: ASSET, IDEST, SITA, HSE
Pre-requisites:
Available Locations: Koh Samui
Enrollment: Course available on request.
Price: Email Us
Gas Blender Course
This course trains the student in the methods and procedures in making oxygen blends from 21% to 100% oxygen
This course covers the use of continuous flow blending, partial pressure and introduction to membrane systems
Key Benefits
*make extra money blending nitrox
* become more aware of a growing market in diving
* increase your employability
*counts towards Trimix Blender Course
Agencies: TDI, DSAT, ANDI
Pre-requisites:
Available Locations: Koh Tao
Enrollment: Course available on request.
Price: Email Us
Big Blue Tech: Diving Medical Courses
The needs of the diving industry are demanding in the extreme sense. Safety regulations and compliance issues are a major concern. The potential for injury is obvious and many regulatory and industry standards setting agencies have addressed this in new and tightened regulations.
Upon completion of the three core programs, the student will be prepared for work in remote locations (where most diving takes place) and able to deal with accidents ranging from coral cuts and abrasions to DCI (Decompression Illness)Paralysis.
We have developed a complete list of Emergency Response, Diver Medical Technician and Chamber Operator programs to prepare the student for the rigors of emergency medical field care. It is also an excellent class for physicians to be introduced to the principles and physiology of diving medicine and the hyperbaric environment.
Due to the available location of our programs, students may have the rare and unique opportunity to act as “chamber operators” and “chamber tenders” for actual patients. This type of actual “hands-on” experience is priceless. These clinical sessions are conducted under the strict and constant supervision of the DMT Instructor/Coordinator and Chamber physicians.
The program is designed and presented in a modular format. It allows an individual with no prior medical training to progress to a Diver Medical Technician certification, in accordance with the NBDHMT Standards – the most rigorous in the world.
The program has three modules or components. With this modular design, the student can build a custom program suited to his or her needs.
Emergency Medical Technician
The first component is the Emergency Medical Technician Basic Program. It is required for anyone operating on an ambulance in the United States and is the minimum medical training requirement for Diver Medical Technician certification.
The EMT Program includes:
*advanced airway
*defibrillation
*intra muscular injection
*medication administration
*glucose readings
*nebulized inhalers
*intravenous catheterization
Agencies: NBDHMT, IMCA, HSE, ANDI
Pre-requisites:
* for IMCA certification, student must be commercial diver.
Available Locations: Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak
Enrollment: Course run every 2 months. Space Limited
Price: Email Us
Diver Medical Technician Program
This is the second component of the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology. This course, which will provide the student with knowledge and skills in the specialized field of diving medicine. It will cover gas laws, diving physics and physiology, diagnosis and treatment of diving related illness and injuries, and multi lock hyperbaric chamber operation. This is an excellent introduction course for physicians and nurses interested in pursuing a specialty in Hyperbaric Medicine. For non-medically trained individuals, this program will provide Hyperbaric Chamber Operator certification.
Agencies: NBDHMT, IMCA, HSE, ANDI
Pre-requisites:
* for IMCA certification, student must be commercial diver.
*Emergency Medical Technician
Available Locations: Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak
Enrollment: Course run every 2 months. Space Limited
Price: Email Us
Remote Medical Technician
The third component is the Remote Medical Technician Program. This is a course of intensive study and practical labs. The primary objective of this class is to provide a knowledge and practical skills base.This includes the needed skills for a remote environment cardiac incident.
The RMT Program includes:
*thoracic decompression,
*orthopedic injury splinting
*emergency dental treatment
*emergency wound closure (suturing)
*Foley catheterization.
*ACLS for Basic Life Support personnel.
Agencies: NBDHMT, IMCA, HSE, ANDI
Pre-requisites:
* for IMCA certification, student must be commercial diver.
*Emergency Medical Technician
*Dive Medic Technician
Available Locations: Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak
Enrollment: Course run every 2 months. Space Limited
Price: Email Us
Participants
These courses are perfect for the diving professional to learn more about the medical side of diving and how to treat it, and other potential disasters that could arise in the remote locations that diving takes place. This course is ideal for the staff and owners of liveaboards and remote diving shops that make Asia the Number 1 diving destination in the world.
This program is also designed for Physicians, Paramedics, EMT’s, DMT’s, Diving Medical Officers, Chamber Supervisors, Nurses, Clinical Hyperbaric Technicians, Rescue Personnel, and Commercial Diving Professionals.
The various modules of the program will provide CEUs and CMEs for the various allied health care professional. Active DMT’s, EMT’s can also renew or refresh their skills and certifications by attending portions of this program.
Big Blue Tech: Rebreather Courses
A rebreather is diving unit that allows you to re-breathe the exhaled gas you have already consumed, unlike open circuit scuba, where you breathe directly from the cylinder and then vent all the gas into the surrounding atmosphere.
We only metabolize around 4% of the inspired oxygen, the balance is exhausted along with CO2 (carbon dioxide). The rebreather captures the exhaled gas and re-uses it by removing the CO2 and re-circulating the oxygen, it also adds fresh gas to the system to keep it at a life sustaining level.
There are three different types of rebreather: SCR Semi-Closed, CCR Fully Closed and Oxygen Rebreathers (not available). The Semi-Closed works on a principle of consistently adding fresh gas to the loop while re-using the exhaled gas. These units also vent a portion of the gas into the atmosphere, and even though this happens the gas supply lasts significantly longer than open circuit (recreational diving).
Once you start diving on a rebreather you many find it very difficult to come back to the dark ages of open circuit diving.
* for rebreather sales, parts and repairs please Email Us
Level I – CCR Diver
Introduction to Closed Circuit Rebreathers
This is for people who want to try Closed Circuit Rebreather diving.
It gives you a chance to use a unit with the help of a qualified instructor. You only need to be Open Water certified to get a chance to do a shallow dive with a rebreather unit.
This is a very safe course and it is done in a controlled environment. This can be accomplished in one short day. It is a good way to see how a rebreather works. If you do like what you have done, you can progress to the next level.
Rebreather Unit Options: Pelagian DCCCR | Drager | Azimuth | Inspiration | Evolution | Kiss
Pre-requisites:
*Certified Diver to 18m
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level II – SCR Diver
Semi Closed Rebreather Course
The length of this course is approximately 4 days. There is one day of theory, one day in the pool and two days on the ocean.
This course gives most people plenty of time to get comfortable with the SCR unit.
You must remember, the buoyancy characteristics are not the same as with open circuit. You will be shown how to assemble and disassemble your unit to develop confidence to achieve it on your own.
The two days on the ocean will provide no less than 150 minutes of bottom time, again to provide ample experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to dive silent and more comfortable.
Rebreather Unit Options: Drager | Azimuth
Pre-requisites:
* Certified recreational diver to use Enriched air nitrox up to 40%
* Minimum logged dives: 50
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level III – CCR Diver
Closed Circuit Rebreather Course (Recreational)
This course is similar to the Level II, SCR program except that you will be using a fully Closed Circuit Unit.
Minimum open water time is increased to 180 minutes. The pre-requisites are the same as in Level II, SCR.
Rebreather Unit Options: Pelagian DCCCR | Inspiration | Evolution | Kiss
Pre-requisites:
*Certified technical diver to use Enriched air nitrox to extend no decompression up to 80%
* Minimum logged dives: 50
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level IV – CCR Diver
Closed Circuit Rebreather Course (Technical)
For the more experienced certified rebreather divers who would like to do dives beyond the recreational limits.
This level of rebreather diving is obviously considerably more extensive. During the course we will take you to a maximum depth of 50 meters. We will be doing decompression no deeper then 9 meters with a maximum decompression time of 30 minutes.
There are four to five dives with a minimum bottom time of 180 minutes and a minimum run time of 210 minutes. Plenty of time will be devoted to practicing decompression procedures.
Rebreather Unit Options: Pelagian DCCCR | Inspiration | Evolution | Kiss
Pre-requisites:
* Certified technical diver to use pure oxygen to accelerate decompression.
* Level III CCR (or qualifying certification from another organization).
* Minimum logged dives: 100
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available weekly:
Price: Email Us
Level V – CCR Diver
Closed Circuit Rebreather Course (Mixed Gas)
This is the highest level you can reach.
The maximum depth for this course is 100 meters which should satisfy all needs. The minimum time using the unit during the course is 240 minutes bottom time with a total run time of 300 minutes.
To be able to dive these deeper depths you have to definitely be familiar with your equipment and your specific unit. You will have the confidence and ability to plan and execute these dives when you finish this course.
Rebreather Unit Options: Inspiration | Evolution | Kiss
Pre-requisites:
*Certified technical diver to use pure oxygen for decompression
*Certified helium mix gas diver
* Minimum logged dives: 200
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available monthly:
Price: Email Us
Big Blue Tech: Technical Courses
Technical diving is scuba diving’s “extreme” sport, taking experienced and qualified divers far deeper than in mainstream recreational diving. Technical diving is marked by significantly more equipment and training requirements to manage the additional hazard this type of diving entails. Tec diving isn’t for everyone, but for those who hear its challenge call, our courses are the answer.
Our courses are the most instructionally coherent and demanding tec diving programs available. They’re not easy – nor would you want them to be for this kind of diving.
We have designed each level to help the student understand each option. Each level is a goal to achieve and helps the student chart a course to their future in technical diving. Certification is dependant on each enrollment from cave to ccr. Since we offer technical courses from so many different training agencies we have simplified the terms for butter understanding.
No matter what agency you choose, essentially it’s your instructor that make the difference and not the card you get. For more information about our instructors have a look at our staff page.
Level I – Tech Diver
Recreational Limits – Technical Comfort
This is designed for recreational divers who want to expose themselves to overhead environments and have the added safety of diving in the redundancy of technical diving gear. Feel comfortable in all diving environments regardless of air consumption. Feel safe with having your buddy on your back.
This course is allows recreational divers to become certified to use technical diving gear under their own limits.
This is a 3 day course and includes 4 dives and a day of theory and academic study
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Technical Foundations
*Tec Basics Specialty
Pre-requisites:
*Certified Diver to 30m
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level II – Tech Diver
Technical Extended Range
If you’re interested in technical diving, but haven’t yet met the prerequisites for the Level III course, you can consider enrolling in the Level II Course. It is also a sub course of the full Level III course.
This course includes 7 Dives and is completed in one week.
You’ll learn to
* Make a gas switch, extended no-decompression dives using air and enriched air to 40 meters/130 feet
* Prepare for and respond to foreseeable technical diving emergencies
* Basic skills and procedures you’ll need as you move into deeper technical diving
*Wear up to 4 scuba cylinders.
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Extended Range Diver
*Advanced Nitrox Diver
*Tec Apprentice
*Tec Level 1
Pre-requisites:
*Varies based on certifying agency
*Certified Enriched Air/Nitrox Diver
*Certified to 30m
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level III – Tech Diver
Accelerated Decompression Diver
This course is the highest non-helium based diving level. This course will allow you to plan decompression dives using a variety of skills and gas mixtures. It will teach you how to be disciplined in diving and how to be part of a team.
This course includes 5 additional Dives and is completed in one week.
You’ll learn to
* Make a gas switch, decompression dives to max 56m
* Prepare for and respond to foreseeable technical diving emergencies
* Basic skills and procedures you’ll need as you move into deeper technical diving
*Deco Dive
*Wear up to 4 scuba cylinders.
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Technical Diver
*Advanced Decompression Diver
*Tec Deep Diver
*Accelerated Decompression Diver
Pre-requisites:
*Varies based on certifying agency
Level II – Tech Diver
*Certified Enriched Air/Nitrox Diver
*Certified to 30m
*Rescue Diver
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level IV – Tech Diver
Normoxic Trimix Diver
This course is intended to expose you to trimix diving without the need of travel gas. To dive on a mix that will sustain consciousness at all depths. This helps to remove narcosis and can gain you a few extra meters by removing oxygen as well.
What you gain is the ability to dive up to 75m comfortably and narcosis free which opens up far more dive destinations and locations.
This course includes 8-12 Dives and is completed in one-two weeks.
You’ll learn to
* Plan and execute technical dives using three gasses
*Recognize HPNS symptoms
*More advanced gas management and dive planning
*Expose yourself to longer decompression schedules
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, DSAT, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Trimix Diver
*Tec Trimix Diver
*Mixed Gas Diver
*Deep HE Diver
Pre-requisites:
*Varies based on certifying agency
Level III – Tech Diver
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
* The DSAT Tec Trimix includes basic hypoxic training
Level V – Tech Diver
Hypoxic Trimix Diver
This course is intended to expose you to trimix diving with the need of travel gas. To dive on a mix that will not sustain consciousness at all depths. This helps to remove narcosis and can gain you several extra meters by removing oxygen as well.
What you gain is the ability to dive up to 100m comfortably and narcosis free which opens up far more dive destinations and locations.
This course includes 8-12 Dives and is completed in one-two weeks.
You’ll learn to
*Plan and execute technical dives using three gasses
*Recognize HPNS symptoms
*More advanced gas management and dive planning
*Expose yourself to longer decompression schedules
*Avoid Hypoxia with use of travel gas
*Dive with up to 6 cylinders
Agencies: ANDI, TDI, SSI TXR
Certification Names:
*Advanced Trimix Diver
*Hypo Tri Diver
*Heliox Diver
*Hypoxic Diver
Pre-requisites:
*Varies based on certifying agency
Level IV – Tech Diver
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Big Blue Tech: Cave and Cavern Diving Courses
Cave diving is the last frontier in diving. Noted as one of the most dangerous and hazardous sports on the planet, this style and method of diving needs to be respected as much as the rush and enjoyment is cherished.
With several main land thailand cave systems and west coast island caverns we have many options throughout thailand. As you will note there is not level one in this curriculum. We recommend students enroll in the Level I Tech Diver course first.
Level II – Cavern
This course is designed to introduce the student to the philosophy of technical overhead diving environments. This 3 day course includes, shallow dive to learn basic skill, Land skills and theory, Two days diving in two different caverns. Total 4 cavern dives. Max depth 30 meters
Pre-requisites:
*Certified to 30m
* Minimum logged dives: 30
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level III – Cave Diver
During this course you will go beyond the limits of the light zone. The depth limit to the cave course is 50 meter, decompression is limited to 30 minutes. During this course you will have one day classroom and will enjoy 8 cave dives with a limited bottom time of 240 minutes and 320 minutes run time. Full technical equipment will be used during this course.
Pre-requisites:
*Certified technical diver
* Minimum logged dives: 100
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level IV – Cave Diver
Penetration during this level of diving is unlimited. Full technical equipment will be used with an unlimited time of decompression. There will be a minimum of 180 minutes of bottom time and a minimum of 360 minutes run time during the 6 cave dives.
Pre-requisites:
*Certified technical diver
*Certified Level III Cave Diver
* Minimum logged dives: 100
* Minimum age: 18 years old
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Level V – Cave
The final level of the cave diving courses for those who are up to the challenge. There will be four dives during this training course. Minimum bottom time of 150 minutes and minimum or 240 minutes run time.
Pre-requisites:
*Certified trimix diver
*Certified Level IV Cave Diver
* Minimum logged dives: 150
* Minimum age: 18 years old
*Minimum Logged Cave Dives: 25
Available Locations: Similan Islands, Phuket, Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Khao Lak, Pattaya
Enrollment: Course available on request:
Price: Email Us
Big Blue Tech: Local Diving
For inexpensive technical diving, you can’t beat Koh Tao. Perfect for divers earning hours on their ccr unit or technical divers wishing to get more experience. We also use these dive destination for beginner technical diving courses in calm and controlled conditions where depth is not the concern.
These trips can be included with your technical training course.
Sail Rock
Location: North of Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao, Thailand
Description: Huge rock island
Depth: 55 meters
Visibility: 10 – 30 meters
Rating: *****
Sail rock dive site is unique beyond other dive sites in the region for its variety and abundance of marine life. because the dive site is cylinder shaped with it exposed above the surface prevents fishing nets from being passed over the site.
We use this dive site to conduct decompression training dives or technical extended range dives. typically we will visit this dive site on full day trips as part of a 3 dive day which includes cooked meals and free drinks. All of which are included in courses. Those who wish to dive already certified should contact us.
Southwest Pinnacles
Location: Southwest of Koh Tao, Thailand
Description: large spread out pinnacles and sandy bottom
Depth: 30 meters
Visibility: 10 – 20 meters
Rating: ****
This dive site is used primarily for training and experience building purposes. For already certified technical divers looking for something different this is not the site for you. However many enjoy the secret pinnacle known only to a few divers on koh tao which has pristine sea fans due to it’s low diver traffic.
The Torpedo Wreck
Location: 2 hours north of Koh Tao, Gulf of Thailand
Description: Japanese cargo ship
Length: 60 meters
Depth: 42 – 54 meters
Visibility: 10 – 15 meters
Rating: *****
The Torpedo Wreck lies upright in 54m, is 60m long with two large holds and a crane collapsed onto the deck. Three levels of easy penetration on the stern – engine room, accommodation, wheelhouse. Not suitable for recreational divers as this would be a bounce dive. However technical divers can enjoy a great dive on this practically untouched wreck. The name derives from Thai fishermen who identified the teak logs in the holds for torpedo’s, i guess narcosis effects all.
The Unicorn Wreck
Location: Koh Tao, Gulf of Thailand
Description: Japanese Steel freighter
Length: 60 meters
Depth: 38 – 50 meters
Visibility: 5 – 10 meters (15 – 30 feet)
Rating: *****
The wreck is of a large modern 1960′s-70′s steel freighter. The vessel leans slightly on its port side at an angle of 60 degrees with the top of the bow at 38m and the keel of the bow area several meters above the seabed allowing divers to swim under this area of the hull. The wreck is completely intact. All penetration is very tight with only room for one diver. However penetration is not recommended even for technical divers due to silting. In april of 2008 divers from Big Blue Tech identified the wreck as the Hishidaiaya Maru but left it as Unicorn.
Chumphon Pinnacle
Location: Koh Tao, Gulf of Thailand
Description: Underwater pinnacle
Depth: 30 meters (98 feet)
Visibility: 20 – 25 meters (65 – 80 feet)
Rating: ****
Sharks, Sharks and more Sharks. This busy dive destination is used by everyone on Koh Tao. Although not suitable for open water dives since the site starts at 16m this dive site is one of our more accessible deep sites where 50m is found easily. The main attraction is Bull Sharks, Gray Reef Sharks and Whale Sharks which can be found daily. We use this site for training purposes and for fun technical diving when you just want to watch the sharks go by for hours.
Big Blue Tech: Technical Expeditions
Big Blue Tech conduct technical expeditions by chartering a vessel and visiting the sites we want and doing the diving we desire, These signature expeditions visit the best in diving and wrecks around the nation. Each trip includes accommodation before and after the trip, all meals and drinks, equipment and gas needs and marine parks fees if applicable.
All trips are maximum 2 dives per day when exceeding the 50m mark.
3 Day
This trip visits the wrecks within the 50-60m range allowing beginner technical divers or air divers to get the chance to seem some virgin wrecks. 6 dives are included in this trip and the destinations vary depending on location and weather. Check our news page for upcoming trips or contact us.
5 Day
. At this range access to World War 2 wrecks is available. However the further out we go, the deeper the wrecks become and you can easily find yourself diving at 75m on wrecks over 100-80 years old that have only been dived on a handful of times. Trimix certified is required for this trip. Includes 10 Dives
7 Day
This trip is designed for one goal and that’s the visit to the U.SS Lagarto in waters up to 80m. Along the way however there are very large and exciting world war wrecks to break up the trip giving you a full 14 technical dive package. Other 7 day packages will give you access to sites up to 150m reserved for CCR Divers only.
Private Charter
If you or your dive club wish to charter us to handle your expedition, perhaps you have a mark you would like to re-visit or you want to explore a region of these waters then we can help to make your trip a reality. Contact us for more information.
Big Blue Tech: Similan Islands
For some, the thrill of diving remains the marine life. Many have seen wrecks over and over and have never found the draw for their style of diving. For those who get a thrill from the best diving in the world combined with technical diving the similan islands is for you.
At time of publishing this content we are the only technical diving operator in thailand to have an office in Khao Lak and a liveaboard with technical diving facilities. We also have a speed boat for day trips.
These trips can be included with your technical training course.
Similan Islands in Brief
Great for: Small animals, underwater photography, snorkeling, visibility, dive value-for-money, advanced divers, technical diving
Not so Great for: Non-diving activities
Depth: 5 – 100m
Visibility: 20 – 40m
Currents: Moderate
Surface Conditions: Calm
Water Temperature: 26 – 29°C
Experience Level: Intermediate – advanced
Number of dive sites: 25+
Distance:65 km west of Khao Lak (3 hours, or 1½ hours by speed boat)
Access: Similan islands diving liveaboards and day trips from Khao Lak
Recommended length of stay: 4 – 6 days
Similan Islands Diving Season
Scuba day trips and overnight trips run from October through to May, with the very best conditions existing from November to April. Outside of these months, surface swells can adversely affect conditions. From May to August, the weather is often better in the Gulf of Thailand, so you might consider day trip diving in Koh Tao.
The Similan Island liveaboard season runs from early October to mid May, but there are a limited number of cruises all year round.
King Cruiser Wreck
“Sunken car ferry wreck”
Depth: 12 – 32m
Visibility: 5 – 20m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 27 – 30°C
Experience Level: Intermediate
Number of dive sites: 2
Diving Season: All year round
Distance: ~27 km east of Phuket (1¾ hours), 18 km west of Phi Phi (2 hours), 40 km southwest of Krabi (3 hours)
Access: Phi Phi Islands, Krabi and Phuket scuba diving day tours
Racha Noi
“Fringing coral island with drop-offs”
Depth: 5 – 60m
Visibility: 15 – 40m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface Conditions: Calm, but can be rough at North and South Point
Water Temperature: 27 – 30°C
Experience Level: South Point – Advanced divers only, all other sites – intermediate
Number of dive sites: 8
Diving Season: All year round
Distance: ~32 km south of Phuket (2 hours)
Access: Phuket liveaboard cruises and day trips
Deep Six
“Boulder Ridges”
Depth: 5 – 80m
Visibility: 25 – 30m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 26 – 29°C
Experience Level: Intermediate
Number of dive sites: 1
Diving Season: October to May
Distance: ~90 km northwest of Phuket, 65 km west of Khao Lak
Access: Diving Similan liveaboard and day trips departing from Phuket
Christmas Point Reef
“Arches and swim-through’s“
Depth: 5 – 80m
Visibility: 20 – 40m
Currents: Moderate
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 26 – 29°C
Experience Level: Intermediate – advanced
Number of dive sites: 1
Diving Season: October to May
Distance: ~90 km northwest of Phuket, 65 km west of Khao Lak
Access: Similan liveaboard diving safaris and day trips departing from Phuket
Stonehenge
“Boulders and alleys“
Depth: 10 – 60m
Visibility: 20 – 40m
Currents: Easy to moderate
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 26 – 29°C
Experience Level: Intermediate
Number of dive sites: 1
Diving Season: October to May
Distance: ~90 km northwest of Phuket, 65 km west of Khao Lak
Access: Liveaboards and diving day tours from Phuket
Richelieu Rock
“Top 10 in the world”
Depth: 5 – 35m
Visibility: 15 – 35m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 26 – 29°C
Experience Level: Intermediate – advanced
Number of dive sites: 2
Diving Season: November to April
Distance: ~200 km north of Phuket (10 hours), 80 km northwest of Khao Lak (4 hours, or 2 hours by speed boat)
Access: Thailand liveaboards and Khao Lak diving day trips
Recommended length of stay: 2 days
Hin Deng – Hin Muang
“Tekkie Dream”
Depth: 5 – >40m
Visibility: 15 – 40m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 27 – 30°C
Experience Level: Intermediate – advanced
Number of dive sites: 2
Diving Season: November to April
Distance: ~100 km southeast of Phuket (5 hours), 90 km south of Phi Phi (2½ hours)
Access: Diving Thailand liveaboards from Phuket, and day trips from Phi Phi
Recommended length of stay: 1 – 2 days
Big Blue Tech: West Coast Wrecks
Expeditions are about logistics, equipment, gas, support and diving. Finding the best wrecks and then taking you to them.
Recently described by Bruce Konefe as being “the new technical frontier“, Thailand has numerous world class sites for divers of all standards, making it an underwater adventure paradise. Some wrecks still remain unidentified and all sit just as they sank. Huge freighters, POW ships, drill ships, tankers, munitions carriers and even a US WWII submarine can be counted amongst the historical wrecks littering Thailand, The Andaman and South China Sea’s. All the wrecks listed have been located over the last five years and are truly untouched.
The museum provides a rich glimpse of the archeological riches of Thai waters, but it is probably the Kingdom’s natural treasures that are proving a greater test of diving skills. Thailand has a growing reputation among cave divers due largely to the limestone caves found all along its western coast in the Andaman Sea and mainland thailand.
Sun Shine 1
“Large Cargo Wreck“
The cargo ship is 130m long and 15-20m wide, lying in the sand on its starboard side at a depth of 93m. The actual origin unfortunately is still unknown, however, from pieces recovered, it’s presume to have originated in Europe, possibly even in Germany. Sight is very good, protected by currents, water temperatures lie around 20°C, allowing a dive to be an extraordinary experience.
Even though the position of the wreck is rather deep , the wreck promises a demanding dive requiring sophisticated levels of experience.
Discovered By: Deep Blue Divers, 2006
Diver Level: Hypoxic Trimix or CCR
Availability: October – May
Frequency: Visited once a month or more.
HMS Vestal
“The last British Royal Naval vessel sunk during WWII”
The Vestal was a British Minesweeper of Algerine Class. Actually the very last Royal Naval vessel sunk during WWII. The identification is now 100% confirmed as the bell has been located and positively identifies the vessel.
Algerine Class ship displaced 990 tons for a length of 65m. The motors where steam engines that could give a maximum speed of 16 knots. The armament was made of one 4 inch canon, 4 20mm canons and a Hedgehog mortar. The crew was made of 8 officers and a crew of 99.
The Vestal was hit by a Japanese Kamikaze plane and finally scuttled due to extensive damage on the 24th of July 1945. The ship now lies in 72m of water flat on its keel on a sandy seabed. The dive is a spectacular one. The amount of fish surrounding the wreck is fantastic.
Discovered By: Deep Blue Divers, 2006
Diver Level: Normoxic Trimix or CCR
Availability: October – May
Frequency: Visited once a month or more.
The SS Petaling
“Small Cargo Ship”
This seems to be a small cargo ship of an overall length of about 40m. Recently a team found a plate of the shipyard and we can now presume that it’s the wreck of the Petaling.
The story says that it was sunk by a British submarine cruising the coasts of Phuket. The crew that survived the attack ended up drifting down to Kata Noi Beach, deported by strong currents.
The vessel now lies off Kata Beach in 58m of water, flat on its keel with a slight list to port.
The status of the ship is now pretty broken down. This wreck has a number of portholes lying around it that do not match the actual size of the boat. Like most of the wrecks, this one has been colonized by schools of fish, Morey eels now live in the numerous cavity’s, and it’s not rare to spot rays lying on the surrounding seabed.
Discovered By: Fred Evans, 2002
Diver Level: Technical Diver
Availability: October – May
Frequency: Visited once a month or more.
HMS Squirrel
“British Minesweeper”
The HMS Vestal was thought to have been located back in 2002, recent identification of what was thought to be the sister ship turned out to be in-fact the HMS Vestal.
The wreck site we have been visiting for the last few year is in-fact confirmed as the HMS Squirrel as the bell of HMS Vestal was recovered and returned to the British Navy. This now clears up any confusion between the exact location of the two minesweepers.
Dives are challenging but rewarding for those willing to hit the wrecks. Advanced Trimix certifications are required for diving on the minesweepers.
Because it is known that lives were lost during the sinking, the site should be treated as a war grave and accordingly penetration of the wreck or the lifting of souvenirs is strictly forbidden.
Discovered By: Deep Blue Divers, 2002
Diver Level: Advanced Trimix
Availability: October – May
Frequency: Visited once a month or more.
Big Blue Tech: East Coast Wrecks
Expeditions are about logistics, equipment, gas, support and diving. Finding the best wrecks and then taking you to them.
Recently described by Bruce Konefe as being “the new technical frontier“, Thailand has numerous world class sites for divers of all standards, making it an underwater adventure paradise. Some wrecks still remain unidentified and all sit just as they sank. Huge freighters, POW ships, drill ships, tankers, munitions carriers and even a US WWII submarine can be counted amongst the historical wrecks littering Thailand, The Andaman and South China Sea’s. All the wrecks listed have been located over the last five years and are truly untouched.
The museum provides a rich glimpse of the archeological riches of Thai waters, but it is probably the Kingdom’s natural treasures that are proving a greater test of diving skills. Thailand has a growing reputation among cave divers due largely to the limestone caves found all along its western coast in the Andaman Sea and mainland thailand.
Uss Lagarto
“American Submarine“
During a joint radio co-coordinated attack of a Japanese convoy with the submarine USS-BAYA and USS LAGARTO on the 3rd May 1945, the Japanese escort minelayer HATSUTAKA recorded a depth charge attack on a US submarine in 30 fathoms (55 meters) of water. The BAYA was never able to re-establish radio communications with the LAGARTO and it is assumed that it was this attack that was responsible for her sinking. The ‘unusually alert’ HATSUTAKA crew was so vigilant in defending the convoy that it was also able to successfully drive the USS BAYA off.
Sadly, also visible was the massive damage caused to the port quarter forward of the conning tower. The LAGARTO had plainly sustained a direct hit from a depth charge or other large explosive ordinance. The destruction caused by this device had been sufficient to entirely destroy the external steel plating that contained several large buoyancy compartments and then penetrate much further into the sub to punch a large hole through the 1 inch thick high tensile steel inner pressure bulk head that contained the crew’s living spaces.
The wreck now lies upright at 75m. Penetration i not possible as the wreck is sealed. Recovery is prohibited as this is a war grave.
Discovered By: Mv Trident, 2005
Diver Level: Trimix Diver
Availability: January – October
Frequency: Visited 1-3 Times a year
HTMS Pangan
“Thai Navy Vessel”
Built in Japan in 1927 at 817 tonnes. She was designated Royal Navy Transport. She sank at 10pm on the 19th of July 1961 off the coast of Surrathani near the famous full moon island Koh Pa-ngan.
All 8 officers and 73 Crew were rescued a few hours later by a Japanese freighter. The Pangan had left Bangkok harbor carrying “Damaged Gunpowder” and was planning to dump it at sea. However she ran into very heavy seas, the engine broke, went out of control. Captain Pricha Kucachareon issued an SOS at 10pm and abandoned ship
However judging by the size of the vessel and the typically calm seas of thailand that report is perhaps not entirely accurate. There are signs of fire and explosion damage on the wreck.
Wrecks Details
This majestic wreck found about 60 miles north east of Koh Tao lying on it’s port side at 60m is the wreck we use for our Tech Deep Course.
The best feature of this wreck is it’s great visibility and many points of entry and penetration. It’s 80mm forward gun lying just below the gun placement. The words “Pangan” written clearly on the stern and the unique wildlife including frequent whale sharks scattered around the wreck.
With many penetrations and linking rooms this provides an interesting wreck for both students and experienced technical divers.
At the moment archaeological recovery is underway to retain as much history of the wreck before it sinks entirely or becomes too hazardous to dive.
Discovered By: Mv Trident, 2004
Diver Level: Technical Diver
Availability: January – October
Frequency: Visited once a month or more.
Tottori Maru
“Japanese POW Ship”
Built in Glasgow, Scotland in 1913 – 1914. The 6,057 Gross Ton ships were 423ft/ 141m long, 56ft/20m in breadth and capable of speeds of 10 knots.
This vessel was commissioned as a transport vessel supporting the Japanese Battle Group and also a ‘Hell Ship’. A ‘Hell Ship’ was a term used for any enemy vessel transporting allied POW’s, however no POW’s were on board at time of sinking.
The wreck lies on it’s starboard side with the highest point at 57 and 75m to the sand. The bow is only 10m from the end of the wreck but the rest of the wreck is intact.
The location of this wreck is not public however it is roughly 8 hours away from koh tao.
Due to the sheer mass of this wreck it is not possible to swim its length in one dive. Trimix is highly recommended for this dive however its is possible to have a rewarding dive on Air.
Discovered By: Mv Trident, 2007
Diver Level: Technical Diver
Availability: January – October
Frequency: Visited every few months
Seacrest
“Unocal Drilling Ship”
The seacrest wreck sank after a typhoon hit her during a drilling exercise. With the drill bit firmly in the seabed it had no chance against the rising seas and rough wind and sank in roughly 70m of water. A recovery operation was carried out and it’s location was kept secret until the Mv Trident re-discovered her in 2007.
The wreck is currently inverted and access is gained through it’s moon pool making this an exiting and challenging dive to navigate.
Re-Discovered By: Mv Trident, 2007
Diver Level: Technical Diver
Availability: January – October
Frequency: Visited every few months
Big Blue Tech: Training Team
Our technical training team is comprised of skilled and experienced individuals who excel in their own field of expertise. No one can train divers to do everything, with that we have specialists who focus on their own personal interest in the area they’re responsible for.
Our team work and live in a very small community of technical deep diving explorers who’s main goal is to train and expose divers to this ever growing style of exploration.
We provide technical diving in English, French, German, Spanish, Swedish, Thai and Japanese.
James Thornton-Allan
Director Technical Operations
James is responsible for the day to day operations of Big Blue Tech and the on going quality assurance of technical diving operations including the expanding selection of dive sites and training courses for Big Blue Diving branches nation wide.
James provides contact and liaison through all facets of technical diving at big blue and provides on going consultation for other technical diving companies and agencies. For all course and diving bookings please contact him directly.
Contact: James@bigbluetech.net
Matt Rolph
Director Hyperbaric Services
Matt is responsible for the Dive Medic Programs and provides ongoing support and education for other technical courses. His main goal is providing consultation to future technical divers and providing emergency support.
Everyone who dives with us meets Matt for a full check up prior to going into the water. Matt is a senior paramedic and dive medic responsible for evacuation and treatment of diving related injuries.
Contact: matt@bigbluetech.net
Jamie Macleod
Director Instructor Development (DSAT)
Jamie responsible for providing instructor level courses to those wishing to climb the PADI ladder of technical instructor courses in DSAT program.
When not training future professionals Jamie with his partner Stewart run the Mv Trident technical exploration vessel in the gulf of thailand.
Jamie is also our in house Thai instructor and is available for translation or entire courses upon request
Contact: jamie@bigbluetech.net
Stewart Oehl
Director Instructor Development (SSI-TXR)
Stewart is responsible for providing all courses to those wishing to climb the SSI ladder of technical courses in their new program of SSI-TXR. Stewart brings to the table years of technical diving experience which he shares with our students studying one of our courses. He is also responsible for technical instructor level certification for SSI-TXR
When not training future professionals Stewart, with his partner Jamie run the Mv Trident technical exploration vessel in the gulf of thailand.
Contact: stewart@bigbluetech.net
Bruce Konefe
Director Instructor Development (ANDI)
Bruce is responsible for the development and training of all ANDI courses at Big Blue Tech including Cave and CCR training up to Instructor Level. Bruce has several years experience in the cave systems and technical training in Thailand and brings an alternative style of teaching and certification for our customers.
Contact: bruce@bigbluetech.net
Hannah Lusby
Technical Dive Manager
Hannah is one of our in house technical dive managers who’s responsibility is for the west coast technical diving in the Smilan Islands and Phuket. She provides logistics, underwater guide, supervision and liaison with west coast dive operators.
Hannah is also developing advanced underwater communications and support with the use of “sea signs”
Contact: Hannah@bigbluetech.net
Niall Mackenzie
Technical Dive Manager
Niall is one of our in house technical dive managers who’s responsibility is for the east coast technical diving in Koh Tao and Koh Samui. He provides logistics, underwater guide, supervision and liaison with east coast dive operators.
Contact: Niall@bigbluetech.net
Oskar Sjostrom
Technical Dive Manager
Oskar is one of our in house technical dive managers who’s responsibility is for the mainland technical diving in caves and caverns. He provides logistics, underwater guide, supervision and liaison with many cave tour operators.
Oskar is also our in house Swedish instructor and is available for translation or entire courses upon request
Kontakta garna oss for mer information om tekniska dykkurser och dykresor runt hela Thailand med omnejd. Vi erbjuder grottdykning, rebreather(halvslutna och slutna), vrakdykning med vrak fran andra varldskriget. Vi tillhandahaller ledning och oversattning pa flera sprak inklusive svenska.
Contact: oskar@bigbluetech.net
Guillaume Fargues
Technical Instructor Development Coordinator
Guillaume is responsible for coordinating instructor development courses and assisting in their application. Regardless of what level you wish to complete be it technical diving instructor or open water instructor Guillaume creates an effortless process and private tutor beyond what is already provided.
Guillaume is also our in house French instructor and is available for translation or entire courses upon request
Contactez-nous pour en savoir plus sur les formations tech, ainsi que la plongee en cavernes et grottes et avec recycleur partout en Thailande. Nous offrons des cours individuels dans de nombreuses langues dont le francais pour tous les niveaux, de debutant a instructeur tech.
Contact:guillaume@bigbluetech.net
Dean Jenkins
Technical Divemaster Coordinator
Deano is responsible for the ongoing training and development of our Technical Dive Master Program. Those completing their tech dive master program will work closely with deano for all aspects from physics to water skills. Deano overseas your entire development and insures that all your diving needs are addressed including accommodation and equipment.
Contact: dean@bigbluetech.net
Tim Klein
Technical Multimedia Manager
In Tim’s former life he worked in the film and tv industry giving him many years of time behind a camera. Tim’s main role at big blue tech is looking after the training and supervision of individuals participating in underwater videography and photography while technical diving.
Tim is also our in house German instructor and is available for translation or entire courses upon request
“Contact me for technical diving training, courses and diving including caves, caverns, rebreathers in and around thailand. We provide one on one leadership in many languages including swedish.
Contact: tim@bigbluetech.net
Big Blue Tech: Eco Friendly
Living and working in a tropical paradise takes responsibility, we take this responsibility by supporting local efforts with technical support and logistics. We donate boat space, diving equipment and facilities for individuals conducting ecological assessments, clean ups, bio rock initiatives and training.
We also use our popular news section to create awareness of global ecological problems.
Underwater Cleanup
Big Blue Tech crew supports and volunteers underwater and beach cleanups monthly to help keep Koh Tao clean. Being technically trained means we have the skills and equipment to stay down much longer and recover large and dangerous items.
Beach Cleanup
We’re always happy to clean the beach and roads around our area, we even donate the Deep Jeep to help cart the garbage away for disposal. We’re not a particularly messy company but we feel its our responsibility to clean up since we brought the technology and mess here in the first place. And there’s usually great parties after.
Awareness
Our resort has stopped serving food items that are listed through Project Aware, we make sure to educate divers on the effects of humans on the underwater environment and are always willing to give free lectures and seminars to the local community. We also have our local staff educate their friends and family about the effects of waste and pollutants.
Wreck Preservation
We need our wrecks, when we have the time we work to preserve the items on the wreck before the sea bed burry them. We also help to educate people about being responsible and careful with what to remove from wrecks and what should remain. Quite often we dedicate dives to removing hazards and fish traps from the wrecks to protect marine life and keep the wreck clear and safe to dive.
Big Blue Tech: Underwater Multimedia
Big Blue Tech rely on multimedia for capturing precious moments for marketing, helping companies market their own scuba equipment, map wrecks, map dive sites and to enhance the technical diving experience.
We also provide this service for customers who want a DVD or photo album as a souvenir of their adventure with us.
Underwater Photographers
We use skilled and professional underwater photographers to capture and document our trips. It’s quite a challenge being a technical diver and then adding a camera makes the challenge much greater, so we prefer to use only the most experienced individuals.
During your time with us you will get the chance to meet these individuals on the livaboard and during your training.
For copies or rights to print our images please let us know and we will contact the individual photographer for you.
Underwater Videographers
Because our role is primarily instructing we don’t get the opportunity to film. However you can see wreck and technical diving footage courtesy of the History Channel’s Deep Sea Detectives who joined us in Koh Tao to film the USS Lagarto with Mv Trident.
Multimedia Internships
At the moment there are no certifying agencies who can provide courses. However hands on internship programs are available for people that want to learn how to get into this industry.
Big Blue Tech: Resettlement
You served your country now we’re here to serve you, unlike other companies we don’t take money from you just for paperwork. The get paid out of the courses you do, the rest is yours to do what you like. However we do not support military funded holidays. If you’re not looking to getting to this type of diving with serious intentions then this won’t be a good place for you to study.
We have many x-forces who have completed training with us from RAF or NAVY who we can put you in contact with for references.
Blue O Two
Working hand in hand with Blue O Two based in the United Kingdom we can provide technical training or technical explorations to members of the british forces wishing to do some hard core diving in cocktail conditions. Packages are available to help you get the most from your grant including accommodation, food bursaries, flights and exam fees.
The Transition
For many members of the British Forces it comes as quite a shock to leave their life, friends and surroundings and be exposed to such a dramatically different life with palm trees, bikinis and cocktails. Where we help is by meeting you at the airport but not just an employee but one of our very own former military crew members who have been where you’re just coming from. Plus it’s handy having someone you can talk to and show you the good bars for you’re first night!
ELCAS
At the moment the only recognized ELCAS course we offer is the Open Water Instructor Course.
Big Blue Tech: Technical Boats
Big Blue Tech own several vessels used for multiple purposes. These boats are used for local training and day trips. Each vessel carries a full on board staff, safety and communication devices, GPS Tracking, toilets, oxygen and first aid, kitchen with free amenities. We also have large dry areas and large dive areas for all the gear.
These boats are utilized by our recreational diving department primarily however when we get on, we take up so much space it ends up being us alone.
“Blue Dolphin”
This is our similan islands speed boat. We use this for 6 months of the year on each coast to match the high seasons. This boat has great speed and range with 3 outboard motors for full redundancy. This speed boat can accommodate 25 divers for up to 100km away from land.
“Banzai”
This is our main vessel used on Koh Tao for our long range diving. The boat has 3 compressors and on board blending system. Can accommodate 50 dives up to 40km from land. This is the vessel we use for full day trips to Sail Rock.
“Navakid”
Navakid is our second vessel used for medium range diving. With 2 compressors on board and limited space. Can accommodate 35 Divers up to 30km from land. This vessel is used for local sites like Chumphon and South West pinnacles.
“Big Blue”
Big Blue boat is our personal favorite, the reason is, it’s cheap, small but fast. We use this boat when we need to stay and do decompression training at a single dive site. This vessel has one compressor and limited space taking on a max 20 people, however 10 is a more comfortable amount.
Big Blue Tech: Technical Equipment
Deep down you want the best, so that’s why we spared no expense in stocking top of the line equipment. For details about our CCR Units please contact us, Rebreathers are only rented for courses.
For The Student
During your course you will use Apeks XTX series regulators, double bladder wings and a soft harness for the perfect fit. These are provided to you as part of your course and we don’t charge extra for equipment.
For The Diver
We are fully stocked to rent everything from deco regs to reels, from spare masks to lift bags, twin sets to o2 bail outs. All these things can be rented at your leisure and can be arranged whenever you like. We simply ask that if you break something, you fix it.
Computers
We primarily use Suunto Vytecs with 3 gas modes for our diving. They’re inexpensive, reliable and perfect for our diving. We have access to VR3 computer for those doing their Trimix course and CCR Courses.
Suppliers
At this time we only use OMS, Halcyon and Apeks gear for rental, sales and service.
Big Blue Tech: Getting Here
Thailand is the land of sun, sand and smiles, however it’s probably not the easiest place to get to for diving. We are here to help you any way we can. We have access to book flights and transport cheaper then you can from home. We have offices in Bangkok and Chumphon where a rep will meet you and help you to your destination. And we have 2 resorts on both sides of Thailand for you to relax and enjoy when you’re done.
Flying
The closest airports to us are Bangkok and Samui. If you’re already in Asia getting to Samui airport is very easy. However for international travelers you will have to fly to bangkok first then connect to Koh Samui. This is the easiest way since from Samui to koh Tao it’s only a 2 hour ferry journey. If you fancy a bit of an excursion on the way the bus or train is what you’ll want. However train and bus takes about 8-10 hours and by plane it’s about 30 minutes.
Bus
There are several busses running daily from Bangkok to Chumphon which is the closest port to Koh Tao. These are local busses and we don’t recommend them for comfortable travel. However running twice daily are luxury coaches that run in the morning through the day and overnight making the journey about 8-10 hours. These busses are run in connection with the ferry service Lomprayah and Seatran
Boat
: This is a large vessel with air conditioning, amenities, toilets and flat screen tv’s showing the latest movies. However don’t be fooled by their advertisement of speed because they’re no faster than anyone else. We only recommend this ferry during calm seas, when it’s rough and windy even the most veteran ferry traveler will be ill
: This is typically a larger vessel and much better for sleeping since they have large long padded benches with the same amenities as the others. A few small differences make this our choice that they are direct and use a common pier so no one bugs you when you get off. They’re a single hull design so a much smoother ride no matter what the weather. On a personal note they play documentaries on the tv which can be a bit boring, especially their most recent one about northern lights… yawn.
: The night ferry is an awful, horrible slow, smelly, dirty experience. But if you have to do it you can be assured your own bed and privacy. Most people just get really drunk and pass out. There have been stories of people waking up on palm trees with a huge hangover just noticing the ferry is shipping palm trees. that’s like shipping snow to canada.
Train
We love the train, its the only way to get down to chumphon. Travel first class and get a bottom bed. Take plenty of water and snacks since they only serve food at the stops when local thai chefs try to sell you battered grasshopper. Not that were knocking that cuisine but we don’t recommend it for fresh western stomachs.
Big Blue Tech: Technical Credits
DSAT
Design Science and Technology
Not the best name in the world but is one of the fastest growing technical certification bodies in the world. DSAT is the technical branch of padi responsible for the PADI RDP and other tables and calculation systems. Being a padi branch DSAT is accessible and easy to get into for recreational divers. However they limit their certification to only 75m and open circuit.
TDI
Technical Diving International
. TDI is the most respected and recognized training body for CCR Rebreather systems world wide. TDI have been around for a long time and have taken the leap into the rebreather market with great success. Limited in educational material allows room for other agencies to take ground
ANDI
American Nitrox Divers International.
Don’t let the name American sway you, they are very international. ANDI has been spear heading cave and technical diving world wide for decades. Many of the technical manuals used today come from the creators and designers of ANDI
SSI TXR
Scuba Schools International Technical Extended Range
The new kid on the block arrives in the technical market with course offerings featuring many aspects on the wish list for years. Combining all the good and none of the bad from other training agencies, ssi txr appear set for wide recognition.
