Lisboa:Try Scuba Diving in Arrábida Marine Reserve w/photos

Imagine standing at the edge of Lisbon’s vibrant coastline, then hopping aboard a boat heading to the peaceful waters of the Arrábida Marine Reserve. For about $106 per person, you gain access to a beginner-friendly scuba diving experience in Sesimbra—an ideal way to dip your toes into the underwater world. Led by certified instructors, this tour takes you to some of Portugal’s most scenic waters, where you’ll breathe underwater for the first time, exploring shipwrecks, corals, and a variety of local fish.

What really sets this experience apart is the stunning landscape of Arrábida Natural Park visible from the boat, and the chance to see unique regional wildlife up close. Plus, the inclusion of professional photos means you won’t just remember your underwater adventure—you’ll have proof to share. It’s a perfect activity for those curious about marine life or anyone seeking a fun, safe introduction to scuba.

One thing to keep in mind is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your arrival at the meeting point. The tour starts near Clube Naval de Sesimbra, at a parking lot with a casual, approachable vibe. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided outdoor activities, are comfortable in the water, and are ready for an adventure that combines scenic boat rides with underwater discovery.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Perfect for first-timers, with thorough briefings and professional guidance.
• Scenic views: Unique vistas of Arrábida Natural Park from the water enhance the experience.
• Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see shipwrecks, corals, and regional marine species.
• Full equipment and photos included: No hidden costs for gear or memories.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel with a 24-hour notice.
• Limited for some: Not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Arrábida Marine Reserve: A Natural Treasure

The tour begins with meeting your guides at a casual parking lot just outside the Clube Naval de Sesimbra. From there, you’ll board a boat that gently carries you toward the protected waters of Arrábida, renowned for its clear visibility and pristine environment. The boat ride itself offers spectacular views of the coastline and Arrábida Natural Park, providing a scenic preview of what’s to come beneath the waves.

The Briefing: Preparation and Safety

Before jumping into the water, your instructors give a comprehensive briefing explaining how the equipment works, safety protocols, and what to expect during your first underwater breath-hold. This step is crucial for building confidence, especially for those new to scuba. The guides are praised for their patience and friendliness, making sure everyone feels comfortable before proceeding.

Underwater Exploration in Calm Waters

Once suited up, you’ll descend into waters teeming with shipwrecks, colorful corals, and a variety of fish. One reviewer, Diana, shared how she saw “a wide variety of fish, octopuses, and beautiful corals,” which hints at the richness of marine life here. Visibility is often excellent, and the experience is tailored so that you can breathe normally—an incredible feeling for first-timers.

The activity generally lasts long enough for you to enjoy the underwater scenery without feeling rushed, thanks to the professional guidance of experienced instructors like Filipe, who received high praise for their attentiveness and friendliness.

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The Fun Part: Photos and Memories

Included in the package is a photo service. This means you’ll leave with pictures of yourself underwater, a bonus that many travelers find priceless. It’s a nice touch that helps you relive the experience long after the tour concludes.

The Return and Reflection

After your underwater adventure, the boat takes you back to the meeting point. The whole activity, from start to finish, typically takes a few hours, striking a good balance for those with limited time but eager to try something memorable and different.

Practical Details and Considerations

While the experience is designed to be accessible, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. Transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point—near the Clube Naval de Sesimbra—by car or taxi. The meeting spot is easy to find, marked clearly with the “Arrábida Experiences” signage.

You should bring swimwear, a towel, and sandals, along with sun protection like sunscreen. The activity is available in multiple languages—Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish—making it accessible for international visitors.

The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with back problems, due to safety reasons. You can reserve your spot and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning your trip, with full refunds available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Reviews consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. Laura called the experience “unforgettable,” emphasizing how the organization and patience of the instructors made her feel safe and confident. Juliana also appreciated the attention to detail and follow-up, noting that it exceeded her expectations and left her eager to do it again.

Other travelers value the stunning underwater scenery and the chance to see marine life in its natural habitat. Czabanski mentioned the great welcome and guide, with particular praise for taking kids on their first underwater experience—highlighting its family-friendly appeal.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This scuba experience in Arrábida is perfect for first-time divers or anyone curious about what’s beneath the surface but hesitant to commit to full certification. The scenic boat ride and excellent visibility make it appealing to nature lovers, while the professional guidance ensures safety and confidence for all participants.

Travelers seeking a value-packed activity that combines scenic views, wildlife encounters, and the thrill of breathing underwater will find this tour well worth the price. It’s a hands-on, authentic adventure in one of Portugal’s most beautiful marine environments.

If you’re craving a scenic, educational, and fun introduction to scuba, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially ideal if you want a memorable story to tell and photos to keep long after your trip ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, this activity is specifically designed for those new to scuba diving. The thorough briefing and professional instructors make it accessible and safe for first-timers.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers technical scuba equipment, certified instructors, and photos of your underwater experience. You’ll also receive an SSI certification at the end.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sandals. Sunscreen is recommended, but note that sun protection isn’t provided.

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

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to get to the meeting point near the Clube Naval de Sesimbra on your own.

Are there age or health restrictions?
Yes, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with back problems.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

This beginner scuba tour in the Arrábida Marine Reserve offers a fantastic way to explore Portugal’s underwater beauty while enjoying scenic views and expert guidance. Whether you’re a curious traveler eager to try scuba or someone wanting a memorable experience in a protected marine environment, this tour provides a safe, fun, and utterly authentic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: