Aruba 2-Tank guided Dive for certified divers / own equipment

Imagine slipping beneath Aruba’s calm, clear waters to explore coral reefs and shipwrecks that most travelers never see. For certified divers with their own gear, this 2-tank guided dive offers an opportunity to enjoy some of the island’s lesser-known underwater sites, away from the crowds. Priced at $109 per person and lasting about 4 hours, this tour is perfect for those who want a tailored experience with knowledgeable guides in a relaxed, small-group setting.

What I really love about this experience is how it combines personalized attention with the chance to explore quiet, vibrant underwater spots. The fact that the tour is limited to just 6 divers means you’ll get plenty of guidance if needed, and the small group feels more like diving with friends than a big tour. Plus, the pickup from your hotel makes logistics easy and stress-free.

A potential consideration? Since you need to bring your own dive equipment (or rent at fair prices), this isn’t for absolute beginners or travelers who prefer to rent gear on-site. But for those comfortable with their own setup, this is an excellent way to maximize your underwater time. Overall, if you’re a certified diver looking for a personalized, relaxed, and authentic Aruba underwater adventure, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 6 divers) ensures personalized guidance and safety.
• Lesser-known dive spots mean less crowd and more marine life.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for easy planning.
• Two tank dives give you more time underwater and more chances to see marine life.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience.
• Bring your own equipment or rent nearby — a good idea for comfort and familiarity.

Why This Dive Experience Stands Out

First, the focus on less crowded, quieter spots makes this stand apart from more commercial dives. You’ll explore reefs and shipwrecks where marine life is lively and the scenery feels more authentic. Many reviews praise the stunning visibility and vibrant corals, with one diver noting, “Visibility and corals where the best! Lots of green eels and fishes.” That’s not something you find everywhere.

Second, the personalized guidance from knowledgeable instructors means you get help tailored to your comfort level. The guide “Alonzo,” mentioned in reviews, earned high praise for his attentiveness and expertise. If you’re an intermediate or experienced diver, you’ll appreciate the flexibility to explore at your own pace, with the guides pointing out interesting marine animals and features.

On the downside, the requirement to prepare your own gear might be a hurdle for casual travelers or those who prefer the convenience of on-site rentals. However, the availability of rental gear at fair prices and the option to get help from instructors makes this manageable.

This tour is ideal for certified divers who want to see Aruba’s underwater world with a smaller, more personal touch. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic marine encounters and are comfortable with their own equipment.

Itinerary Breakdown: What It’s Like

Starting point is the Pure Diving Aruba shop in Oranjestad, with a start around 8:30 am. The tour includes hotel pickup from key resorts like Palm, Eagle, Harbour House, and Renaissance, making it a hassle-free start.

Your guides will take you to two separate dive sites in Aruba’s quieter southern waters between 9 am and 1 pm. One common feature among these sites is their lesser-known status, meaning you’ll avoid the typical crowds of busy tourist spots, and instead, enjoy more vibrant marine life and clearer water.

The first stop might be a coral reef teeming with colorful fish, eels, and possibly even some turtles. Here, your guides will help you navigate and point out creatures you might miss on your own. The second site could be a historic shipwreck or another reef, offering a different perspective and marine scenery.

Most dives are from shore, which means the boat (or guide) will typically escort you to the water, but the exact method can vary. You’ll be underwater roughly 40 to 50 minutes per tank, giving you ample opportunity to explore comfortably.

Once back on land, you’ll be offered fresh fruit, water, and friendly conversation, perhaps swapping stories of what you saw underwater. The entire experience lasts about four hours, leaving your afternoon free to enjoy more of what Aruba has to offer.

What to Expect Underwater

Since the dives are performed with your own equipment, your comfort and familiarity with your gear are vital. The guides are happy to assist if you need help setting up or adjusting your equipment. The focus, however, is on enjoying the scenery, so feeling confident with your gear will enhance your experience.

The marine life you might encounter includes green eels, colorful fish, and coral formations that are often described as vibrant and healthy. Visibility is frequently praised, making it much easier to appreciate the underwater scenery. If you’re lucky, you might spot some rare marine creatures, enhancing the thrill of the dive.

The wrecks are generally shallow, allowing for safe exploration while providing intriguing historical and visual interest. The guides’ attentiveness ensures you don’t miss the details that make these sites special, whether it’s the rusting hull of a ship or the delicate coral growths.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour price of $109 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, fresh fruit and water, and the guiding service. Notably, dive equipment is not included, but rentals are available at fair prices, and you’re encouraged to bring your own gear if possible. The tour also adds a 7% local government tax to the total.

The tour begins at Pure Diving Aruba’s shop in Oranjestad at 8:30 am, with a maximum group size of 6 travelers, ensuring plenty of individual attention. You’ll need to confirm your booking, and most travelers aged 10 and up are welcome if they are certified divers.

Post-dive, you are advised not to fly for at least 24 hours, a standard safety precaution after diving.

Authenticity, Value, and Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of personalized guidance with access to quieter, more pristine sites. The price is competitive when you consider it includes multiple hours of underwater exploration in small groups, which enhances safety and the quality of your experience.

Many travelers have raved about the knowledgeable guides and stunning underwater scenery. One review states, “Two fantastic dives with the people from Pure Dive Aruba. Visibility and corals where the best!” This shows how well-regarded the guides are in helping visitors spot and enjoy marine life.

The small group size and flexible approach mean you’re not just another face in a crowd—rather, you’ll have the chance to ask questions, get tips, and really appreciate the underwater environment.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is best for certified divers who prefer to use their own equipment and seek a more intimate dive. It’s perfect if you appreciate authentic locations and want to see marine life in a less touristy environment. It’s also a good fit for those who value personalized guidance and want to maximize their time underwater in a relaxed setting.

While not suitable for non-divers or beginners, seasoned underwater explorers will find plenty to love here. The quiet sites and friendly guides make this an ideal choice for anyone wanting a genuine, high-quality underwater adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own dive equipment?
Yes, this tour is for those using their own gear, although rentals are available at fair prices if needed.

Is this suitable for beginners?
No, only certified divers are allowed, and they should be comfortable with their own equipment and dive procedures.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 6 travelers, ensuring plenty of personal guidance and space.

Will I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is included from Palm, Eagle, Harbour House, and Renaissance resorts.

What time does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 8:30 am at Pure Diving Aruba, with dives happening between 9 am and 1 pm.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

Are children allowed?
The minimum age is 10 years, provided they are certified divers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a certified diver eager to explore Aruba’s quieter, more vibrant underwater spots in a relaxed, personal setting, this tour hits the mark. The combination of expert guides, small groups, and the chance to see less crowded reefs and wrecks makes for a memorable adventure. You’ll love the stunning coral formations and abundant marine life that await beneath the surface, all within a flexible, safe, and friendly environment.

While it isn’t suited for non-divers or those who prefer to rent gear on-site, those comfortable with their own equipment will find this experience offers remarkable value for its intimate nature and authentic scenery. For travelers seeking a genuine, less commercialized underwater experience, this Aruba tour is a real gem.

In short, this guided 2-tank dive offers a personalized peek into Aruba’s underwater world, perfect for those who want quality, quiet, and expert guidance in a small-group setting.