Beginner Dive from Playa Chica with Instructor: A Practical Guide to Lanzarote’s Underwater Charm
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater, this beginner dive from Playa Chica offers a safe, accessible way to find out. Priced at just over $89 per person, this two-hour adventure in Lanzarote is designed specifically for newcomers, with an experienced instructor guiding every step. Starting from the calm, protected bay in Puerto del Carmen, it promises not just a taste of underwater exploration but a chance to see the vibrant marine life that makes Lanzarote such a special diving destination.
What we love about this experience is how well it balances safety and fun. First, the 15-minute thorough briefing ensures you understand the basics before entering the water. Then, the personalized attention from your instructor, Marta, in reviews, highlights how friendly and professional the staff are. Another highlight is the stunning underwater scenery—a variety of fish and the gentle, shallow waters make this suitable for complete beginners.
A possible consideration might be the cost of photos if you want to keep a memory of your first underwater moments, as the digital photos are an optional €20. Also, since it’s a short, two-hour tour, it’s best for those seeking a quick, low-commitment introduction rather than a full diving course.
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers curious about scuba diving, families with older kids, and anyone who appreciates a well-organized, safe, and memorable underwater experience. With excellent reviews praising the professionalism and the unforgettable views, it’s clear this is a worthwhile option.
Key Points
- Safe for Beginners: The tour is designed with first-timers in mind, featuring a clear briefing and gradual introduction to breathing underwater.
- Locally Guided Experience: The instructor takes you into the calm, protected bay right in front of the dive center, making logistics simple.
- Memorable Marine Life: Expect to see a variety of fish and enjoy taking digital photos during your shallow, 6-meter maximum depth tour.
- Affordable and Well-Reviewed: At $89, it offers excellent value, especially given the glowing five-star reviews from past participants.
- Flexible and Convenient: Pickup is available, and the tour starts at noon, fitting easily into most travel plans.
- Weather Dependent: The activity’s success relies on good weather; cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled.
A Detailed Look at the Lanzarote Beginner Dive
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Setting the Scene: Playa Chica and Its Benefits
Lanzarote, known for its volcanic landscapes and dramatic coastlines, also offers a surprisingly tranquil underwater scene. The tour starts at Playa Chica, a small, sandy beach in Puerto del Carmen, renowned for its clear waters and shallow protected bay. This location is ideal for beginners because it minimizes the challenge of currents and offers excellent underwater visibility, which is crucial for first-time divers.
From the moment we arrive, it’s clear that the area is well-equipped for small groups—no crowded, chaotic beach here. The dive center, Safari Diving Lanzarote, is conveniently located at Paseo de la Barilla, making it easy to access without fuss.
The Briefing: Preparation and Safety
The experience kicks off with a 15-minute briefing. Here, your instructor explains what to expect, how to use the equipment, and essential safety procedures. They will also have you fill out a medical questionnaire to ensure you’re fit for the activity, an important step that reassures many first-timers.
This part is crucial: it sets the tone for confidence. The instructor, Marta, and the team emphasize safety while keeping the tone light and friendly. You’ll learn how to breathe through your regulator, manage buoyancy, and perform a few basic skills in shallow water—these are designed to build comfort and prevent surprises once you’re in the water.
Putting on the Gear: Comfort and Confidence
Next, it’s time to don your wetsuit and full scuba equipment. The gear is modern and well-maintained, and the staff helps ensure a comfortable fit. This is where the practical nature of the tour shines. Rather than rushing into the water, the team takes their time to help you feel confident with your equipment.
Into the Water: A Gentle, Guided Journey
Once ready, you walk into the water together with your instructor. The shallow zone allows for acclimatization—an important step for first-timers. You’ll float effortlessly, experiencing the sensation of weightlessness while getting used to breathing through a regulator.
The initial exploration is within the bay’s safe confines, with the instructor guiding you through a few simple skills and familiarization. The focus is on enjoyment and connection with the environment, rather than technical challenges.
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The Underwater World: What You’ll See
The main attraction is the vibrant marine life. Expect to see a variety of fish darting around the rocks and coral, with clear water making for excellent viewing. The tour reaches a maximum depth of about 6 meters—perfect for beginners—and offers a safe yet fascinating glimpse into the underwater ecosystem.
Participants have praised the stunning views and the ease of the shallow dive, with one reviewer calling it “an unforgettable experience.” During the dive, photos are taken (included in the package), capturing your first underwater moments. These digital shots help preserve the memory and are often highlighted as a favorite part of the tour.
Return and Reflection
After about 30 minutes underwater, you surface and return to the beach. The experience ends back at the starting point, where you can relax and share your impressions. Many reviewers, including Jose D, describe the experience as “totally recommendable,” emphasizing the professional guidance and the incredible underwater scenery.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Balance of Safety and Adventure
The combination of a structured briefing, professional instructor, and shallow, protected waters ensures a safe environment. This setup allows beginners to relax and enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
The Quality of the Experience
The inclusion of digital photos is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to relive your underwater adventure. Many travelers appreciate the small group size—max 10 travelers—creating a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
Convenience and Authenticity
The tour’s location right in front of the dive center in Playa Chica makes logistics straightforward, and the option for pickup adds flexibility. The focus on local marine life and the friendly vibe from the staff contribute to an authentic Lanzarote experience.
What Could Be Better?
While the experience is generally excellent, some may find the cost of the underwater photos (€20) a bit steep if they’re hoping to purchase a large number of photos. Also, since weather can impact diving conditions, it’s worth planning the activity on a relatively calm day.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This beginner dive is ideal for first-time divers wanting a safe introduction, those curious about exploring underwater life without a heavy time investment, or travelers with limited time in Lanzarote. It’s also perfect for families with teenagers seeking an adventurous activity that’s safe and guided.
If you’re looking for an authentic, well-reviewed experience with fantastic marine views and professional guidance, this tour is a dependable choice. It’s a low-pressure, memorable way to step into the world of scuba diving and see Lanzarote from a fresh perspective.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a safe, friendly, and visually stunning introduction to scuba diving, this tour from Playa Chica hits the mark. The calm, protected bay and professional guides ensure you’ll feel comfortable while witnessing the lively underwater scenes. The modest price, combined with glowing reviews, makes this a solid pick for anyone curious but cautious about diving for the first time.
This experience suits those who value authenticity and safety, want manageable group sizes, and appreciate the natural beauty of Lanzarote’s underwater world. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll come away with not just photos but a genuine sense of achievement and wonder.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s specifically designed for newcomers with a short briefing and gradual water entry, ensuring you feel comfortable.
What is included in the price?
The price covers your use of all scuba equipment, a guided dive in the bay, and 30 digital photos of your underwater experience.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age limits aren’t mentioned. It’s best to contact the provider if you’re unsure.
How deep will I go during the dive?
The maximum depth is about 6 meters, making it ideal for beginners and those nervous about deeper waters.
What should I wear or bring?
You’ll be provided with a wetsuit, so just wear a swimsuit underneath and bring towel and sunscreen.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours before the start.
Where do I meet for the tour?
At Safari Diving Lanzarote, Paseo de la Barilla, 4 in Puerto del Carmen, which is near public transportation.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll receive a full refund or be offered an alternative date.
Are photos included?
Photos are not included in the price but can be purchased separately for €20.
How long does the experience last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, including briefing, gear-up, water entry, and return.
In short, this beginner dive from Playa Chica offers an accessible and enjoyable way to discover the underwater world of Lanzarote—perfect for those ready to explore beneath the waves with safety, professionalism, and a dash of adventure.
More Tour Reviews in Lanzarote
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- Teguise: Market and César Manrique Foundation Tour
- Lanzarote: Bike Rental and Discovering The Island
- Lanzarote: Janubio Salt Flats Guided Tour
- 4h Shared Catamaran sailing to Papagayo Beaches (12pers max)
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More Lanzarote experiences we've covered
- Arrecife/Playa Blanca: Timanfaya National Park Area Day Tour
- Teguise: Market and César Manrique Foundation Tour
- Lanzarote: Bike Rental and Discovering The Island
- Lanzarote: Janubio Salt Flats Guided Tour
- 4h Shared Catamaran sailing to Papagayo Beaches (12pers max)
- Lanzarote: Visit a traditional mill and taste our gofio.
- Lanzarote: César Manrique & Teguise Market from Cruise Port
- Lanzarote: César Manrique Foundation and Teguise Market
- San Bartolome: Karting Sessions In 200cc Biz Karts
- Aquapark Costa Teguise tickets with Optional Transfer
- Scuba Diving (Basic Diver – 2 dives)
- YogaSup Lanzarote