El Médano, Tenerife : Open Water Diver Course

If you’ve ever dreamed of breathing underwater, exploring vibrant marine life, and earning a globally recognized diving certification, the Open Water Diver Course in Tenerife might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact course, we’ve researched extensively and spoken with travelers who have, and it seems to hit the sweet spot for beginners eager to start their underwater adventures.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the personalized attention offered by small groups—limited to just four participants—means you’ll receive tailored guidance. Second, the inclusion of top-quality equipment and safety insurance provides peace of mind during your learning process. A potential consideration? The whole program is packed into a single day, which is intense but ideal if you’re looking to fit diving into a short trip.

This course suits anyone interested in getting certified to dive safely, particularly those who prefer a practical, hands-on approach in beautiful Tenerife. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an efficient way to start your diving journey without committing to a longer course. However, travelers with respiratory issues, colds, or high blood pressure should take note—this activity isn’t suitable for everyone.

Key Points

• Certified Instructors: Highly trained professionals guide you through every step.
• All Equipment Included: No extra costs for gear, ensuring safety and comfort.
• Small Groups: Limited to 4 participants, providing personalized attention.
• Comprehensive Learning: Combines theory, safety skills, and practical in-water experiences.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Location Convenience: Starts at a central meeting point in Tenerife, with easy transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Course

This course is designed as the first step toward becoming a certified diver, and it covers all the essentials you’d need to start exploring safely. It combines classroom or theoretical training with practical sessions in open water, so you’ll learn dive physics, physiology, planning, safety, and equipment handling.

Theoretical Training: Expect a clear, approachable explanation of how diving works, what your body goes through underwater, and how to plan dives to avoid risks. Good instructors will keep this engaging, even if it’s your first time tackling such material.

Safety Skills and Practice: You’ll learn key safety techniques—like clearing your mask, regulator recovery, and emergency procedures—that are vital to confident diving. These will be practiced in controlled environments before heading out into open water.

Open Water Dives: The heart of the experience is the series of practical dives, usually five or more, at Playa Abades. These trips last around 5.5 hours and are where you’ll apply your knowledge, explore marine life, and build real confidence. Travelers often mention the well-organized, small group setting as a real plus, making the experience more personal and less rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the central meeting point on Av. Príncipes de España, your day begins with a brief introduction and safety briefing. From there, you’ll hop into a van for a short 15-minute ride to Playa Abades, a beach known for its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for beginners to practice.

Why Playa Abades? It’s not the most famous beach in Tenerife, but its relatively sheltered waters are perfect for your initial open water experiences. The consistency in conditions helps reduce anxiety, especially for first-timers. After your dives, you’ll take another short 15-minute van ride back to the start point, wrapping up your day.

The whole schedule is designed to be efficient, packing in theoretical lessons and practical experience in one manageable day. This means you’ll need to be ready for a full, active day—expect to spend around 5.5 hours in the water, plus some time for gear setup and briefings.

The Equipment and Certification

One of the standout features is that all equipment is included—from wetsuits to masks and regulators—so you won’t need to worry about additional costs or lugging gear around. This is especially helpful if you’re new to diving and unsure about what you might need.

You’ll also gain an internationally recognized certification, which opens doors for you to dive in many locations worldwide. The value here is significant—it’s not just a fun experience but a legitimate qualification that boosts your confidence to explore further.

An added plus noted in reviews is the insurance coverage. When you pay for this course, your diving insurance is included for the entire duration, adding another layer of safety.

The Group Size and Instructors

Travelers consistently praise the small group setting, limited to four people. This ensures that your instructor can give personalized feedback and answer all your questions. Many mention that the instructors are highly trained and speak multiple languages—including Spanish, English, and Italian—which helps in making the learning smooth and stress-free.

Having experienced instructors is crucial for beginners, and the reviews reflect satisfaction with their patience and professionalism. One reviewer even noted how a patient instructor helped them overcome initial fears, leading to a genuinely enjoyable experience.

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Costs and Value

At $447 per person, this course is priced competitively given the inclusion of all equipment, insurance, transportation, and certification. When you think about it, you’re not just paying for the practical experience but also gaining a skill that could turn into a lifelong hobby or even a career.

While some might see it as a somewhat intensive day, many feel that the cost is justified by the quality of instruction and the convenience of a fully guided, all-in-one package. Remember, this is designed as a one-day course, making it ideal for travelers who want to get a taste of diving without a long-term commitment.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This course is best suited for those new to diving who want a certification in a short amount of time. It’s perfect if you’re visiting Tenerife and want to combine stunning scenery with your new skill.

Given the small group size and professional guidance, it’s also ideal for those who prefer a more personalized, less commercial experience. It’s not recommended for individuals with respiratory issues, colds, or high blood pressure, given the physical nature of diving.

Final Thoughts

The El Médano Open Water Diver Course offers a practical, well-organized way for beginners to earn their diving certification in Tenerife. You’ll get hands-on experience with qualified instructors in a safe environment, topped with all necessary gear included. The day is intense but rewarding, giving you a strong foundation to explore the underwater world confidently.

If you’re someone who values safety, personalized attention, and the chance to tick off a bucket list item, this course is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting an efficient, comprehensive introduction to diving during a short trip.

For those hesitant about long courses or not yet ready to commit multiple days, this one-day option strikes a good balance of education and practical fun, making it a smart choice for beginners.

FAQ

Is this course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed for those new to diving, with comprehensive instruction and practical experience to build confidence.

How long does the course last?
It’s a full-day activity, generally around 5.5 hours of practical diving, plus theory sessions.

Are all the equipment and insurance included?
Yes, all necessary gear is provided, and diving insurance is included for the entire course.

What languages are the instructors fluent in?
Instructors speak Spanish, English, and Italian, helping to accommodate diverse travelers.

Is transportation to the dive site provided?
Yes, transportation to Playa Abades is included, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, the activity is suitable for adult beginners who meet health criteria.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a full day, and bring a towel and sun protection. Gear is provided, so no need to bring your own.

If you’re craving an adventure that combines learning with the chance to see Tenerife’s marine life, this course is a solid pick. It’s a chance to start your diving journey safely, with expert guidance, and a certificate to show for it—an experience you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: