Gran Canaria: Try Scuba Diving for Beginners

If you’re considering trying out scuba diving for the first time while on Gran Canaria, you’re in good company. This popular tour, offered by Puerto Rico Diving, has earned a stellar 4.9 rating from nearly 300 reviews—a sign that most who try it walk away with a smile and a new hobby. The experience promises a gentle, guided introduction to the underwater world, making it ideal if you’re a bit nervous or just curious about what lies beneath the surface.

What caught our eye about this tour? First, the small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience. Second, the professional guides speak multiple languages and are praised for their helpfulness and patience, making even the most anxious feel at ease. One potential consideration? The tour lasts around 3 hours if you opt for pickup, but if you meet directly at Playa de Amadores, it could be closer to 2 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

This experience suits those who want a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving, especially first-timers or those who prefer a controlled environment. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the marine sights without diving deep or committing to a full certification right away. Now, let’s break down all the details so you can decide if this is the right fit for your trip.

Key Points

• Beginners Welcome: No prior experience needed; professional instructors guide every step.
• Flexible Options: Choose a pickup service or meet at Playa de Amadores for around 2 hours of underwater fun.
• All-Inclusive Price: For $101, you get equipment, insurance, and expert guidance, making it quite good value.
• Small Groups: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Marine Wildlife: Expect to see a variety of colorful fish, and possibly rays or octopus, as reported by many happy divers.
• Languages Offered: Guides speak English, Spanish, Italian, and French, making communication easy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from this Experience

Our review is based on the detailed itinerary and plentiful positive reviews, so here’s what you can look forward to if you sign up for this Try Scuba Diving adventure.

Pickup and Arrival

The tour begins with hotel pickup from eight southern coastal towns, including Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, Patalavaca, and others. You’ll be collected between 8:15-9:00 AM or 11:15-12:00 PM, depending on your chosen slot. The transportation is a good perk, saving you the hassle of finding your way to Playa de Amadores. If you prefer to meet us directly, you can do so at the beach, but keep in mind that the total experience will be shorter—about 2 hours.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Once you arrive, there’s a safety briefing that lasts roughly 45 minutes. This is where the instructors explain what to expect, how to breathe underwater, and safety procedures. Many reviews highlight how thorough and reassuring the guides are, which is essential for first-timers. Some mention their nerves initially, but the guides’ patience and professionalism help them relax. For example, one reviewer said, “Our guide was very helpful and patient. It was clear he was very knowledgeable and experienced, but his kindness was what really stood out.”

Entry into the Water

After the briefing, you’ll don the provided equipment—mask, fins, and snorkel—and head into the crystal-clear waters from the beach. Here, you’ll get to practice breathing techniques at your own pace in a calm environment. This step is key because it helps you build confidence before the guided exploration.

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The Guided Underwater Tour

Once you’re comfortable, the instructor guides you on a shallow underwater route, giving you the chance to see Gran Canaria’s marine life up close. Many reviews mention seeing a variety of fish, and some lucky divers have spotted rays and octopus. The guides are attentive, making sure everyone is safe and enjoying the sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Duration and Experience

If you choose the pickup option, expect the whole process to last about 3 hours, including transfers and briefing. Meeting directly at Playa de Amadores cuts down on travel time—meaning approximately 2 hours of actual diving and instruction. Many participants find this duration perfect for a first experience, just enough to get a taste without feeling exhausted.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Pickup from your accommodation: Select from 8 possible locations, including Maspalomas and Puerto Rico.
• Transport to Playa de Amadores: About a 30-minute ride, giving you a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery.
• Safety briefing: A comprehensive session with a friendly instructor explaining what will happen and addressing any worries.
• Underwater exploration: You’ll spend roughly an hour in the water, guided by experienced instructors, exploring the habitat of colorful fish and marine life.
• Drop-off: After the activity, transportation returns you to your hotel or the original meeting point.

Throughout the process, the focus is on safety, confidence-building, and enjoyment. Many reviews emphasize the helpfulness and patience of the guides, which makes a big difference when you’re trying something new.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $101 per person covers most essentials, including hotel pickup and drop-off, diving equipment, and diving accident insurance. If you’re interested in capturing your experience, you can rent a GoPro for an extra $15, which many reviewers recommend because they loved sharing their underwater photos afterward.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour does not include the GoPro rental or any additional underwater photography services. Also, if you’re not staying in the southern towns of the island, you’ll need to meet at Playa de Amadores yourself.

Suitability and Considerations

While the experience is mainly for beginners and experienced divers alike, certain health conditions are noted as restrictions, including pregnancy, back or heart problems, respiratory issues, or if you’re under 10 years old. The activity provider also emphasizes that you should not be intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

All you will need to complete a medical questionnaire beforehand, and in some cases, a doctor’s permission might be required. Divers are advised to wait 12 hours between diving and flying for a single dive, or 18 hours if doing multiple dives, to ensure safety.

Why People Love This Tour

Looking at the reviews, the most praised aspects are definitely the knowledgeable and friendly guides and the stunning marine sights. Many mention feeling safe and well taken care of, even if it’s their first time underwater. The small group size also contributes to a more personalized experience, and the overall organization seems to earn high praise, with many saying it’s well worth the price.

For instance, one diver said, “Big thank you to Adriana. She was patient when I was nervous about learning to breathe underwater and kept me calm.” Others loved seeing different kinds of fish and sometimes rays, making it more than just a photo opportunity but a genuine encounter with marine life.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal if you’re new to diving but eager to try something adventurous and different during your trip. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a controlled, safe environment with professional instructors by their side. If you’re traveling with someone who is a bit nervous or uncertain, the patience of the guides can make all the difference.

However, if you have serious health issues or if you’re under 10, this might not be suitable. The activity’s duration and physical demands are manageable for most, but always check the medical requirements beforehand.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a low-pressure, beginner-friendly way to experience Gran Canaria’s underwater beauty, this tour offers a solid balance of professionalism, safety, and fun. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the guides are, making first-time divers feel comfortable and confident.

The price reflects the comprehensive experience—transport, equipment, insurance, and expert guidance—making it good value for those wanting a memorable introduction without committing to a full course. Plus, the chance to see colorful fish and perhaps even rays or octopus makes it quite special.

While not the longest activity on the island, it packs enough memorable moments to make it worth considering. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just curious about the underwater world, this experience is likely to leave you with stories to tell and perhaps a new hobby starting right there in Gran Canaria.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, this tour is designed specifically for beginners. No prior experience is needed, and the guides are experienced in helping first-timers feel comfortable underwater.

How long does the activity last?
If you opt for the pickup service, expect about 3 hours from hotel to hotel, including transfers and briefing. Meeting directly at Playa de Amadores shortens this to around 2 hours of actual water time.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. You’ll also want to wear or bring sun protection and any personal items for after the activity.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, the activity provider requires a medical questionnaire to be completed. Conditions like asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, high blood pressure, or recent surgeries may need a doctor’s permission.

Can I take photos or videos?
Yes, you can rent a GoPro for $15 if you want underwater photos or videos. Many reviewers enjoyed sharing their clips afterward.

What is included in the price?
The $101 fee covers pickup and drop-off, diving equipment, and insurance. Additional extras like GoPro rental are optional.

Is this activity suitable for children?
The minimum age is 10 years old, so it’s not suitable for younger children. It’s best suited for teens and adults who are comfortable in water.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized introduction to underwater adventures in Gran Canaria, this tour ticks all the boxes. With excellent guides, stunning marine life, and flexible options, it’s a great way to add something unforgettable to your holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: