To whom it may concern,
I have recently returned from Pattaya, Thailand having successfully completed my PADI Divemaster (DM) certification, the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC), and most importantly the PADI Instructor Examination (IE). I am now a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) and have just started teaching my first course. This is all thanks to the dedication and professionalism of SEAduction Dive Centre.
After deciding that I wanted to gain my professional qualifications somewhere slightly more exotic than the British coastline, I became attracted by the lure of Thailand as a diving friend of mine talked about a dive centre in Pattaya which he was most impressed by. He had originally planned to complete the PADI Open Water course, but ended up completing the PADI Advanced Open Water in addition. He said the guys were extremely friendly and the diving was great value for money, especially in comparison to what else was around.
After several e-mails all was set. In just short of three weeks I was to complete (subject to my competence levels!) my DM, an IDC and IE, aiming to become a PADI OWSI by the end. On arrival I was met at the centre by the team. Andy crosby and Danny O’Donnell are business partners and own SEAduction, and their top instructor, a PADI Master Instructor.
I was put up for the duration of my stay in one of their upstairs apartments; a luxurious and spacious room with all that you expect from a 4 star hotel: air conditioning, fridge, tv and dvd player, and a balcony with views overlooking the pier (where the dive boats leave from) and across Pattaya Bay. Fantastic!
Over the course of the next few weeks the training I received was first class. Their staff were extremely diligent, and never missed a trick. They made certain that everything was completed to the highest standard and that any weaknesses I had were immediately targeted and ironed out. They took tremendous pride in their work and you could tell it meant a lot to them. At the same time they made sure that it was all fun. By the time the IE arrived I was very confident. In the end the IE seemed easy in comparison to what they had put me through, but I guess that’s the art of a good Instructor. I wouldn't have wished it any other way; I have certainly had a good role model for my early career as a PADI OWSI.
Both Andy and Danny were extremely supportive throughout my training and exam, and nothing was ever too much trouble for them. They all made a great team. After my successful result we all went out for a celebratory night on the town – one to be remembered!
The next day I unfortunately had to fly back to England, but with very fond memories and of course the PADI OWSI certificate; a successful result. I can’t recommend SEAduction Dive Centre enough. You won’t find a more professional outfit, with such friendly and helpful guys, and at such fantastic value for money. I know ill certainly be going back!
Paul Gaisford
PADI OWSI