Scuba Diver Course (PADI)

Fast certification in Cebu is rare. This 2-day PADI Scuba Diver course at Scotty’s Action Sports Network ties together learning, gear, and a nearby cultural stop by Lapu Lapu Monument.

I like that you’re set up for speed: the course is designed to get you certified in about 2 days with a max depth of 12 meters / 40 feet under direct supervision of an instructor. It’s also structured for convenience, starting at Scotty’s c/o Shangri-la Mactan and returning you back to the same meeting point.

One thing to consider is that some essentials aren’t included—PADI materials are listed as not included and you may also need to plan for lunch (optional) and weather-dependent scheduling.

Key points worth knowing before you go

• Two-day PADI Scuba Diver certification with a max depth of 12 meters / 40 feet
• Equipment, towel, and bottled water included, plus all fees and taxes
• Small groups (up to 15 travelers), which can help you get more attention
• Start at Shangri-la Mactan at 9:00 am, then return to the same meeting point
• Bernie gets named in reviews for being patient and supportive during instruction
• Lapu Lapu Monument is part of the experience and is near where you’ll be based

Two-day PADI Scuba Diver certification: what the 12-meter limit really means

This course is built for one clear goal: you want the Scuba Diver credential without needing the longer timeline of a full open-water style track. The program description is straightforward—finish in about 2 days, then you’re certified for supervised underwater activity to 12 meters / 40 feet.

For you, that’s practical. It means the course is aiming at a specific comfort level and skills set, not a months-long project. You’ll be working within a defined depth boundary right from the start, so your training and later supervised experiences are aligned with that limit.

Also, the program frames supervision as a key part of the experience. Instead of sending you off on your own, you’ll be working under the direct oversight of a professional instructor while you’re gaining confidence and applying what you learn.

Price and value: what $270 includes (and why that matters)

At $270 per person, this isn’t positioned as a budget add-on. You’re paying for a structured certification path that includes the stuff that normally bumps costs up: gear and key on-the-ground basics.

Here’s what the listing includes:

• Use of scuba equipment
• Towel
• Bottled water
• All fees and taxes

That matters because scuba costs can get annoying fast when you add rentals, local fees, and little extras. When the pricing is bundled like this, you can plan with fewer surprises.

What’s not included:

• Soda/Pop
• Lunch (optional; may be provided with a fee)
• PADI material (you’re directed to contact about this upon booking)

So your true cost depends on your choices for food and whether you already have the PADI materials. If you want the cleanest, most predictable total, ask right away what’s required for the PADI materials portion and whether lunch can be arranged the way you prefer.

Where you meet near Shangri-la Mactan: start at 9:00 am and end right there

Your starting point is very specific: Scotty’s Action Sports Network Inc. (c/o Shangri-la’s Resort and Spa), Punta Engaño Rd, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu. The start time is 9:00 am, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

I like this setup for two reasons:

1. You’re not scrambling across town. Shangri-la Mactan is a known base, and the meeting point is tied to the resort area.
2. You avoid the last-day logistics headache. Being brought back to the same location makes it easier to plan what you do next—especially if you’re doing other things in the Mactan area.

The listing also says it’s near public transportation, which is a nice buffer if you’re not on a private driver all day.

The “Lapu Lapu Monument” stop: a quick Cebu side trip with real local context

One stop listed is Lapu Lapu Monument. It’s described as near your hotel base (where the tour starts), and you can visit before or after the tour.

Even if you’re mainly there for the certification, it’s a useful way to break up the day. It gives you a chance to step into place-based travel instead of treating Cebu as a checklist of only training sessions.

Practical note: since this is positioned as near your resort area, you’ll likely find it easiest to time around your course schedule. If you’re someone who likes photos and a little context between activities, this stop fits well.

The trade-off is simple: it’s not a long sightseeing day. If you want lots of walking, markets, and multiple attractions, you’d treat this as a short add-on while you prioritize the main training.

Included gear and comfort basics: plan around what’s provided

This is a big one for value and comfort. The course includes scuba equipment, plus a towel and bottled water. That means you’re not trying to source rentals or extra basics last minute.

When you’re traveling, it also reduces the mental load. You can pack light for the water part and focus on the things that matter:

• bring what you need for everyday comfort before the session starts
• plan for your own personal items (the listing doesn’t mention a broader “all personal items” package)

Food-wise, you’ll want to think ahead. Lunch is optional, and Soda/Pop isn’t included. If you’re hungry between parts of the schedule, you’ll likely want a plan rather than assuming it will be handled automatically.

Small group size up to 15: why that can change your learning experience

The maximum group size is 15 travelers. That number matters because scuba instruction tends to work best when the instructor can actually track everyone’s progress and needs.

In a group that size, you generally get a better chance for corrections to land quickly—especially when it comes to comfort with equipment and handling skills. The listing doesn’t promise personalized coaching in every moment, but a smaller cap like this is a good sign for practical supervision.

You’ll feel it most if you’re new or a little nervous. A training course moves faster when you don’t have to wait your turn for attention, and smaller groups often help that happen.

Instructor focus at Scotty’s: the Bernie factor in the reviews

The review feedback emphasizes instructor quality, and one name comes up clearly: Bernie.

The feedback describes Bernie as:

• patient
• supportive
• the kind of instructor who helps you absorb the skills without feeling rushed

That kind of teaching style matters because scuba gear and underwater procedures can be intimidating the first time. If you’re the sort of person who learns better when someone slows down and explains clearly, this matches what the best part of the reviews is pointing to.

So if you care most about calm instruction and someone who stays positive when you’re getting the hang of it, Scotty’s at Shangri-la Mactan is exactly the kind of operator you want.

Getting the most out of the 2-day schedule in Cebu

You’re booking an experience that runs 2 days (approx.), and it starts at 9:00 am on your first day. With only two days, you’ll get more out of it if you treat the schedule like a priority instead of a flexible “maybe” plan.

Here’s how to think about it as a traveler:

• show up ready to learn, not still in vacation mode
• plan around timing so you’re not rushing to get there
• treat any nearby sightseeing, like Lapu Lapu Monument, as a bonus you can fit around your course needs

Also, confirmation is sent at the time of booking, which is helpful when you’re organizing a tight Cebu itinerary.

Finally, the listing indicates the experience requires good weather. That’s not just a legal note—it’s practical. If conditions are rough, your schedule could shift, so keeping your other plans flexible helps.

Who this course suits best in Mactan

This PADI Scuba Diver course is a strong match if:

• you want certification quickly (the program is designed for about 2 days)
• you like the idea of max depth of 12 meters / 40 feet within supervised settings
• you prefer a base near a major resort area like Shangri-la Mactan
• you want included gear, plus clear fee handling (equipment, towel, bottled water, all fees and taxes)

It may be less ideal if:

• you’re looking for a long sightseeing itinerary (the listed sightseeing stop is Lapu Lapu Monument, and it’s positioned as near your base)
• you want meals and drinks included automatically (lunch and soda/pop aren’t included)
• you don’t want to deal with PADI materials, since those are listed as not included and require contact upon booking

Should you book this PADI Scuba Diver course in Cebu?

If your goal is fast, structured scuba certification with gear handled for you, I think this is a solid booking. The price isn’t trying to be cheap, but it’s clear about what’s included, and that removes stress when you’re traveling.

The biggest reasons I’d book:

• 2-day format aimed at getting you certified without a long trip commitment
• included equipment and basics
• instruction praised by name, especially Bernie’s patience
• a small group ceiling of 15 travelers

I’d pause before booking if you’re trying to keep spending ultra-tight or you’re not ready to handle the PADI materials and your food needs. Also, accept that the experience depends on good weather, so keep a little flexibility in your Cebu days.

If that all fits your travel style, this course is a practical way to earn a scuba credential while you’re already staying in the Mactan/Shangri-la area.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the PADI Scuba Diver course?

The meeting point is Scotty’s Action Sports Network Inc. c/o Shangri-la’s Resort and Spa, Punta Engaño Rd, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu, Philippines.

What time does the course start?

The start time is 9:00 am.

How long is the scuba diver course in total?

It lasts 2 days (approximately).

How much does the course cost?

The price is $270.00 per person.

What certification do I get and what depth can I go to?

You get certified as a Scuba Diver, with a maximum depth of 12 meters / 40 feet under direct supervision of a Dive Professional.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are use of scuba equipment, a towel, bottled water, and all fees and taxes.

What is not included?

Not included are soda/pop, lunch (optional; may be provided with a fee), and PADI material (you’re asked to contact upon booking).

How many people are in a group?

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.

Do I receive a mobile ticket?

Yes, the listing notes a mobile ticket.

What is the cancellation policy, and what happens with poor weather?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If the experience is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.