Why Anilao?
Perfect Nitrox Depths
Most of Anilao’s best macro and reef sites sit between 12–25 meters — the exact range where Nitrox delivers the biggest boost in bottom time. More minutes with the critters you actually came to see.
Endless Macro Opportunities
Anilao is the macro capital of the Philippines. With Nitrox, you get longer photo sessions, fewer time limits, and more chances to catch that perfect shot of frogfish, blue-rings, and mimic octopus.
Anilao is the perfect place to level up with Nitrox — longer bottom times mean more time on the subjects that matter: frogfish, rhinopias, mimic octopus, blue-ring, ghost pipes, you name it. Our sites are packed with critters at Nitrox-friendly depths (12–30m), so this certification directly translates into better dives from day one.
High-Density Dive Sites
With over 40+ dive sites within 1 hour by boat, Nitrox pays off immediately — more dives, more bottom time, less fatigue. It’s the ideal environment to really use what you learn.
WHY CHOOSE BLUE RIBBON?
Taught by Active Tech Divers
All of our instructors are active technical divers or tech instructors, not just recreational Nitrox trainers. We use Nitrox daily — for multi-dive days, long bottom times, deco planning, and safety margins — so what we teach is grounded in real-world diving, not just minimum standards.
Beyond the Card — Real Nitrox Skills
We don’t just explain Nitrox — we use it properly. Tank analysis, correct labeling, computer setup, MOD checks, PPO₂ awareness — these aren’t glossed over. You’ll leave knowing why you’re doing each step, not just ticking a box.
We teach Nitrox the way divers actually use it — with real computers, real mixes, and real diving.
Built for Precision & Safety
From accurate gas fills and analysers to instructors who think in PPO₂, CNS, OTUs, and gas density, Blue Ribbon operates with a technical mindset. That precision carries straight into our recreational courses — making your Nitrox training clearer, safer, and more confidence-building.
What You Learn
How to Plan Nitrox Dives Safely
Understand how Nitrox reduces nitrogen loading, how to calculate MOD, manage PPO₂, and stay within safe oxygen exposure limits.
How to assemble, check, and use your gear so it fits comfortably and works the way it should.Feel what it’s like to wear full dive equipment and move easily underwater with the guidance of an SDI Professional.
How to Analyse & Use Nitrox Correctly
Hands-on cylinder analysis, proper labeling, logging, and setting FO₂ on your dive computer so the mix, plan, and computer always match.
How to Get More From Every Dive
Use Nitrox to extend no-decompression limits, reduce fatigue on multi-dive days, and make smarter decisions about when Nitrox actually adds value.
Mask clearing, regulator recovery, controlled ascents, proper descents, buddy checks, and basic problem-solving.
Course Structure
eLearning – Fast & Flexible
Complete the SDI Computer Nitrox theory online at your own pace. Learn oxygen basics, Nitrox benefits and risks, MOD, PPO₂, and how dive computers handle enriched air — before you even arrive.
Gas Analysis & Labeling
Hands-on session analysing Nitrox cylinders with an oxygen analyser, correctly labeling and logging mixes, and verifying that your analysed gas matches your planned dive and MOD.
Fit your gear, practice basic skills in our 3-meter pool, learn your skills neutrally buoyant BEFORE heading out into the ocean
Computer Setup & Practical Use
Set up Nitrox on your own dive computer, confirm FO₂, MOD, and PPO₂ alarms, and learn how to safely use Nitrox on real dives in Anilao.
Course Prerequisites
Certification: SDI Open Water Scuba Diver, SDI Junior Open Water Scuba Diver, or equivalent.
Minimum age: 18, or 10 years old with parental consent.
You need to complete a Medical Form to make sure you are safe for diving, please review it prior to your course
Meet Your Instructors
Jonathan Venn
Jon is the founder of Blue Ribbon Dive Resort in Anilao, Batangas, established in 2010. With over two decades of diving experience, he specializes in technical diving instruction and professional-level SDI/TDI courses.
A passionate explorer and dive educator, Jon is known for discovering new dive sites around Anilao and beyond. He enjoys deep-water exploration and the challenge of spotting elusive pelagic species rarely seen by recreational divers. Whether teaching advanced courses or leading technical expeditions, Jon’s focus is always on safety, precision, and adventure beneath the surface
Ronel “Dang” Federico
Ronel, known to most as Dang, began his diving journey at Blue Ribbon Dive Resort and earned his Divemaster certification in 2016. With years of experience guiding both recreational and macro photographers around Anilao’s famous dive sites, Dang has developed a reputation for his incredible eagle eyes—spotting the tiniest frogfish, pygmy seahorses, and nudibranchs that others might miss.
In 2022, he became a certified SDI Instructor, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for marine life with new divers. Whether leading fun dives or teaching students, Dang’s calm, friendly nature and unmatched spotting skills make every dive both educational and unforgettable.
Jeff Zapata
Jeff has been part of the Blue Ribbon Dive Resort family since the early days, starting his professional journey as a Divemaster in 2011. With over a decade of experience exploring the reefs and slopes of Anilao, Jeff is renowned for his sharp spotting skills and calm, confident guidance underwater.
In 2023, Jeff achieved his Instructor certification, expanding his passion for diving into teaching. Known for his patience and detailed approach, he loves helping divers improve their skills while introducing them to Anilao’s incredible macro marine life—from colourful nudibranchs to rare frogfish. Whether guiding or teaching, Jeff ensures every dive is safe, relaxed, and full of discoveries.