Setubal District offers some of Portugal’s best scuba diving experiences thanks to its clear waters, diverse marine life, and proximity to Lisbon. While the region is famous for its stunning coastlines and natural parks, its underwater world is equally inviting. Among the options, we particularly like the Try Scuba Diving in Arrabida Natural Park for its combination of professional instruction and picturesque scenery. This tour provides a chance to learn the basics in a small group and explore waters up to 10 meters deep, all while capturing photos of your underwater adventure. It’s perfect for beginners eager to dip their toes into diving without a big commitment.
If you’re interested in combining environmental awareness with your underwater exploration, the Lisbon Eco-Try Dive – Diving Baptism is another excellent choice. It emphasizes ocean ecology and includes a cleanup component, making it ideal for those who want their hobby to have a positive impact. Both experiences are about three hours long and rated highly, so you’ll come away with good memories and new knowledge.
Below, we’ve compiled two standout tours that highlight different aspects of scuba diving in Setubal District. Whether you’re a complete novice or eco-conscious traveler, this guide will help you find the perfect underwater experience.
1. Try Scuba Diving in Arrabida Natural Park (Near Lisbon) with pictures
This introductory scuba experience is designed for beginners curious about the underwater world without the full commitment of certification. The tour includes all necessary equipment and instruction from a certified instructor, making it accessible even if you’ve never been underwater before. The setting — Arrabida Natural Park — adds a special touch, with its crystal-clear waters and rocky formations providing excellent visibility and a striking backdrop.
At about 3 hours long, this tour lets you explore up to 10 meters (33 feet) underwater, where you’ll see a variety of marine life. The small group setup means more personalized attention, and you can choose between morning or afternoon sessions. What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to receive photos from your dive sent directly to your email, making it easy to relive your underwater moments.
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and professional staff, with many noting they felt well-guided and safe throughout the experience. One reviewer said, “We had a great time with our guides who were extremely patient and helpful.” The main downside is that some wish they had received the photos promised, but overall, this is a top-rated, value-packed intro for those new to diving.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners who want a memorable, guided first taste of scuba with beautiful scenery and the chance to capture underwater photos.
2. Lisbon Eco-Try Dive – Diving Baptism
This eco-aware diving experience goes beyond just exploring the seabed. It starts with a session on ocean ecology, emphasizing environmental preservation, which many travelers appreciate. The tour includes two dives: the first is for adaptation, allowing you to get comfortable with the equipment, while the second focuses on exploration and includes a cleanup activity—picking up plastic or garbage encountered underwater.
The goal is to teach basic diving techniques and safety procedures, but also to sensitize participants to the importance of protecting our oceans. The experience lasts around three hours, and the reviews speak to its memorable and meaningful nature, with one saying, “It was an amazing and unforgettable experience with friendly people.”
This tour is especially suited for eco-conscious travelers who want to contribute positively during their trip. The focus on environmental education and cleanup makes it stand out from typical diving experiences. As it’s rated 5/5 based on 13 reviews, it offers good value and a unique perspective on diving in Setubal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in marine ecology and a more environmentally friendly approach to discovering the underwater world.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these two scuba experiences, consider your priorities. If you’re new to diving and eager for a straightforward, picture-ready adventure that focuses on fun and learning, the Try Scuba Diving in Arrabida Natural Park is a solid choice. It offers all the basics, friendly guides, and excellent visibility.
On the other hand, if you’re passionate about environmental causes and want your underwater activity to include a meaningful contribution, the Lisbon Eco-Try Dive provides both education and a chance to help clean the ocean. Its focus on ecological awareness makes it ideal for travelers who want purpose alongside adventure.
Budget-wise, both tours are fairly comparable, with prices around $115–$140 per person, but the eco-tour’s added environmental component gives it a slight edge for those looking to make a difference. Timing-wise, booking early is advised, especially in summer months when demand peaks. Both tours are suitable for beginners, but the eco-version’s emphasis on safety and education might appeal more to conscious travelers.
Final Thoughts
Setubal District’s underwater options range from beginner-friendly adventures to eco-conscious missions. For a relaxed introduction to scuba diving amid stunning scenery, the Try Scuba Diving in Arrabida Natural Park delivers a memorable first experience. If your heart is in protecting the oceans while exploring them, then the Lisbon Eco-Try Dive offers a meaningful, environmentally friendly twist.
Both tours offer great value and are highly rated. Think about your interests—whether it’s just the thrill of underwater exploration or blending adventure with conservation—and pick the one that best suits your travel style. Remember to book ahead, especially in peak season, and prepare for a safe, exciting foray into Portugal’s marine depths.
