Puerto del Carmen: Try Scuba Diving from the beach

Planning a first-time underwater adventure in Lanzarote? This Try Scuba Diving experience in Puerto del Carmen offers a relaxed, safe, and visually stunning way to get a taste of scuba diving. For just $113 per person, you’ll spend about two hours at Playa Chica, a spot often called the “little aquarium” due to its vibrant marine life. The tour is designed for beginners, with small group sizes and personalized attention, making it ideal if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater or encounter colorful fish face-to-face.

Two things really stand out about this tour: First, the experience of qualified instructors who focus on safety and making sure everyone feels comfortable—no rushing here. Second, the stunning underwater scenery filled with tropical fish, rays, and even octopuses—what we like to think of as a mini oceanic zoo. One possible consideration? It’s a short tour, so if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit quick. However, it’s perfect for a first try or for travelers short on time who still want an authentic taste of Lanzarote’s marine wonderland.

If you’re someone who loves learning new skills in a relaxed environment, appreciates natural beauty, and enjoys a personal touch, this activity will suit you well. It’s particularly ideal for those who want a safe introduction to scuba diving without the need for prior certification.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small groups limit to 4 participants, ensuring attentive guidance.
• Stunning Marine Life: Expect to see coral reefs, tropical fish, rays, octopuses, and more.
• Safety First: Experienced instructors focus on safety and comfort, making it ideal for beginners.
• Flexible & Convenient: Book now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Location Perks: Playa Chica is a prime diving spot, known for clear water and diverse marine habitats.
• Limited Age & Medical Restrictions: Suitable for those over 10 and in good health, with medical check requirements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Try Scuba Experience

This tour is designed specifically for first-timers. You’ll start with a briefing—an easy-to-understand safety overview that takes about 30 minutes. Here, your instructor will explain basic scuba skills, safety procedures, and what to expect underwater. Expect a friendly, relaxed tone from your guide, who will help you get comfortable with the equipment and the idea of breathing underwater.

After the briefing, it’s time for the shallow water session. This part lasts around 75 minutes and takes place in Playa Chica, which we affectionately call “our little aquarium.” There, you’ll practice a few essential skills—like equalizing your ears and clearing your mask—while staying in shallow water to build confidence. The calm, clear waters of Playa Chica (visibility of 15-40 meters) make it easier to focus on your surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.

Once you feel ready, your instructor will take you into the open water, where you’ll explore the reef at a maximum depth of 12 meters. We loved the way the instructors emphasize safety and patience—nothing feels rushed. Expect to see schools of small fish, groupers, barracudas, rays, and perhaps even an octopus or a cuttlefish. The marine life here is truly impressive for a beginner’s outing, and the underwater scenery is vibrant and lively.

Throughout the dive, your instructor will be nearby, offering tips and reassurance. The focus is on enjoyment and discovery, with the entire experience designed to make you feel safe and relaxed. This isn’t just a snippet of underwater sightseeing; it’s a genuine chance to see Lanzarote’s marine environment in a friendly and manageable way.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting at Playa Chica: You’ll be greeted by the local team, who are easy to spot—look for blue IKEA bags near the last bench on the beach, especially if walking from the restaurant towards the sandy parking. After a quick check-in, the safety briefing begins, where your guides explain what you’ll do and answer any questions. It’s a good time to voice any concerns or medical considerations.

Safety Briefing: Lasting about 30 minutes, this session covers basic safety tips, equipment familiarization, and how to communicate underwater. The guides excel at keeping things light and approachable, which helps lessen first-time nerves.

Practice in Shallow Water: Post-briefing, you’ll don your gear and practice essential skills in shallow water. This part takes around 75 minutes and is your chance to get comfortable with breathing through a regulator, equalizing, and moving around with fins. The small group size guarantees personalized attention during this phase.

Open Water Dive: Once ready, you’ll set out into the open water. The dive lasts roughly 75 minutes, covering the reef and exploring the abundant marine life. Expect to see a variety of fish, coral, and possibly some larger creatures like groupers or rays, depending on conditions.

End of the Experience: After surfacing, you’ll return to the meeting point, where water, cookies, and a sense of accomplishment await. The entire experience is framed as fun, safe, and accessible, perfect for those new to scuba.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Travelers

This experience is ideal for beginners, especially those who don’t want to commit to full certification right away but are curious about underwater exploration. The small group setting ensures personalized care, which is important for first-timers or those with nerves. The location at Playa Chica offers excellent visibility and a variety of marine life, making it a visually rewarding first taste of scuba diving.

Travelers who appreciate experienced guides and clear instructions will find this tour reassuring. The focus on safety and patience means you can truly relax and enjoy the moment. It’s also a good option for families or couples looking to share a unique adventure without it feeling overwhelming.

However, if you’re someone with pre-existing medical conditions or health issues, it’s worth noting that participants need to be medically fit for diving, and a health questionnaire will be required. This is standard safety protocol but something to keep in mind if you have concerns.

The Value of This Experience

For $113, you get an introductory dive, equipment, insurance, and guidance from a certified PADI instructor. While it’s not a full certification, it’s enough to give you a genuine sense of what scuba is about. Many travelers mention that the personalized guidance and beautiful marine scenery make this a worthwhile investment. The inclusion of water and cookies adds a thoughtful touch, keeping your energy up for the adventure.

This tour’s flexibility—with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and pay later—fits well with travel planning needs. It’s unhurried and intimate, often with just four participants, which enhances the overall quality of the experience.

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Final Thoughts: Is It For You?

If you’re a curious traveler eager to dip your toes into underwater exploration without diving certification, this is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for those who want a safe, guided, and visually stunning introduction to scuba diving in a location renowned for its marine diversity.

Travelers who love authentic landscapes, personalized service, and small-group adventures will find this experience both enjoyable and memorable. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo explorers looking to add a unique activity to their Lanzarote trip.

On the flip side, if you’re after a full-day adventure or have medical conditions that preclude diving, you might need to look elsewhere. But for a short, safe, and beautiful first encounter with the underwater world, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed specifically for those new to scuba diving, with a thorough briefing and practice in shallow water before heading into open water.

What is the maximum depth for the dive?
The maximum depth is around 12 meters, perfect for beginners and for exploring the reef, marine life, and coral formations.

How long does the whole experience last?
The activity lasts around 2 hours, including briefing, practice, and the dive itself.

Are diving equipment and insurance included?
Yes, all necessary equipment and dive insurance are included in the price.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, and beachwear. Towel and swimwear are not provided.

Are there any medical restrictions?
Yes, participants need to be medically fit for diving and will complete a health questionnaire. Certain pre-existing conditions might prevent participation.

Is the activity suitable for children?
It’s only suitable for ages 10 and up, provided they meet health requirements.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and French.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you should plan to meet at Playa Chica.

To sum it up, this Try Scuba Diving tour in Puerto del Carmen offers a genuine and manageable introduction to the underwater world of Lanzarote. With caring instructors, vibrant marine life, and the convenience of a small group, it’s an activity that promises unforgettable memories—perfect for those new to diving or seeking a safe, scenic adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience balances safety, fun, and discovery in a way that makes it a worthwhile addition to your Lanzarote itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: