Lagos, Portugal, stands out as a top spot for scuba diving thanks to its clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and abundant marine life. Whether you’re new to diving or looking to challenge yourself, Lagos offers options that fit all levels. We particularly like the First Scuba Dive in the Ocean with Instructor for its gentle approach, stunning underwater scenery, and small group setting. It’s perfect if you’re dreaming of breathing underwater for the first time, especially with the safety and guidance of an experienced instructor.
For those wanting a more comprehensive beginner experience, the Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners combines pool lessons with an ocean dive, making it ideal for first-timers eager to get a taste of real underwater exploration. Below, we’ve broken down the most popular tours, highlighting what makes each one special.
1. Lagos: First Scuba Dive in the Ocean with Instructor
This introductory scuba experience is designed for beginners who want to try diving in the ocean for the first time. It lasts about 2 hours, starting with a 30-minute safety briefing in Lagos, followed by a quick 10-minute speedboat ride to the dive site. The actual diving session lasts around an hour, during which you’ll explore underwater rock formations and marine life alongside an instructor who speaks English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on small group sizes—limited to 8 participants, meaning more personalized attention. This tour is ideal if you’re nervous about your first ocean dive but eager for an authentic experience. You’ll need to bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen; note that children under 10, pregnant women, and non-swimmers are not suitable candidates.
Guests often comment on the stunning underwater scenery and the thrill of the initial breath-hold in open water. The price isn’t listed here, but the value lies in the hands-on approach and the chance to challenge yourself with a guided ocean dive.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers wanting a safe, small-group adventure with professional guidance. Book early, as spots fill quickly.
2. Lagos: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners
For around $159 per person, this beginners’ scuba experience offers a comprehensive introduction to the underwater world of Lagos. It combines a pool lesson, where you’ll learn basic scuba skills, with a guided dive in the sea. The total session lasts about 3 hours, making it a more in-depth option for those curious about diving but without prior experience.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on education and safety. The instructor, with extensive experience, will guide you through the basics—such as breathing techniques, mask clearing, and buoyancy control—before heading into the ocean. Guests have praised the professional instruction and the opportunity to see marine life firsthand, which makes it a great choice for beginners.
While reviews are generally positive, some mention the slightly longer duration and the need for decent fitness. It’s especially suitable if you want to try diving in a controlled setting first before committing to a full certification.
Bottom Line: This tour strikes a balance between education and adventure, perfect for beginners wanting a full intro experience. It offers good value for the level of training provided.
3. Other Lagos Diving Tours (brief overview)
While the above experiences are ideal for most newcomers, Lagos also offers more specialized diving options, including guided excursions for certified divers, night dives, and boat trips to more remote sites. Check local operators for tailored trips if you’re experienced or seeking particular marine encounters.
How to Choose the Right Diving Experience in Lagos
If you’re trying to decide between these options, consider your fitness level, comfort in open water, and interest in learning. The First Scuba Dive with Instructor is perfect if you want to test the waters without much prior knowledge. The Beginners’ Experience is better if you’re eager to learn the basics in a structured way.
Timing and weather are crucial—dive conditions in Lagos are best from May to October, with summer months offering calmer seas. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Tips and Recommendations
Lagos Portugal offers a diverse range of scuba diving experiences, from simple first-timer introductions to more detailed beginner courses. For travelers with limited time, the quick ocean intro dive offers a memorable taste of underwater exploration. If you’re serious about learning or trying more advanced dives, the beginner course with pool and sea sessions is worth the extra time and money.
For families or those with limited mobility, check each operator’s restrictions in advance, but most tours are designed with safety and inclusivity in mind. If you’re excited to explore the underwater world, remember that booking early increases your chances of securing a spot—especially in summer.
Whether you want the thrill of your first ocean breath-hold or deepen your skills, Lagos’s diving tours deliver authentic experiences with professional guides and beautiful surroundings. Dive in early and enjoy discovering one of Portugal’s best coastal treasures.