Obi Blu

At Obi Blu in Montecatini, Italy, learning to dive is framed like a growing tree: the main courses form the trunk, while specialties branch off in every direction. You can climb steadily upward or explore each branch — and as this PADI 5 Star Dive Resort likes to remind students, it doesn't matter where you begin. Every diver here has the potential to grow toward the professional level.

Courses to grow into

The centre's foundation is the PADI Open Water Diver Course, running from USD 538 over approximately five days. Some specialties can be taught alongside this first level, while others build on more advanced training — so your path is yours to shape, step by step.

With one PADI Instructor guiding lessons in Italian and a retail shop on site, Obi Blu suits newcomers ready to take their first breaths underwater as well as those keen to keep adding new skills. It's an approachable, personal starting point for anyone drawn to a life at sea.