Try Scuba Diving with Professional Scuba Instructor

Introduction: What’s This Tour All About?

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater or how it feels to float among colorful fish and coral, then this Try Scuba Diving experience in Key Largo might be just what you’re looking for. For $259 per person, you get a full day of introductory scuba instruction, a training pool session, and two guided reef dives, all under the watchful eye of a certified instructor. The tour, operated by Scuba Fun Dive Center, is designed for first-timers and offers a gentle, safe introduction to the underwater world.

What we love about this experience is how approachable it is — small groups mean personalized attention, and the mix of classroom learning and hands-on practice builds confidence quickly. Plus, the chance to explore Pennekamp State Park’s coral reefs with its vibrant marine life is genuinely memorable. The only thing to keep in mind is that transportation to the pool and marina is on you, so planning ahead is key.

This tour suits those who want a stress-free introduction to scuba, especially if you’re nervous about the unknown. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who value professional guidance and want to get a taste of what diving is all about, without committing to certification right away.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners seeking a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving.
• Includes classroom briefing, pool training, and two reef dives.
• Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Flexible scheduling with most bookings made 23 days in advance.
• Memorable marine life with chances to see fish, turtles, and reef sharks.
• No flying or high altitude for 24 hours after the experience, important for safety.

The Full Lowdown on the Try Scuba Diving Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Your day begins early, with a meeting at 99222 Overseas Hwy in Key Largo at 8:00 am. The experience is approximately full-day, wrapping up around 5 pm, so plan your day accordingly. The first part involves a brief classroom session where you’ll learn basic scuba fundamentals — think of it as your underwater crash course. The instructor will explain safety procedures, equipment use, and what to expect underwater. This initial phase is crucial for building confidence before you step into the pool.

Next, you’ll suit up with all necessary scuba gear — your mask, fins, wetsuit, and regulator — which are all included in the price. The pool is your safe playground, where you’ll get familiar with your equipment, practice some skills, and get comfortable breathing underwater. As one reviewer put it, “Scuba Joe is so unbelievably awesome and patient,” which can make all the difference if you’re feeling nervous.

After a well-earned lunch break, the adventure continues with two reef dives in Pennekamp State Park. These are the highlights — exploring coral formations, watching schools of colorful fish, and possibly spotting turtles or reef sharks. Your instructor leads the way, ensuring safety and helping you feel secure in the open water. Expect stunning underwater scenery that makes for incredible photos and memories.

The Training Pool: Building Confidence

This part of the day is all about practice and reassurance. The instructor, often praised for their patience and friendliness, guides you through basic skills like clearing your mask, controlling buoyancy, and sharing air. Many reviews mention how the instructor’s approachable manner — “Scuba Joe is the man!” — helps even the most nervous participants feel at ease.

The pool session is small, typically max 8 travelers, which means you’ll get tailored feedback. We loved how this setup avoids feeling overwhelmed, allowing everyone to progress at their own pace. It’s a great way to gain confidence before venturing into the open water.

The Reef Dives: Exploring Underwater Paradise

Post-lunch, it’s time to hit the boat for your two reef dives. The boat departs from a nearby marina, a short drive from the pool site. The boat ride itself offers a chance to enjoy the gulf breeze and glimpse Key Largo’s beautiful coastline. The reef dives are usually in protected areas where marine life flourishes — expect to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and perhaps reef sharks.

Multiple reviews highlight the stunning views and the friendly guidance from instructors during these dives. One reviewer calls it a “beautiful and fun experience,” noting the helpful boat captain and the overall relaxed atmosphere. These dives are supervised by professionals, which reassures first-timers that safety is the priority.

Practical Tips: What to Prepare For

Since the tour involves swimming and some physical activity, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Participants should be comfortable swimming two laps in a pool without a float. It’s essential to fill out a medical questionnaire — folks with ear infections, sinus issues, or respiratory problems are advised to reconsider, as the tour’s safety protocols are strict.

Transportation to the pool and marina is not included — plan to arrange your own or carpool with others. Also, remember you cannot fly or go to high altitude until 10 am the following day, so schedule accordingly if you’re traveling elsewhere soon after.

Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $259, this experience offers solid value considering it includes all equipment, instructor guidance, and two reef dives. Many reviewers mention it as “totally worth the price” and praise the professional level of instruction. For first-timers, the cost includes safety briefings, equipment, and logistics, which might otherwise be a hassle to organize independently.

The small-group format enhances value too — you get personalized attention and a safe environment, which is often missing in larger, more commercial tours. Plus, the chance to see marine life in a renowned reef makes it a worthwhile adventure for anyone interested in snorkeling, diving, or marine photography.

What Others Say

Multiple five-star reviews rave about Scuba Joe’s patience and the beautiful underwater scenery. One reviewer shared, “the instructor was very people-oriented,” which is exactly what you want when trying something new. Others appreciated how the tour was adaptable — for instance, they rearranged schedules due to weather, demonstrating flexibility.

A common theme is that even first-timers felt comfortable and enjoyed the experience, often planning to continue their diving journey afterward. The small group size and professional guidance keep safety and enjoyment front and center.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for beginners with an interest in trying scuba diving without the commitment of certification. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable swimming and eager to see Key Largo’s reefs with a professional instructor by your side. It’s also good for adventure seekers who want a hassle-free, guided introduction, especially since the small group size means plenty of personal attention.

However, it’s not suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions listed in the requirements, such as ear infections, respiratory issues, or other health concerns. If you’re nervous about being in enclosed spaces or have fears of the water, this might not be the right fit.

The Sum Up: Is It a Good Choice for You?

For anyone curious about what it’s like to breathe underwater or eager to see the vibrant life beneath Key Largo’s waves, this experience offers a safe, friendly, and memorable introduction. With professional guidance and small group sizes, you’ll feel supported every step of the way — whether it’s in the classroom, the pool, or the open reef.

The value for money is solid, especially considering all the gear, instruction, and two dives included. It’s an excellent option for first-time divers or those wanting a test run before pursuing full certification. The stunning coral reefs, friendly guides, and relaxed atmosphere make it a highlight of any trip to Florida’s Keys.

In short, if you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic introduction to scuba, this tour checks all the boxes and is likely to leave you eager for your next underwater adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join this tour?
Yes, you should be comfortable swimming two laps in a pool without a float. This ensures you can handle the basic swimming requirements for safety during the dives.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Most bookings are made on average 23 days in advance, but availability can vary. It’s advisable to book early to secure your preferred date.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all scuba equipment, instructor fees, classroom briefing, pool training, and two reef dives. You’ll need to bring your swimsuit and towel.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, participants must be at least 10 years old. This makes it accessible for families with older children interested in trying scuba.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the entire experience?
From start to finish, expect around 9 hours, including classroom learning, pool training, boat ride, and dives.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included. It’s customary to tip guides if you feel they provided excellent service.

If you’re dreaming of your first underwater experience in Florida’s Keys, this tour offers a friendly, well-organized, and truly memorable way to get your feet wet — or rather, your fins wet.