Sesimbra is a fantastic spot for scuba diving thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and proximity to protected underwater areas. Whether you’re new to diving or an experienced diver looking for your next adventure, Sesimbra offers options that are accessible, safe, and memorable. We especially like the Sesimbra: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners for its welcoming atmosphere and personal attention, perfect for first-timers. But for those ready for a more expansive exploration, the Double Scuba Dive on a Marine Reserve promises plenty of underwater wildlife in a protected environment.
In this guide, we’ll explore four of the best scuba experiences available in Sesimbra, comparing what makes each one unique and helping you choose the best fit for your interests and skill level.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include a beginner-friendly experience exploring Arrábida Natural Park, an eco-conscious introduction to the biodiversity within Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, a short but immersive underwater adventure for newcomers, and a full marine reserve exploration for more seasoned divers. Each offers a different way to enjoy Sesimbra’s waters, so read on to find the one that suits your style.
1. Lisboa: Try Scuba Diving in Arrábida Marine Reserve w/photos
At number 1, this beginner’s experience is perfect if you’re curious about what scuba diving is all about but don’t want to commit to certification yet. The tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $106 per person. It starts at Clube Naval de Sesimbra with a safety briefing, then whisks you by speedboat to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park, known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Certified instructors guide you through your first underwater steps, teaching you equipment basics and safety protocols. Once in the water, you’ll see unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, all designed to make your first dive both safe and fun.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to experience spectacular views of Arrábida’s landscape while exploring beneath the surface. The boat ride itself adds a sense of adventure, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. With excellent reviews and a 5/5 rating, many visitors say it’s the perfect introduction to scuba diving.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a relaxed, well-organized introduction to scuba diving amidst some of Portugal’s most scenic natural surroundings. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a safe, enjoyable taste of the underwater world.
2. Lisbon: Eco-Friendly Beginner’s Scuba Diving
Ranked second, this eco-conscious tour offers a dive experience within Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, a hotspot for biodiversity. For around $108, you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring the marine park’s rich ecosystems without needing prior certification. The tour emphasizes environmental awareness, with guides sharing insights about the marine flora and fauna you’ll encounter, which include some of the most extensive biodiversity in Europe.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on sustainable diving practices. Many reviews mention how friendly and professional the staff are, making newcomers feel comfortable. You’ll get to marvel at the variety of fish and marine plants, all within a protected area that emphasizes conservation. The tour is suited for those who want to see Portugal’s underwater treasures without a diving background, making it accessible and informative.
Bottom Line: This experience is perfect if you want a low-impact, educational introduction to Portugal’s marine life in a protected, biodiverse setting.
3. Sesimbra: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners
In third place, this short, personalized experience costs $113 and lasts about two hours. It’s designed for those who want to try scuba diving in calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for beginners or anyone nervous about deep water. The tour provides all equipment, and no prior experience is necessary.
Led by experienced instructors, this tour takes place close to Sesimbra’s coast, where vibrant marine life surrounds you. Many participants highlight the personalized attention they received, with small groups ensuring safety and lots of hands-on guidance. One review states, “We truly enjoyed this experience and felt comfortable the whole time, even as beginners.” The shallow waters allow for good visibility and a relaxed introduction to the underwater world.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a safe, fun, and approachable first scuba experience, this tour meets all the marks, especially with small group sizes and expert guidance.
4. Double Scuba Dive on a Marine Reserve
At number 4, this tour offers the most immersive exploration of Portugal’s largest marine reserve. For $148, you’ll undertake two dives in Sesimbra Marine Reserve, renowned for its abundant marine life and healthy flora. The tour lasts about 3 hours and starts with a safety briefing before heading out for a full underwater experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on full marine reserve exploration, giving you the chance to see a wide variety of species in their natural habitat. Many reviewers comment on the good instruction and the chance to observe a significant diversity of underwater flora and fauna. It’s well-suited for those with some diving experience or confident beginners ready for a deeper adventure.
Bottom Line: This is the ideal choice if you want to maximize your underwater time and see a broad array of marine life in one of Portugal’s best reserves.
$148 per person
How to Choose
When picking the right scuba experience, consider your budget, comfort level, and interests. If you’re new to diving and want a gentle introduction, Tour 1 or Tour 3 are perfect. For those eager to learn about local marine ecosystems responsibly, Tour 2 offers an eco-friendly option. And if you’re comfortable with diving or aiming for a more comprehensive experience, the full marine reserve exploration is unbeatable for marine life sightings.
Book early, especially in summer, to ensure availability during popular times.
Final Thoughts
From relaxed, beginner-friendly options to full-day marine reserve adventures, Sesimbra’s scuba diving experiences cover a range of interests and skill levels. If you’re new to diving, the Sesimbra experience for beginners is a fantastic choice, with excellent reviews and personalized attention. For more seasoned divers or those seeking a deeper underwater exploration, the double dive offers the most extensive marine life encounters.
No matter what you choose, these tours promise memorable moments beneath Portugal’s waves. To make the most of your trip, consider booking early, especially during the busy summer months. With so many options, you’re sure to find a scuba adventure that matches your curiosity and comfort level.