SSI Instructor Training Course (ITC)
Do you have what it takes to lead?
The SSI ITC is the pinnacle of dive training. It is an intensive process where you will learn not just how to dive, but how to teach others to love the ocean. Under the guidance of our Instructor Trainer, you will master public speaking, in-water control, and the psychology of student learning.
This is not a "pay and pass" course. It is a rigorous education for those who want to work anywhere in the world.
Make the Ocean Your Lifestyle
Your students are waiting for you.
Meet Your Trainer
Mentorship, Not Just Training
You will be trained by a world-class team that brings European standards and local expertise to the Colombian Pacific. We do not believe in factories; we believe in mentorship.
Evgenikos Nikolas SSI Instructor Trainer
Experience: Almost 2 decades of teaching around the globe in multiple languages, with a truly global mindset.
Success Rate: 100% pass rate for Instructor Candidates at the IE (Instructor Evaluation).
Philosophy: "I don't just create instructors; I create educators."
Milagros Moreno SSI Assistant Instructor Trainer
Experience: Has assisted on over 20 ITCs, providing critical support and detailed feedback.
Success Rate: 100% pass rate for the candidates she has mentored.
Philosophy: Dedicated to guiding you through every step of your professional transformation.
How It Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: The Interview Every candidate must pass a personal interview with Nikolas. This is a video call (English or Spanish) to assess your dive knowledge, motivation, and readiness.
Interview Hours: 07:00 – 15:00 (Colombia Time).
Step 2: Registration & Deposit Once accepted, you pay the deposit (€1,600). This unlocks your digital materials. You will receive assignments and homework immediately.
Note: The course is only confirmed once all candidates have paid their deposit.
Step 3: Online Coaching (Pre-Arrival) You start studying before you arrive. You will have direct communication with the trainer to prepare your academic presentations.
Step 4: The Intensive Phase (Bahía Solano) We meet physically for the in-water training and academic workshops.
Start Date: February 28th/ 2026 /2027
Step 5: The Evaluation (IE) An external evaluator validates your skills.
Proposed Date: ~March 10th.
Who it’s for (requirements)
Before requesting an interview, please ensure you meet the Minimum Admission Levels:
Certification: Must be an active SSI Divemaster (or equivalent from another agency).
Gear: You must own a Total Diving System of professional grade.
Status: Must be in Active status with no ethics violations.
Crossovers: Candidates from PADI, NAUI, or CMAS are welcome. A registration/crossover fee applies (€100).
New to the Pacific? We’ve got your back. We handle the navigation and currents so you can relax, drift at your own pace, and focus entirely on the magic around you.
Price & booking
Invest in your skills and confidence.
What’s included
40 Days of Training: Complete professional internship.
SSI IE Fees: Covers the cost of the Instructor Evaluation and Exams.
SSI ITC Digital Kit: All required study materials and registration.
Instruction: Direct mentorship with Evgenikos Nikolas & Milagros Moreno.
Pool & Open Water Training: Unlimited use of training facilities.
Tanks & Weights: For all course dives.
Ankla Azul Professional Pack: Team shirt and cap.
Payment Terms:
- Deposit: €1,600 (Required to register). This deposit is Non-Refundable.
Balance: Remaining balance due by March 10th.
Strict Refund Policy:
The Deposit (€1,600) is 100% non-refundable once paid.
Once the course has started, NO refunds will be issued for the remaining balance. The total fee is 100% non-refundable after the start date.
Career Opportunities
We Don’t Just Train You. We Hire You.
Our goal with the ITC is to build the next generation of Ankla Azul professionals. We are constantly growing, and we prefer to hire instructors who have been trained under our specific standards.
The Pacific Promise: The top-performing candidates from this ITC will be guaranteed a job offer to work in Bahía Solano for the upcoming season.
Don't just get certified. Get hired.
SSI Instructor Training Course
40 Days
€2,460
Frequently asked questions
What are the prerequisites to join the ITC?
You must be at least 18 years old, hold an active Divemaster rating (SSI or equivalent from a recognized agency). You also need at least 60 logged open water dives to start.
Do I need my own equipment?
Yes. As a dive professional, you are expected to own a Total Diving System. This includes a BCD, regulator, dive computer, exposure suit suitable for the local environment, SMB, and surface signaling devices.
What happens if I am coming from another agency (PADI, NAUI, etc.)?
You are very welcome! If you are already a Divemaster from another agency, you can enter directly into the ITC. If you are already an Instructor, ask us about the SSI Onbording program.
What is the "Instructor Evaluation" (IE)?
The ITC is your training course. Once you successfully complete it, you will attend the IE. This is a 2-day evaluation conducted by an independent SSI Certifier to verify your teaching abilities in the classroom, pool, and open water. Passing the IE is what certifies you as an Open Water Instructor.
Do I have to study before I arrive?
Yes. Once you register, we will unlock your Digital Learning materials in the MySSI App. You must complete the academic reading and review questions before the practical sessions begin. This allows us to focus entirely on teaching workshops and in-water skills during the course.
Need Help Starting Your Journey?
It’s normal to have questions before your trip. Here’s what we can help with:
Scheduling: Want to combine this course with fun dives?
Electives: Not sure which 3 specialty dives to pick?
Groups: Coming with friends who are also getting certified?
Send us a message, and we'll help you plan the perfect itinerary.
What Divers Say
300+Reviews
Vinha Damanta
"I did 3 dives with the guys from Ankla Azul and all three were great... The diveshop gives much attention to safety and following the right procedures which gives you a very safe feeling. They have excellent gear almost new do they kit you out like a pro."
Magda K
"The dive center impressed us a lot – the equipment was top quality, making every dive comfortable and safe... Besides scuba diving, we had the chance to try freediving, which at the waterfall was an absolutely unique experience."
Nicole Reynolds
"I spent three days with the Ankla Azul team for scuba diving and it was an incredible experience... Ja, the main dive master and instructor, takes pride in his diving excursions and it's clear he has a huge love for Bahia Solano and the wildlife here."
Gloria Guillin Cuello
"This time, I did my first dive with Ankla Azul and three other friends. The experience was spectacular, from the beginning of the training to the practice session. Our instructor demonstrated kindness and knowledge, providing us with a safe guide."
Adèle B
Absolutely amazing experience! The dive was unforgettable, we could hear the whales singing underwater the entire time... The team at Ankla Azul is super professional, the equipment is top quality, and everything felt very safe and well-organized."
Dayana Jamaica
Excelente experiencia, Andres y Victor son unos duros, muy amables, atentos, cuidadosos, nos hicieron sentir seguras todo el tiempo y disfrutar del buceo aun nosotras sin saber nada, la pasamos muy bien, 100% recomendado
More Than Kicking Your Fins
At Ankla Azul, diving is more than kicking your fins. It's patient teaching, sharp safety, and real care for the place we call home. As an SSI Instructor Training Center and an SSI Blue Oceans Center (2025 award), we blend skill-building with ocean awareness—Fish ID, coral nursery work, community education, and rescue support—so every dive grows confidence and respect for Bahía Solano's wild Pacific.