Scuba Diving on Catalina Island | 2 tanks, 2 spots

Exploring the Underwater World of Catalina Island with a 2-Tank Scuba Tour

When we think of Catalina Island near Punta Cana, most of us picture pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. But for those with a passion for underwater exploration, this small-group scuba tour promises two exciting dives at some of the region’s best spots. For $150 per person, you’ll enjoy about eight hours of adventure, complete with hotel pickup, top-quality equipment, and a delicious lunch with drinks.

What we especially like about this tour is its blend of adventure and comfort. The fact that all scuba gear is provided means you won’t have to worry about lugging or renting equipment. Plus, having a certified instructor with you the entire time offers peace of mind, especially for those who are newer to diving or prefer the reassurance of guided exploration. Another perk is the beachside lunch and open bar—a perfect way to unwind after a couple of satisfying dives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour requires a diving license—you’ll need to be certified to participate. Also, if you’re staying in certain areas like Cap Cana or Verón, there’s an extra $25 fee for pickup, which is worth considering for the convenience it provides. This experience is best suited for adventurers with some diving experience who want a well-organized, enjoyable day on the water.

Key Points

• Two Dives in One Day: Explore the shipwrecks and coral gardens of Catalina Island.
• All Equipment Included: No need to bring your gear; everything is provided.
• Convenient Pickup & Dropoff: Available from most areas for a small additional fee.
• Family Friendly & Suitable for Certified Divers: Requires a diving license.
• Lunch & Drinks: Enjoy a deli-style lunch with an open bar on the beach.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 20 travelers for a more personalized feel.

A Closer Look at the Catalina Island Scuba Experience

If you’re dreaming of underwater adventures in the Caribbean, this tour offers a solid way to see Catalina’s marine life and wrecks while enjoying the comforts of a guided trip. We loved the way this tour balances adventure and relaxation, something that many travelers seek but often find hard to come by.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day begins early, with hotel pickup around 7:30 am — a good time to ensure you beat the crowds and get your day started efficiently. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, the journey to Catalina Island is smooth and comfortable, setting the tone for a worry-free adventure.

The first stop is El Acuario, or The Aquarium, a coral reef just 3 to 6 meters deep. Here, you’ll see colorful corals and a variety of fish that make every moment in the water lively and vibrant. This shallow dive is perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike, providing views of the reef’s intricate ecosystem without being too demanding physically.

The second stop is La Pared (The Wall), a dramatic underwater cliff dropping to 25 meters (about 82 feet). Here, your group will descend with your instructor, exploring the shipwrecks, rock formations, and marine life that inhabit this more profound environment. For those with PADI certification, the depth extends to 25 meters, but non-certified divers will be limited to 12 meters, ensuring safety and compliance.

What Makes These Spots Special?

• El Acuario offers a colorful, shallow environment, ideal for taking photos and observing marine life close-up without the need for advanced skills.
• La Pared provides a more dramatic landscape with an impressive undersea wall. It’s an opportunity to see wrecks and marine biodiversity that you won’t find at typical beaches.

Post-Dive Relaxation on the Beach

After your dives, you’ll head to a beach on Catalina Island. There, loungers and a buffet-style lunch await, along with alcoholic beverages. As one reviewer said, “Great value for money,” and the lunch options are a highlight, though some have suggested minor improvements in the menu. Regardless, the chance to cool off in the clear waters and enjoy the scenic surroundings makes this a perfect way to wind down.

Equipment & Guidance

All scuba gear is provided, which means you can focus on enjoying your dives rather than rummaging through equipment rentals. Your certified diving instructor will be with you throughout, guiding your descent and ensuring safety. This full supervision is especially reassuring if you’re new to scuba or want to explore without stress.

Group Size & Transportation

With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour maintains a personalized atmosphere. The air-conditioned vehicle is comfortable for the journey, and the pickup service is a huge convenience if you’re staying in central Punta Cana or nearby areas.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from previous travelers paints a generally positive picture. One review, by Matthew in March 2025, said, “Book this now! Another great experience in Punta Cana. Great value for money.” The only common suggestion was that the lunch could be improved, but overall, the experience’s value was well appreciated. The inclusion of lunch and drinks is a big plus, making the day feel complete without extra costs.

Authentic Highlights

Travelers appreciated the small group size, which felt more intimate and personalized. The guidance from the instructor was also widely praised, ensuring everyone felt comfortable, whether they were seasoned divers or trying it for the first time with certification.

Practical Details & Tips for Travelers

• Price: At $150, this tour offers good value for a full day of guided diving, equipment, lunch, and transport.
• Duration: Around 8 hours — plan for a full-day commitment.
• Requirements: You must have a diving license to participate; this isn’t suitable for beginners without certification.
• Pickup: Included from most areas, but Cap Cana and Verón require an extra $25.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 people for a more personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits certified divers looking for a day of exploring famous underwater sites with professional guidance. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a well-organized trip with included amenities like lunch and drinks. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic marine environments and doesn’t mind a full-day outing, this tour is a solid choice.

However, if you are not certified or prefer a more relaxed, shallow snorkeling experience, you might want to look elsewhere. Plus, those staying outside the pickup zones should consider the extra fee, but many find the convenience worth it.

The Sum Up: Is This Dive Tour Worth It?

For travelers with diving certification seeking an engaging day on the water, this tour offers value, guidance, and scenic spots that showcase Catalina Island’s underwater beauty. The two-tank format means you get more than just a taste — you’ll explore wrecks and reefs, making the most of your day. The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds to the overall value, making it a relaxing finish after your underwater adventures.

While some might wish for more diverse food options, most agree that the experience itself is memorable and well-organized. The small group size and professional instruction make it suitable for those who want to feel safe and cared for while exploring the Caribbean’s vibrant marine life.

If you’re certified, craving underwater exploration, and want a combination of adventure and comfort, this tour deserves a spot on your Punta Cana itinerary. It’s a reliable, enjoyable way to experience the ocean’s wonders with good company and excellent guidance.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Catalina Island Scuba Tour

Do I need a diving license to join?
Yes, you must be certified to participate in this tour. It’s designed for licensed divers, and proof of certification is required.

What if I don’t want to do the full depth?
Non-certified divers will be limited to shallower depths — around 12 meters — at La Pared. The tour is tailored to accommodate different comfort levels within safety limits.

Is the gear provided?
Absolutely, all scuba equipment is included, so you don’t need to bring or rent your own. This makes packing much easier.

Can I take photos underwater?
The tour doesn’t include photography services, and you’ll need your own waterproof camera if you want to capture the experience.

What about transportation?
Pickup is offered from most areas, with an additional $25 fee from Cap Cana and Verón. The trip includes comfortable, air-conditioned transport.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 8 hours, with the main activities being two dives, lunch, and beach relaxation. It’s a full-day adventure.

What’s included in the lunch?
A deli-style lunch and alcoholic drinks are provided. While some travelers have suggested improvements, most enjoy the meal as a fitting end to their day.

Final Thoughts

This Catalina Island scuba tour offers a balance of adventure, comfort, and value, especially for those with a diving certification. The two dives at iconic locations, combined with lunch and transport, make it a worthwhile addition to your Punta Cana vacation. Expect a personalized group experience, guided by professional instructors, and get ready to see some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful underwater sights.

For anyone eager for marine exploration and wanting a well-organized, safe environment, this is a reliable choice that will leave you with lasting memories of your Caribbean adventure.