Good Questions

Ask us anything.

The answers people wanted before their first session: booking, certs, gear, and "but I can't really swim…"

Freediving · Mermaid · Scuba

Which adventure fits you?

Three ways to fall for the ocean. Find the one that sounds like you.

Getting Started

I've never done anything like this. Where do I start?
A Try session: freediving, mermaid or scuba, two hours, RM250 in a group or RM350 private. Zero experience needed. You'll know by the end of it which path is yours.
Can I come alone?
Absolutely. Most of our students joined alone and quickly made new dive buddies. Small groups make it easy to get to know everyone.
I can't swim well. Can I still join?
For Try sessions, basic water comfort is enough. Your instructor is beside you the whole time. For certifications we'll build you up gradually.
What's the difference between freediving, mermaid and scuba?
Freediving is one breath, no tank: the quietest way down. Mermaid adds the monofin tail and performance. Scuba is tank diving: longer time underwater, more gear. Try sessions exist for all three.
Is there an age limit?
Try Mermaid starts from age 6 and Mermaid training too (the SSI Mermaid certification itself is issued from age 12 under current SSI standards). Try Scuba starts from 8, freediving and Open Water from 10–12 depending on the course. Upper limit: none, just reasonable health.
Do I need to be fit?
Average fitness is plenty. What matters more is being relaxed in water, and that's exactly what we teach.

Booking & Payment

How do I book?
Hit any Book Now button. It opens WhatsApp with your details pre-filled, and we confirm your slot personally.
How do deposits work for expeditions?
A deposit secures your expedition slot (amount stated on each expedition page) and is non-refundable. The balance is due 1 month before departure.
What if I need to cancel an expedition?
Expedition deposits are non-refundable. Cancellation charges per person: 32–44 days before the expedition 50% of the expedition fee, 15–31 days 75%, and 14 days or less 100%. We keep these strict because island slots and logistics are locked in early. Book when you're sure, and get travel insurance.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule a class?
Pool sessions can be rescheduled with at least 24 hours' notice. Less than that (or a no-show) forfeits the session. Course cancellations per person: 22–29 days before class 50% of the course fee, 14–21 days 75%, 1–13 days 100%, and changes within 14 days of class also incur a RM100 pool management fee. If we ever have to cancel on you (weather, facility, safety), you reschedule free or get a full refund.
Do you do private or group classes?
Yes, private and small-group options exist for most courses, and group rates kick in from 2–4 pax depending on the course. Ask us on WhatsApp.
Can I buy a session as a gift?
Absolutely. Try sessions make great gifts. Message us on WhatsApp and we'll sort out a voucher.

Courses & Certification

Are the certifications internationally recognised?
Yes, we're an SSI training center. SSI certifications are recognised worldwide and live digitally in the MySSI app, so you can't lose the card.
Where do I find my certification after the course?
In the MySSI app (free, iOS/Android). Your digital card appears there once your instructor signs off your course.
How long does a certification take?
Try sessions: 2 hours. Pool Freediver: 2 days. Mermaid: 3 days. Courses with open water sessions (Freediver, Open Water Diver, Ocean Mermaid) add a 3D2N island expedition or lake sessions.
What happens if I don't pass?
There's no exam-hall pressure. Skills are practised until they click. If you need extra water time, we arrange it. Certification comes when you're genuinely ready, and that's a feature.
Can I continue to advanced levels with Shello?
Yes, freediving continues past Freediver, scuba runs through Advanced Adventurer to Stress & Rescue, and mermaids can go from pool to ocean. Ask us what's next for your level.

Equipment & Practical

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, shampoo and a hairdryer. All diving equipment (masks, fins, tails, tanks) is provided or included in the course fee.
Do I need to buy my own equipment?
Not to start. Rental is included in courses. When you're hooked and want your own fins or mask, we'll tell you honestly what's worth buying first.
Where do classes happen?
Klang Valley: The Lakeview Club (Subang) and Bukit Kiara Pool. Penang: Relau Aquatic Centre. Open water happens at lakes and on island expeditions.
Do you run classes in Penang?
Yes, pool sessions run at Relau Aquatic Centre in Penang. Check the schedule page and filter by location.
I wear glasses / contact lenses. Problem?
Contacts work fine under a mask (keep your eyes closed if the mask floods, we teach you how). Prescription masks exist too; ask us.
Is it safe?
Safety is the actual curriculum. Small groups, SSI-certified instructors, buddy procedures from day one, and we never push depth or time before you're ready.

Still wondering something?

Real humans, real answers, usually within the hour. Or ask the concierge in the corner. It knows the schedule.

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