Calvi, on the northwest coast of Corsica, offers some of the most inviting waters for scuba diving enthusiasts and curious beginners alike. The calm, clear waters of the Gulf of Calvi make it an ideal spot for first-timers to explore the underwater world. We especially like the Calvi: Introduction to Diving Dive with an Instructor because it combines safety, accessibility, and a family-friendly vibe — perfect for those who want a gentle introduction without the need for certification. Plus, the chance to ride a speedboat into the Gulf makes it feel like an adventure from the start. For those eager to start with a more structured course, the PE12 Certificate Diving Lessons with Instructor offers a step into the world of certified diving, enabling you to explore further with confidence.
If you’re after a comprehensive learning experience, the PE20 Certificate Diving Lessons with Instructor is a standout, offering five dives to a maximum of 20 meters, with proper rigging and de-rigging instructions. For the more experienced or those seeking certification up to 40 meters, the PE40 Certificate Diving Lesson with Instructor provides not only advanced skills but also a certificate that’s valid worldwide. Whether you’re here for a quick taste or a full certification, Calvi’s underwater offerings make it an excellent choice.
1. Calvi: Introduction to Diving Dive with an Instructor
At number one, we recommend the Calvi: Introduction to Diving Dive with an Instructor because it’s a perfect fit for beginners. This 2.5-hour experience is geared towards those who want to dip their toes into scuba without the pressure of certification. The tour includes a ride by speedboat into the Gulf of Calvi, where the instructor will guide you through your first underwater experience. It’s suitable for ages 8 and up, making it a family-friendly activity.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on safety and comfort. You’ll learn basic skills like using the equipment, floating, and breathing underwater — all in the calm waters of Corsica’s coastline. With a solid 4.8/5 rating from 111 reviews, many visitors praise the patient instruction and the vibrant marine life that can be seen during the dive. The price of $105 per person is reasonable considering the personalized attention and the chance to see Corsica’s underwater beauty firsthand.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for those new to diving, looking for a safe, guided experience, and a relaxed introduction to Corsica’s marine environment.
2. First Scuba Diving Experience in Calvi (From 8 yo)
Coming in at number two, the First Scuba Diving Experience in Calvi (From 8 yo) offers another beginner-friendly option, perfect for younger adventurers and first-timers. For about 2 hours and at $105, this tour starts at Port de Plaisance de Calvi, with a quick 15-minute speedboat ride to the dive site, followed by one hour of underwater exploration.
This experience emphasizes the thrill of breathing underwater for the first time, with dedicated instructors ensuring individual attention. The clear water and abundance of fish create an ideal setting for a memorable start. Reviewers mention how special it is to breathe underwater for the first time, with many noting the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. The small group size and gentle pace make this suitable for families and nervous beginners.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with kids or first-time divers, this quick, friendly introduction offers a safe, enjoyable way to experience Corsica’s underwater world.
3. Calvi: PE12 Certificate Diving Lessons with Instructor
Number three on our list is the Calvi: PE12 Certificate Diving Lessons with Instructor. For $339 per person, this 2.5-hour course includes three supervised dives, allowing you to explore up to 12 meters deep. It’s perfect for those who are serious about starting their diving journey with certification.
What sets this apart is the focus on skill-building. You’ll learn how to operate the diving equipment safely, get comfortable in the water, and gain the confidence to dive independently. The instructor, with their professional guidance, will help you understand the marine environment of Corsica in greater detail. Although there are only two reviews, both rate it a perfect 5/5, highlighting the instructor’s thoroughness and patience.
This tour is best suited for beginners with some curiosity about certification, but not yet ready for the full PE20. It offers a solid foundation at a fair price considering the professional instruction and quality of equipment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners wanting to learn the ropes with a certification that’s recognized worldwide, preparing you for more advanced dives.
4. Calvi: PE20 Certificate Diving Lessons with Instructor
Next up, the Calvi: PE20 Certificate Diving Lessons with Instructor offers a full-on diving experience with 5 dives over several sessions, reaching depths of up to 20 meters. For $515, this is a great option for those who want extensive training combined with real underwater exploration.
What makes this course stand out is the comprehensive instruction on rigging, de-rigging, and diving techniques, all under the supervision of an experienced instructor. It’s perfect for adventurous beginners or those seeking certification to dive independently around the world. The course allows you to explore Corsica’s reefs and marine life more thoroughly than shorter dives – a real value for the dedicated learner.
Participants generally find the experience rewarding, with detailed guidance on equipment use and diving safety. It’s best suited for those ready to commit to a multi-session course and eager to develop their skills to a professional level.
Bottom Line: For travelers serious about diving, this offers a detailed, hands-on learning environment with certification that opens doors worldwide.
$515 per person
5. Calvi: PE40 Certificate Diving Lesson with Instructor
Finally, the Calvi: PE40 Certificate Diving Lesson with Instructor provides a comprehensive certification course with three dives to depths of 40 meters. Priced at $339, it’s the most advanced among the listed options and best suited for those who want a significant achievement.
This course combines classroom instruction with practical training in the water. You’ll learn about advanced buoyancy control, managing your ascent, and using diving equipment safely at greater depths. The highlight is the opportunity to see Corsica’s deeper marine ecosystems and vibrant landscapes. Although there are no reviews yet, the detailed curriculum suggests it’s a thorough and rewarding experience. It’s ideal for confident beginners who want to push their limits and earn a certification that’s respected worldwide.
Bottom Line: Designed for adventurous beginners, this course provides the skills and certification to dive safely at impressive depths across the globe.
$339 per person
How to Choose Your Calvi Scuba Experience
When selecting a scuba experience in Calvi, consider your budget, time availability, and diving goals. For a relaxed, risk-free introduction perfect for families or nervous first-timers, the Introduction to Diving is hard to beat.
If you’re serious about earning certification, the PE12 course offers a manageable step into more advanced diving, while the PE20 and PE40 courses suit those committed to developing skills and diving deeper.
Budget travelers might prefer shorter experiences, while diving enthusiasts seeking certification should look at the more comprehensive courses. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure a spot with small classes and experienced guides.
Final Thoughts
Calvi’s waters are a true haven for anyone interested in exploring underwater life. For those just starting out, the Introduction to Diving provides a safe, enjoyable introduction, while the certification courses like PE12, PE20, and PE40 offer pathways to more advanced skills and independence.
If you’re traveling with family or kids, the beginner experiences are particularly suited — they combine safety, fun, and the chance to see Corsica’s marine beauty up close. For the more seasoned or ambitious, the certification courses provide a structured way to develop your skills and unlock deeper underwater adventures.
Whatever your experience level, Calvi’s diving options are diverse enough to match your interests. Be sure to book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy discovering the underwater treasures of this Corsican paradise.