Pointer Sticks in Underwater Guiding

Pointer sticks, often made of durable metals like stainless steel, are familiar tools in the diving world. Originally, these simple devices were created to aid dive guides and instructors in pointing out hard-to-spot marine life, ensuring their group of divers could share in the awe of the underwater world. However, in recent years, their usage has expanded far beyond their intended purpose, leading to practices that are debated within the diving community. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, a PADI Career Development Centre, the belief is firm: dive guides and instructors should prioritize excellent buoyancy skills and thoughtful interactions with marine life, championing the ocean without leaning on devices like pointer sticks for unnecessary tasks.

The Traditional Role of Pointer Sticks

The primary function of a pointer stick is straightforward: to indicate marine life or points of interest that divers might overlook. This simple act is invaluable when guiding groups through vibrant coral gardens or sites with camouflaged critters, where pointing with a finger might not suffice to convey detail from a distance. A well-used pointer stick helps enhance the dive experience, allowing divers to focus their attention on unique marine life without getting too close and disturbing the habitat.

The Misuse of Pointer Sticks as Buoyancy Aids

An increasing trend seen among dive instructors and guides is using pointer sticks as a buoyancy control device. Instead of relying on proper breath control and body positioning, some divers put their pointer sticks into the sand or reef to steady themselves, believing this compensates for inadequate buoyancy control. However, this practice is problematic for several reasons:

1. Environmental Harm: Touching or pushing into the sand or reef with any tool can cause damage. Even in sandy areas, excessive use of a pointer stick can disrupt benthic organisms living beneath the surface or create unnecessary clouding that impacts the visibility for other divers.
2. Misrepresentation of Skills: For instructors and guides, buoyancy should be second nature. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, it’s believed that professionals should set an example by demonstrating impeccable buoyancy skills. An instructor seen using a pointer stick for stabilization sends the wrong message to their students, implying that such reliance is acceptable when it isn’t.
3. Safety and Control: The reliance on a pointer stick for buoyancy hints at a potential lack of confidence in an instructor’s or guide’s own diving abilities. Divers look up to their guides and instructors as role models. Therefore, showcasing excellent buoyancy, even in challenging currents or near delicate corals, reinforces trust and respect for the professional leading them.

Oceans 5 Gili Air’s Perspective on Buoyancy and Advocacy

A key philosophy at Oceans 5 Gili Air is that a dive guide or instructor should always exhibit top-tier diving skills. This includes the ability to maintain buoyancy without using external tools. The role of a diving professional extends beyond just leading dives; they are advocates for ocean conservation. It’s vital that their actions reflect this responsibility. Why should someone guiding divers need to plant a stick into the sand for balance when the focus should be on preserving the underwater world in its natural state?

Professionals should inspire divers with their confidence and skill. If instructors rely on external devices to maintain their position, it diminishes their ability to advocate effectively for the ocean. By demonstrating superior buoyancy, instructors communicate that this skill is both achievable and essential for all divers who wish to minimize their impact on marine ecosystems.

Tapping for Attention: When Is It Really Necessary?

Another frequent use of the pointer stick is tapping it against the tank to create noise and draw attention. While this method is effective for urgent communication, its overuse can be distracting and counterproductive. Around the Gili Islands, the marine life often consists of non-moving or slow-moving creatures. It’s common to spot a hawksbill turtle grazing on coral or a well-camouflaged scorpionfish resting on the seabed—sightings that won’t vanish in a flash.

The argument for incessant tapping becomes weak when considering that these creatures remain visible long enough for the guide to signal divers without urgent noise. Divers are already attentive to their guide’s body language, hand signals, and general movements. A guide who is in charge and comfortable underwater doesn’t need to create constant noise to direct attention. There’s ample time to maneuver and signal divers naturally.

Alternatives to Tapping:

• Hand Signals and Body Language: Guides can rely on pre-dive briefings that outline specific signals for different types of marine life. Divers who are well-informed will know to watch for cues such as a closed fist for a turtle or a sweeping gesture for a school of fish.
• Positioning: Experienced guides know how to position themselves so that they can catch a diver’s eye without noise. A small wave of the hand or an exaggerated movement can be sufficient to guide attention.
• Patience: As long as the fish or animal isn’t fleeting, there is no rush. Instructing divers to approach calmly and slowly reduces the need for abrupt attention-getting measures.

Pointer Sticks for What They Were Meant For

There’s a clear, responsible way to use pointer sticks underwater. Dive guides should use them solely for their intended purpose: to highlight marine life from a respectful distance. This ensures that divers get the experience they came for without compromising the well-being of the animals or their surroundings. It’s also essential to wield the pointer stick carefully, ensuring it doesn’t come too close to the marine life being pointed out. Overeager gestures can distress fish and other creatures or even cause accidental contact.

Ethical Guidelines for Using Pointer Sticks:

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Avoid using the stick to touch or come excessively close to animals. Let them remain undisturbed.
• Limit Use: The stick should only come out when necessary and should not replace thoughtful guiding techniques or strong diving skills.
• Keep Interaction Minimal: Use the stick to guide eyes, not hands. Divers are there to witness, not intrude.

Reinforcing Positive Practices at Oceans 5 Gili Air

At Oceans 5 Gili Air, training emphasizes developing essential dive skills without shortcuts. New divers are taught how to master their buoyancy with nothing but their bodies and equipment, setting a strong foundation. Instructors and guides are similarly expected to display these skills, instilling in divers a culture of respect for the underwater environment.

Pointer sticks are seen as helpful tools for specific circumstances, not a crutch. This approach is part of a broader mission at Oceans 5 Gili Air: to ensure that every diver leaves with a deeper connection to the ocean and the know-how to protect it. Being an advocate means showing that interacting with the ocean is as much about what you don’t do—such as touching or disrupting—as what you actively practice.

Conclusion

Pointer sticks, when used appropriately, enhance the diving experience by drawing attention to hard-to-see marine life. However, their role has been misused over time, with some instructors using them as buoyancy aids or noise makers. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the belief is strong: diving professionals should be the best examples of skill and stewardship. They should use their pointer sticks to point out wonders, not as a buoyancy prop or an alarm bell. Instructors and dive guides must remember their responsibility to the ocean, showcasing strong, confident, and respectful diving practices that future divers can aspire to replicate

Upcoming PADI Instructor Development Courses at Oceans 5 Gili Air: Book Your Spot Now

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion for diving into a full-fledged career, there’s no better place to do it than Oceans 5 Gili Air, one of the top PADI Career Development Centres in the world. Located in the stunning Gili Islands, Oceans 5 Gili Air has built a reputation for high-quality teaching and a family-like atmosphere. With the upcoming PADI Instructor Development Courses (IDCs) filling up fast, now is the time to book your spot to avoid disappointment.

As the November IDC is already fully booked, and spaces for the January and February IDCs are quickly running out, it’s essential to secure your place as soon as possible. Oceans 5 Gili Air limits the number of candidates to just six per course. This intentional decision to keep groups small allows for more personalized instruction and helps ensure each candidate gets the individual attention they need to become a confident and skilled dive instructor.

Why the PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air Fills Up So Quickly

At Oceans 5 Gili Air, quality takes precedence over quantity, and this philosophy extends to the PADI Instructor Development Courses. Each IDC is limited to a maximum of six candidates, ensuring an intimate and focused learning environment. The small group size creates a more personal experience, where interaction between the candidates, the Course Director, and the staff is both encouraged and essential to the learning process. This family-like atmosphere not only makes for a more enjoyable course but also promotes better learning outcomes.

Many dive centers offer PADI IDCs, but Oceans 5 Gili Air stands out by being one of the few places that truly prioritize individual growth. By limiting the number of participants, Oceans 5 Gili Air ensures that each candidate receives comprehensive and tailored training, addressing their unique strengths and weaknesses. The Course Director has the ability to concentrate fully on each candidate’s development, guiding them from theory to practical application and ensuring they are ready for the challenges of leading others in the underwater world.

It’s no wonder that these spots are in high demand. With the November IDC already fully booked, spaces in January and February are now dwindling as well. This high level of interest underscores the center’s outstanding reputation and the proven success of its graduates, who leave ready to take on instructor roles around the globe.

A Family Atmosphere: The Key to Success

One of the hallmarks of Oceans 5 Gili Air is its emphasis on creating a supportive, family-like environment. Diving isn’t just a technical skill to be mastered; it’s a passion that connects people from all over the world. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, you’ll find that the IDC program feels more like joining a tight-knit community than attending a formal course. This kind of setting is crucial in helping candidates relax, feel supported, and form lasting bonds with their peers.

From the moment you arrive at Oceans 5 Gili Air, you’ll notice the difference. You’re not just another candidate in a classroom—you’re a valued member of a small group where collaboration and camaraderie are fostered. The staff, led by experienced PADI Course Director Sander Buis, go out of their way to make sure everyone feels included and supported, no matter their background or experience level. This approach ensures that every candidate feels confident and comfortable, not only during the course but as they prepare to take the next step into their diving careers.

Personalized Attention from Experienced Professionals

The smaller group size at Oceans 5 Gili Air means that every candidate receives one-on-one time with the Course Director and other instructors. This is crucial because becoming a dive instructor isn’t just about passing a set of exams—it’s about developing the confidence and skills necessary to manage students, plan courses, and handle real-world situations in a professional diving environment.

Course Director Sander Buis has years of experience training dive professionals and takes a hands-on approach with each candidate. Sander’s goal is to develop confident instructors who are not only skilled in the water but also capable of teaching others in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. He works closely with each candidate to ensure they understand the PADI system, master teaching methods, and are fully prepared for the PADI Instructor Examination (IE).

Sander’s unique teaching style also includes practical scenarios that go beyond the basic requirements of the IDC. Oceans 5 Gili Air’s approach ensures that candidates are not just trained to meet the minimum standards but are pushed to become outstanding instructors who can adapt to any dive environment.

The Importance of Small Groups in Instructor Development

The decision to limit each IDC to six candidates is not just about providing a cozy atmosphere—it’s a pedagogical choice that significantly impacts the quality of instruction. With fewer students in the classroom and pool sessions, the Course Director and staff can spend more time on individualized instruction, helping each candidate work through challenges and improve their skills.

Many dive centers run large IDCs. While this may offer a lower upfront cost, the reduced personal attention means that candidates may not receive the same level of detailed feedback and support. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the smaller groups allow for deep dives into the material, providing the space for candidates to ask questions, practice skills multiple times, and really get to grips with what it means to be a professional dive instructor.

This focused learning also means that you’ll receive more feedback on your teaching style and performance. Whether it’s in the classroom, the confined water sessions, or open water scenarios, the Course Director will be able to guide you with personalized suggestions and advice. This kind of tailored instruction is invaluable in helping you grow as an instructor, allowing you to refine your teaching methods and build confidence in your abilities.

High Demand Means Planning Ahead

Due to the popularity of the program and the limited number of spaces, it’s vital to plan ahead. The upcoming PADI IDC in November is already fully booked, and spots for January and February are filling up quickly. With such high demand, securing your place in one of these courses requires early booking.

If you’ve been considering starting your journey as a PADI Instructor, the key is to book your spot as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute—Oceans 5 Gili Air’s IDCs are popular for a reason, and spaces disappear quickly. By booking in advance, you ensure that you’ll be part of this highly sought-after program without worrying about whether there will be room for you.

Oceans 5 Gili Air offers several ways to make your booking experience smooth and easy. You can contact them directly via WhatsApp or email, and their staff will be happy to guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with all the details you need to prepare for the course.

Why Book Your PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air?

There are plenty of reasons why Oceans 5 Gili Air is one of the best places to take your PADI IDC. Here are just a few:

• High-Quality Instruction: Oceans 5 Gili Air has a proven track record of producing successful, confident PADI Instructors. The course is led by experienced professionals who are dedicated to your success.
• Small Groups: With a maximum of six candidates per course, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance that is unmatched by larger programs.
• Comprehensive Training: Oceans 5 Gili Air’s IDC goes beyond the minimum PADI requirements, preparing you not just to pass the Instructor Examination, but to excel in your future career.
• A Supportive Environment: The family-like atmosphere at Oceans 5 Gili Air ensures that you feel comfortable, supported, and encouraged throughout your training.
• Stunning Location: The Gili Islands are known for their beautiful waters, vibrant marine life, and laid-back island vibe. It’s the perfect place to train and grow as a dive professional.
• Ongoing Support: Even after you’ve completed your IDC, Oceans 5 Gili Air continues to offer support and guidance as you embark on your new career.

The Final Step: Becoming a PADI Instructor

Taking the plunge into a PADI IDC is a major commitment, but it’s also the final step toward achieving your dream of becoming a dive instructor. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the IDC experience is not just about ticking off a checklist of skills—it’s about growing into the kind of instructor who can inspire others to fall in love with diving.

Whether your goal is to teach recreational divers or specialize in technical diving, the foundations you build during your PADI IDC will set you up for success. And at Oceans 5 Gili Air, you’ll do it in an environment that supports your growth, challenges you to improve, and equips you with the skills you need to thrive in the professional diving world.

So, don’t wait—secure your spot for the upcoming PADI Instructor Development Course at Oceans 5 Gili Air, and take the next step in your diving career. Spaces are filling up fast, and you won’t want to miss this opportunity to train with the best in one of the most beautiful dive locations in the world. Book now, and start your journey toward becoming a confident, successful PADI Instructor!

For many divers, the dream of becoming a PADI Instructor represents the ultimate achievement in their scuba diving journey. However, not all dive centers offer the seamless transition from Divemaster to Instructor. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we provide a unique internship to fulfill this dream by offering both the Divemaster course and the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) at the same facility.

Oceans 5 Gili Air, the only PADI Career Development Centre (CDC) on Gili Air, has built its reputation on delivering high-quality dive education, from beginner to instructor level. Our dive center not only provides top-notch training but also integrates environmental awareness into every course, making us a leader in marine conservation education in the Gili Islands.

A Seamless Path from Divemaster to Instructor

One of the most significant advantages of completing both your Divemaster and Instructor training at Oceans 5 Gili Air is the seamless transition between the two programs. Unlike other dive centers where you might have to switch locations or adapt to a new environment, Oceans 5 allows you to stay in the same familiar surroundings.

In 2025, Oceans 5 has scheduled 10 PADI Instructor Development Courses, providing ample opportunities for Divemaster candidates to continue their education and achieve their goal of becoming a PADI Instructor. These IDC programs are designed to perfectly follow the Divemaster internship, ensuring that your diving skills and knowledge are still fresh and sharp.

The Benefits of Staying with Oceans 5 Gili Air

The benefits of completing both courses at Oceans 5 Gili Air extend beyond just convenience. Here are a few key advantages:

1. Familiarity with the Dive Center and Staff

As a Divemaster candidate at Oceans 5 Gili Air, you become intimately familiar with our facilities, staff, and the daily operations of a PADI Career Development Centre. When you move into the IDC, this familiarity reduces any stress that might come with adapting to a new location or instructor. You already know how our dive center operates, the equipment, the pools, and the dive sites, allowing you to focus on the most important aspect of your training—becoming a confident instructor.

2. Continuity in Training

One of the most challenging aspects of becoming a PADI Instructor can be maintaining the high level of diving skill and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the IDC and the PADI Instructor Examination (IE). By completing your Divemaster course at Oceans 5 and immediately following up with the IDC, your knowledge is still fresh, and your skills remain honed. This continuity in training helps you feel more confident during the transition from Divemaster to Instructor.

3. The Role of the Course Director

At Oceans 5 Gili Air, our PADI Course Director plays a crucial role in both the Divemaster and IDC programs. During your Divemaster internship, you will have already met and worked alongside our Course Director, which gives you a head start when transitioning to the IDC. You’ll have firsthand experience of the teaching style, expectations, and support provided, making the Instructor Development Course a more natural progression.

4. Firsthand Knowledge of How a PADI Career Development Centre Works

As a Divemaster intern, you’ll get a firsthand look at what it means to train in a PADI Career Development Centre. You’ll observe other IDC candidates and gain insights into what the IDC process involves, including mock exams, presentations, and workshops. This behind-the-scenes understanding will give you a significant advantage when you enroll in the IDC yourself, as you’ll already be familiar with the course structure and expectations.

5. Becoming a PADI Instructor in Just 3-4 Months

At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the pathway from certified Rescue Diver to confident PADI Instructor can take just 3-4 months. This accelerated timeline is possible thanks to the efficient structure of our Divemaster internship and IDC programs. The IDC is a comprehensive 20-day course that focuses on realistic teaching techniques, environmental awareness, and mastery of PADI standards. It is designed to transform you into a competent and capable PADI Instructor who can teach and inspire the next generation of divers anywhere in the world.

The Unique Environment of Gili Air

Gili Air itself is the perfect backdrop for this transformational journey. The island offers a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the busier Gili Trawangan, allowing you to focus on your training without the distractions of a hectic party scene. Oceans 5 Gili Air has created a family-like environment where you are supported not only by our staff but also by your fellow candidates. The sense of community that you’ll find here will be an integral part of your learning experience, helping you build lifelong friendships and professional connections.

Additionally, Gili Air’s dive sites offer a variety of conditions that prepare you for real-world teaching scenarios. From calm, shallow waters ideal for beginner courses to drift dives that challenge your skills, you will experience diverse underwater environments that prepare you to teach in different locations worldwide.

Achieve Your Dream at Oceans 5 Gili Air

If you’re a diver dreaming of becoming a PADI Instructor, Oceans 5 Gili Air is the place to make that dream a reality. Our unique offering of both Divemaster and Instructor training under the same roof allows for a smooth, seamless journey from Rescue Diver to Instructor. With 10 PADI IDCs scheduled for 2025, now is the perfect time to take the plunge and embark on this exciting new career path.

At Oceans 5 Gili Air, we are committed to helping you succeed, providing all the tools, support, and guidance you need to become a confident, environmentally conscious PADI Instructor. Dive into your future with us, and transform your passion into a profession.