Try Scuba Diving at Padang Bai

Looking to dip your toes into the world of scuba diving without the long-term commitment? This Try Scuba Diving tour at Padangbai offers just that — a chance for absolute beginners to breathe underwater and see Bali’s colorful marine life firsthand, all within an 8-hour day. For around $105 per person, you get a full package that includes pickups from your Bali hotel, all necessary equipment, boat transfers, lunch, and experienced guides.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines simplicity and safety. The small group size (just two divers per guide) ensures personalized attention and minimizes any feeling of being overwhelmed. Plus, the proximity to Padangbai’s vibrant coral reefs means you’re likely to see a variety of marine creatures and stunning underwater scenery right from the start.

A possible consideration is that this experience is geared specifically toward beginners—so if you’re an experienced diver, this might not be the adventure you’re after. Also, the tour’s timing, starting early at 7 AM, means an early wake-up, but it does set you up for a full, rewarding day of exploration.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers curious about the ocean, families with older children (minimum age 10), or anyone wanting a confidence-building introduction to scuba diving in a safe environment.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Gear, boat transfers, lunch, and safety equipment included.
• Small Groups for Safety: Only two divers per guide, ideal for comfort and personalized attention.
• Flexible Pickup: From various Bali locations, making it easy to plan your day.
• Ideal for Beginners: No certification or prior experience needed.
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea life await.
• Good Value: For just over $100, you get two guided dives, transport, and a full day of fun.

An Honest Look at the Try Scuba Diving Tour at Padang Bai

If you’re visiting Bali and craving a taste of what the underwater world has to offer, this Try Scuba Diving at Padangbai is a smart choice. It’s designed for people with no previous experience who want to see marine life up close, breathe underwater, and gain a sense of confidence in the water. Let’s explore what makes this adventure worth considering—and what you might want to keep in mind.

The Itinerary: A Well-Organized Day from Start to Finish

Your day begins early — with hotel pickups starting at 7:00 AM. The tour company uses shuttle buses that pick up guests from locations across Bali, including Sanur, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua. We appreciated how the transportation is included, sparing you the hassle of organizing your own transfer, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Bali’s busy roads.

By 7:30 AM, you’ll be preparing for the day at the Bali Diving center in Sanur. Here, the staff is friendly and efficient, ready to assist you with equipment fitting and safety briefings. They also provide a complimentary morning tea or coffee — a small but thoughtful touch that helps settle those pre-dive nerves.

At around 8:15 AM, the group departs for Padangbai, about an hour’s drive away. The scenic journey gives you a preview of Bali’s lush landscapes, and it’s an excellent opportunity to meet your guides and fellow travelers.

Once at Padangbai, you’ll board a boat for your two guided dives scheduled around 9:00 AM. The boat transfer itself is smooth, with all gear provided, including mask, fins, snorkel, and wetsuit if needed. The small group size (only two divers per guide) is a major plus, allowing a more relaxed experience and personalized attention.

After your underwater adventures, it’s time for lunch at 1:00 PM. The meal is included, with options for vegetarians and vegans if specified when booking. We liked that the lunch isn’t just a quick sandwich—it’s a proper meal that helps recharge you after your underwater exploration.

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Bali Diving around 2:00 PM, then be shuttled back to your hotel by 3:00 PM. The timing allows for a full, enriching day without feeling rushed.

What You Can Expect Underwater

The highlight of this experience is, of course, the underwater world. Padangbai is known for its vibrant coral and strange and wonderful marine creatures. While some might hope for elusive big fish or manta rays, most reviews highlight the colorful reefs and abundant marine life as the main draw.

The two dives are from the boat, and divers are encouraged to breathe freely underwater — no prior certification needed. For many, the experience of floating in the water, seeing coral and fish for the first time, is a revelation. You’re supported by guides who are friendly, professional, and safety-conscious.

Why Locals and Tourists Love This Experience

One traveler, Anneloes, called the tour “Geweldig”, Dutch for “great,” praising the friendly and knowledgeable staff. She also appreciated the possibility to shower after diving and the delicious lunch. That personal touch, along with the small group safety, makes the experience feel intimate rather than touristy.

The maximum of two divers per guide is a big selling point for those who prefer a more relaxed and controlled environment. It ensures that everyone feels confident, especially newbies.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Bring

For about $105, this package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, diving insurance, boat transfers, equipment, lunch, and water. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, so all necessary gear is provided, and the guides are committed to maintaining small groups for safety’s sake.

However, you’ll need to bring a towel and possibly a change of clothes for after your dives. Sunscreen is recommended, but you might want to skip heavy lotion to avoid polluting the water.

The tour is suitable for those age 10 and up, with a brief health questionnaire to ensure safety. It’s not recommended to dive within 24 hours of flying, so plan accordingly if you have early flights or connecting flights.

The Value of This Tour

Compared to long certification courses or more extensive trips, this “try scuba” experience offers a wonderful snapshot of Bali’s underwater world at a very reasonable price. You get two guided dives, transfers, lunch, and all gear, making it an excellent introduction for beginners.

While the experience is tailored for novices, it also appeals to those who simply want a stress-free, guided snorkel-like adventure with expert supervision and small groups—something rare and valuable in busy tourist spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for beginners curious about diving, families with older children (minimum age 10), or travelers who want to try out scuba without committing to a full course. It’s particularly ideal if you value personalized attention and small groups.

If you’re looking for a stunning underwater scenery with vibrant coral and friendly guides, and don’t mind an early start, this tour offers fantastic value.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting to see Bali’s marine life up close without the complexity of certification, this Try Scuba Diving at Padangbai hits the mark. It combines safety, convenience, and authentic underwater views, all wrapped into a well-organized day that leaves most travelers feeling excited and inspired.

You’ll appreciate the small group setting and the comprehensive package, which takes care of every detail so you can focus on the experience. And with positive reviews praising friendly staff and good value, it’s clear this tour leaves a lasting impression.

If your goal is to gain confidence in the water and catch a glimpse of Bali’s incredible marine world, this is a solid choice — especially if you prefer a more intimate, guided adventure over large, impersonal tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be certified to participate in this tour?
No, you do not need any prior certification or training. This experience is designed specifically for beginners, with guides providing all the necessary instruction and support.

What is the minimum age to join?
The minimum age is 10 years old, making it suitable for older children and teenagers interested in trying scuba diving for the first time.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, a change of clothes, and perhaps some sunscreen (preferably reef-safe). All diving equipment is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing gear.

Is food included?
Yes, a proper lunch is included in the tour, along with water and hot drinks. The menu caters for vegetarians and vegans if you specify this when booking.

How many divers are in each group?
In this tour, there are only two divers per guide, ensuring safety and personalized attention during your underwater experience.

What if I have a medical condition?
You will need to complete a health questionnaire before diving. Certain conditions like asthma or heart issues may prevent you from participating, so it’s best to consult your doctor if unsure.

When should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least 8 days in advance. The tour sells well, and early booking ensures availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled date, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

Whether you’re an absolute novice or just want a safe, guided glimpse into Bali’s underwater beauty, this Try Scuba Diving experience at Padangbai offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, safety, and authenticity—making it a memorable part of your Bali trip.