Cartagena: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

Cartagena: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course
Location: Bolívar, Colombia
Country: Colombia
Rating: 4.7
Price: $455 per person
Supplier Name: BUBARU SAS / BUZOS DE BARU

If you’ve already got your Open Water certification, this PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course in Cartagena offers a fantastic way to push your boundaries and see more of what the ocean has to offer. For around $455, spread over two mornings, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful dive sites in the Barú Archipelago with a small group of like-minded explorers, guided by a professional instructor. Expect longer dives, underwater photography, and the chance to try specialties like Wreck Diving or Nitrox—all while enjoying tropical fruit snacks between each adventure.

What we really like about this experience is how personalized it feels—groups are limited to just eight participants, which means you get plenty of individual attention. Plus, the included underwater photos ensure that your memories last long after you surface. Another highlight is the opportunity to explore multiple diverse sites in one trip, giving you a well-rounded underwater experience in a short time.

However, a potential consideration is that you’ll need to complete some online theory before the practical sessions, which requires a bit of planning. If you’re not comfortable with self-paced learning or are pressed for time, this might be a slight hurdle.

This course suits certified divers eager to expand their skills or explore new environments, especially those interested in longer, more challenging dives or specialties like wrecks or navigation. If you’re looking for a scenic, small-group dive experience in a tropical setting, this tour offers good value and a chance to grow as a diver while enjoying Colombia’s stunning marine backdrop.

Key Points

• Location: Dive in the gorgeous waters of the Barú Archipelago near Cartagena.
• Duration: Two mornings of guided instruction and dives.
• What’s Included: All equipment, boat transport, online theory, photographs, refreshments, and certification.
• Maximum Group Size: Small group for personalized attention—up to 8 participants.
• Dives: Five specialty dives, including mandatory Deep Diving and Underwater Navigation.
• Snacks and Photos: Tropical fruits and underwater photos help you remember your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cartagena PADI Advanced Course

The Setting: Marine Life and Dive Sites in Cartagena

Cartagena’s waters, particularly in the Barú Archipelago, are known for their clarity and vibrant marine life. We loved the way the tour starts early—around 7 a.m.—to maximize daylight on the water. The boat ride from Cartagena is smooth and scenic, giving you a taste of the tropical coastal environment before you even hit the water.

Once at the dive sites, you can expect varied underwater terrains—from coral formations to wrecks (if you choose the wreck specialty). The marine ecosystem here is lively and colorful, making it perfect for underwater photography enthusiasts. As one reviewer noted, “The underwater photos that were included in the package are truly memorable. I got shots of schools of fish and corals I never knew existed.”

The Course Structure: Learning and Adventure Side by Side

The online theory component is designed to be flexible—most participants complete it beforehand at their own pace. This approach means your practical days are dedicated to actually diving, rather than classroom work. The five dives include mandatory Deep Diving and Underwater Navigation, which are essential skills for more advanced diving.

Specialty options like Wreck Diving or Nitrox give you a taste of what’s possible beyond your Open Water certification. These specialties are chosen based on your interests and the sites available, allowing for a customized experience.

Highlights: Underwater Photography and Tropical Snacks

What makes this tour stand out are the added touches—videos and photos captured by your instructor that you can take home, plus the tropical fruit snacks that keep your energy up between long dives. We loved how these small details turn a standard course into a memorable experience.

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The Safety and Personal Attention

With small groups, your instructor can focus on your individual needs, providing quick feedback and adjusting dives if necessary. Safety is clearly a priority—each diver is guided closely, with clear briefings before each dive.

The Value: What Does $455 Get You?

Compared to many dive certifications in popular tourist spots, this price includes almost everything—all equipment, boat transport, online theory, photos, snacks, and certification. The convenience of a full package makes it a good deal, especially considering the quality of instruction and the beautiful setting.

Real Opinions from Travelers

One reviewer said, “The instructor was very attentive, and I felt safe and well-supported throughout. The photos they took made my trip even more special.” Another appreciated the small group size, noting, “It felt almost like a private tour, which I really valued.” Such comments suggest a high satisfaction level and a genuine focus on participant experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This course is ideal for certified divers wanting to extend their skills in a tropical setting. It’s especially good if you enjoy personalized instruction and diving in small groups. If you’re curious about specialties like wrecks or navigation, this course provides a solid introduction. It also suits travelers who want a scenic, hassle-free, underwater experience with the convenience of included photos and snacks.

Final Thoughts

The Cartagena PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course offers a strong combination of learning, adventure, and comfort. For around $455, you get five dives in some of Colombia’s most inviting waters, guided by experienced instructors who care about your safety and enjoyment. The inclusion of underwater photos and fresh tropical fruit snacks makes this tour memorable and value-packed.

If you’re a diver looking to boost your confidence, explore specialty dives, or simply enjoy beautiful marine environments in a relaxed setting, this experience is well worth considering. Small groups and personalized attention mean you won’t feel lost in a crowd—the focus is on your growth and fun.

While you’ll need to be prepared to complete online theory beforehand, the effort is rewarded with top-notch diving and personalized service. Whether you’re aiming for your next certification level or just want to see more of Colombia’s underwater treasures, this course hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have completed my Open Water certification before joining? Yes, this course is designed for certified divers looking to advance their skills.

How long do each of the dives last? Each dive is approximately 50 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore the vibrant surroundings.

Are all necessary diving equipment included? Yes, all equipment needed for the dives is provided.

What is included in the price? The fee covers boat transportation, online theory, all gear, underwater photographs, refreshments, and the certification.

Is this tour suitable for children? No, it’s not recommended for children under 15 years old.

How many people are in each group? The maximum group size is 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

What is the best way to prepare for the online theory? Complete it at your own pace before the practical days to maximize your diving experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience available in other languages? Yes, instruction is offered in both English and Spanish.

Whether you’re seeking to expand your diving skills or simply want to enjoy some of Colombia’s most beautiful marine environments, this course offers a practical, enjoyable, and memorable way to do so.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby