Tenerife: PADI Beginner Scuba Dive in the Turtle Area

Planning your first step into the underwater world in Tenerife? For just $79, you get a comprehensive scuba experience that includes a boat ride, a safe introduction to diving, and the chance to spot sea turtles and colorful fish. Guided by certified instructors, this tour promises a memorable start whether you’re new to diving or just curious about trying it out.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized attention from guides like Toby and Elena, who are praised for their patience and professionalism, making even nervous beginners feel safe and supported. Also, the stunning marine scenery—crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life—makes every moment under the surface worth it.

A potential consideration is that turtle sightings cannot be guaranteed since these are wild animals. Still, most participants report success with about 95% of tours seeing turtles. This experience suits those eager to sample underwater adventure without a big commitment, especially if you want a safe, guided introduction that combines fun, education, and nature.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Designed for first-timers, with a thorough safety briefing and expert supervision.
• Affordable value: At $79, it offers a full experience—boat transfer, equipment, instructor guidance, and snorkeling—making it excellent value.
• Vibrant marine life: Expect to see sea turtles, colorful fish, rays, and other marine creatures in Tenerife’s clear waters.
• Professional guides: Highly praised staff, especially instructors like Toby and Elena, known for their patience and attentiveness.
• Flexible for non-swimmers: Even if snorkeling is your main goal, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views without diving.
• Wildlife unpredictability: Turtle sightings are likely but not guaranteed, so keep expectations flexible.

Tenerife’s waters are famed for their clarity and vibrant marine ecosystem. This beginner scuba experience, run by Travel Sub Dive Center, is designed to introduce novices to the thrill of breathing underwater and exploring Tenerife’s marine life, including its beloved sea turtles. For $79 per person, you get a full-day adventure—including a boat trip, guided snorkeling, and a safely supervised dive—making it one of the best ways to get acquainted with the ocean if you’re new to the sport.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: From Land to Sea

The experience begins at the Travel Sub Dive Center in Costa Adeje, located conveniently in front of pier 5 at Puerto Colon. When we arrived, the staff greeted us warmly, and the check-in process was straightforward. The briefing is critical: instructors explain safety procedures, equipment use, and communication signals, all in a friendly and clear manner. Their professional approach reassures even the most hesitant beginners.

Next, the group boards a speedboat—a lively and fun part of the trip, with the chance to enjoy the cool ocean breeze and panoramic views. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering a chance to soak in the scenery of Tenerife’s coastline and anticipate what’s to come. The boat typically takes us to a crystal-clear marine site, where the real magic begins.

The first activity is a scuba session, limited to a maximum depth of 12 meters. With a one-on-two instructor ratio, guides like Toby and Elena keep a close eye on everyone, ensuring safety and comfort. We loved how the instructors took their time, explaining everything patiently—important when you’re already feeling a bit nervous about breathing underwater for the first time.

Underwater, the experience is surreal. The water’s transparency means we could see a vibrant array of marine life, from schools of colorful fish to rays gracefully gliding by. Most participants, including those with no prior experience, find themselves amazed at the feeling of weightlessness and the chance to view the ocean from a different perspective. While turtle sightings are not guaranteed, about 95% of reviews mention seeing them, which makes it a very likely highlight.

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

After your dive, the adventure continues with a guided snorkeling session in prime waters, known for their biodiversity. The guides help point out interesting sights—like octopuses, eels, and various fish—and ensure everyone stays safe. The reviews glow with praise for the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with many mentioning how they felt well-cared for during the water.

Between snorkeling and diving, the boat makes a smooth transition, giving visitors a moment to relax, reflect, and soak up Tenerife’s stunning coastline. You might also catch a glimpse of dolphins or whales, as the waters here are known for their marine diversity, providing a bonus wildlife spectacle from the deck.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For the $79 fee, your package covers all snorkeling and diving equipment, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and insurance. The experience also features a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:2 during the dive, ensuring personalized attention. The boat ride is short but lively, adding to the fun.

You’ll need to bring essentials like a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, and your passport or ID—especially important for minors. While towels and swimming costumes aren’t included, wetsuits are provided, which is a big plus for comfort and warmth.

The Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Participants universally praise the guides, like Toby, Romana, and Elena, for their calm, patience, and professionalism. Their ability to explain technical details in an approachable way helps demystify the process, making beginners feel at ease. Several reviews highlight how guides went above and beyond—taking photos, spotting tiny creatures, and helping those who initially felt nervous.

One reviewer shared, “Toby was fantastic with us, very patient and very calm. I wasn’t able to dive as I started panicking but my son went with Toby and loved it,” illustrating the personalized care provided. This attentive approach is what turns a potentially intimidating activity into a joyful memory.

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The Marine Environment: Beyond Just Turtles

While sea turtles are the star attraction, most reviews mention seeing a variety of marine life—beautiful fish, octopuses, rays, and sometimes even dolphins. The underwater scenery is described as “out of this world,” and the visibility often exceeds expectations, thanks to Tenerife’s clear waters.

The experience isn’t just about the marine animals; the stunning coastline views from the boat, combined with the thrill of breathing underwater, make this a well-rounded adventure. Participants also note the professional organization, with safety briefings thorough but friendly, and guides attentive to individual needs—crucial when dealing with first-timers.

The Value for Money

Compared to similar offerings elsewhere, this tour provides great value. For just $79, you get a full-length activity—including equipment, professional guidance, transport, and insurance—that often costs significantly more in other destinations. Many reviewers compare the experience favorably, emphasizing the quality of instruction and the overall experience.

On top of that, the option to book and pay later adds convenience and flexibility, ideal for travelers uncertain about their schedules.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time divers, snorkeling enthusiasts, or those curious about the ocean. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends, as many reviews mention how accommodating guides are—whether someone is a nervous swimmer or a seasoned water lover.

Participants who like to combine adventure with comfort will appreciate the professionalism and safety measures. It’s also perfect for those wanting a memorable, Instagram-worthy experience without the need for extensive training or certification.

If you’re an adventurous spirit eager to try something new in Tenerife, this beginner scuba experience is a solid choice. It combines professional guidance, spectacular marine scenery, and a safe, supportive environment—ideal for those new to the water or even non-swimmers opting for snorkeling.

The chance to see sea turtles and a variety of marine life makes it feel like a genuine exploration rather than just a tourist trap. Plus, with glowing reviews praising the staff’s friendliness and attention, you’ll likely find yourself smiling long after you leave the boat.

It’s a great value for the price—a full day of fun, learning, and discovery that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this tour offers a memorable taste of Tenerife’s underwater treasures.

Who Should Consider It?

Travelers looking for an introductory water activity that combines safety, fun, and stunning scenery will find this tour ideal. It’s especially suitable if you want a guided experience that takes care of all the technical details, allowing you to relax and enjoy the moment. If you’re a first-time diver or snorkeler, or even if you’re unsure about your swimming skills but want to see the ocean from a different viewpoint, this is a perfect choice.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

If your main goal is to guarantee turtle sightings or if you’re an experienced diver seeking more challenging or lengthy dives, you might prefer other options. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children under 8, or if you have significant medical conditions, this experience might not be suitable.

Can I try scuba diving if I’ve never done it before?
Yes, this tour is specifically designed for beginners, with safety instructions and a maximum depth of 12 meters to keep things manageable for first-timers.

Are all equipment and safety gear provided?
Absolutely. All snorkeling and diving equipment, including wetsuits and masks, are included in the price, along with insurance.

Is it likely I’ll see sea turtles?
While turtle sightings aren’t 100% guaranteed, most participants report seeing them, with about 95% success according to reviews.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, and your ID. Wetsuits are provided, so no need to worry about swimsuits or additional gear.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8-17 can participate if supervised by an adult. However, children under 8 are not permitted.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour includes boat transfers, the underwater activity, snorkeling, and travel back, typically making for a full-day adventure.

To sum it up, Tenerife’s beginner scuba experience offers a safe, scenic, and memorable introduction to underwater exploration. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of marine adventure without the need for prior experience or certification. With attentive guides, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere, this tour provides excellent value and authentic fun for all ages and skill levels.

You can check availability for your dates here: