About Ocean Lovers
The sea
called our souls.
Ocean Lovers is a PADI 5 ★ IDC Dive Resort & Hostel in Taganga, Colombia. Built for people who love the ocean, adventure, meaningful travel and community.
PADI 5 ★ IDC
Career development
Six Languages
EN, ES, DE, FR, NL & IT
Own boat
Daily diving
Conservation
Preservation & protection
Small groups
Max. 4 divers
Dive & Stay
All in one place
Our Story
Born from a passion
for the ocean
Ocean Lovers was founded by passionate divers and world travelers who believed in a different kind of dive center. A place where people feel at home, divers grow their skills and the ocean is always respected and protected. Today, Ocean Lovers has grown into one of the most recognized dive centers in Taganga, offering world-class diving, community, comfortable hostel experiences and real ocean care.
We’re not just a dive center.
We’re a family.
Lisi
Founder & PADI Elite Instructor
THE TEAM
People Who
live the ocean
EMma
The boss
Hello, I’m Emma. To be honest, I am the real owner of Ocean Lovers. When Lisi saved me in 2018 as a street dog I would have never imagined that I would ever own such a nice place. I really want to protect my owner Lisi, so if I bark at you don’t worry, I’m really friendly!
Elisabeth
Founder, CEO & PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer
Hey I’m Lisi! Originally I’m from Austria. I spent many years working as a dive instructor around the world. After freelancing for a while in Taganga, I finally made my dream of owning my own dive centre a reality. I worked in many dive destinations around the world, and have years of experience teaching all courses from beginner to professionals! Always open for a chat, I can talk for hours about diving (and pretty much anything else!) and welcome you to Ocean Lovers as if you are a long lost friend!
Ada
Hola, my name is Ada. Typically I’m the first person to greet you in the Dive Centre. I am a PADI Divemaster but now I prefer to stay dry and keep the shop organized. I have lived in Taganga for 30 years, and have a lot of knowledge on the local area. Always on hand to help you book a PADI course or some fun diving, I have an infectious laugh that can be heard all through the dive centre.
Milton
Hey, I’m Milton. I am here to help you book any diving activity or a stay at our hostel. If I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and playing football. I like to play video games or repair computers or other electronical devices. When you need help with anything, just tell me and I will do my best!
Felipe
Hola Chicos! I’m Felipe, but most folks call me Pipe. As a PADI Master Instructor and Marine Biologist, I’m deeply passionate about teaching you to dive and exploring the magical underwater world. With specialties in Tec Diving, Sidemount, Nitrox, and Tec Gas Blender, I’m well-equipped to guide divers into the depths safely. With years of experience under my belt, I thrive on diving deep and showcasing the diverse marine life to fellow enthusiasts. Join me for an unforgettable underwater adventure, where every dive promises a new discovery and a deeper appreciation for our oceans. ¡Vámonos!
Jorge
Buenas, I am Jorge! When I teach you about diving I can be kind of serious, but believe me I’m one of our most eloquent and funny instructors. Of all underwater life, I love the camouflaged creatures the most, like the stone fish, sea horse and other critters that are hard to spot. I was born in Barranquilla and am a family-oriented man who love football, that I practice in my free time with friends. Many people call me “George” and I am a real ocean lover, which you will instantly discover when meeting me and exploring the underwater world with me.
Edgar
PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) & Professional Chef
Hi, I’m Edgar, PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) & Professional Chef. My passion is helping people discover the underwater world with confidence, safety, and a smile. As a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, I focus on providing clear, patient, and personalized instruction so that every student enjoys the learning journey. My background as a professional chef taught me that excellence lies in the details—a philosophy I bring to every dive and every course. My goal is not only to help you earn a certification, but to give you an unforgettable experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Lena
Divemaster & Underwater Photographer
Hi, I’m Lena! I’m a Divemaster and underwater photographer; The ultimate combination to make sure you walk away with unforgettable memories of your time underwater. Three years ago, I left my career as a nurse to travel the world. Along the way, I fell completely in love with the ocean and couldn’t imagine traveling any further. That’s why I earned my Divemaster certification here at Ocean Lovers! Originally from the far north of Italy, I grew up bilingual (German and Italian) and also speak English and Spanish. That’s why it can happen that I mix up all the languages when I guide a mixed group! 😅
Tristan
I’m Tristan, a French instructor with a deep passion for the ocean and a calm, focused approach to every dive. I love helping people feel comfortable and confident underwater, whether it’s your very first dive or you’re continuing your training. For me, teaching is about creating a relaxed and supportive environment where you can truly enjoy the experience. I pay close attention to safety and detail, while keeping things fun and easy—so you can make the most of every moment beneath the surface.
Anamaria
Dive into adventure with me, Anamaria. I guide you through the mesmerizing world of scuba diving. As your calm instructor, I believe in taking the time each student needs to master every skill required for open water exploration. For me, diving is not just a hobby; it’s a soulful journey. Through diving, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about my body and mind. My motto, “Your mind controls your body, your breathing controls your mind,”
shapes my approach, empowering you to unlock your full potential underwater.
Let’s embark on an adventure together!
Cheo
Captain & Divemaster
Buenos Dias, I’m Cheo! After spending time in the military I decided to return to Taganga and be captain here. If you need my help or my knowledge I’m there for you. My 2 biggest passions in life are the ocean, and sports! When I am not hauling tanks into our boat and making it look easy, I am playing football for the local team! Not only I am a boat captain, I am also the captain of Taganga’s football team!
Emerson
Captain
I’m Emerson, but everyone calls me “Pole.” I’ve been working as a captain for over 15 years, and being born and raised here, I know the sea like the back of my hand. I may not smile all the time, but I have a kind and soft heart. When I’m not out on the water, I enjoy playing football, fishing, and occasionally diving. Above all, I take the safety of everyone on board seriously, making sure every diver returns safely to shore. With my experience, relaxed nature, and deep connection to this place, I make sure every trip feels authentic and truly unforgettable.
Albert
Captain
I’m Albert, part of the team for a few years now and one of your captains on board. Born and raised here, I know these waters inside out. I’m easygoing, always up for a good joke, and I make sure everyone feels welcome from the start. You’ll also find me helping you gear up and giving you a hand back on the boat after your dive. With my experience and calm energy, I make sure every trip is smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
Emil
Compressor Operator
Buenas! My name is Emil. My main task here in the divecenter is to refill the tanks. I studied electronical engineering so if anything here in the divecenter has to be repaired, I’m the right man for this job. My biggest passion is football. I play here in the local team of Taganga and also love to watch football if my favorite team Union Magdalena has a match.
Michu
Security
I’m Michu, Ocean Lovers longest serving member of staff. When Lisi took over in 2017 I came with the shop. Notoriously lazy, I can be found lying in the strangest positions. I don’t move often, but when I do it is normal to find me drinking out of the dirty water they wash the boots in! You wont get much action from me, unless you try to steal my chair >:(
Diving with purpose
We protect
what we love
We are committed to ocean conservation and a more sustainable future. Conserving nature and protecting it is part of who we are.
5000+ kg
of trash removed
100+
cleanup dives
1000+
reusable bottles saved
