Take your Open Water certification to the next level with five specialty dives around the Catalina Islands. Expect deep and navigation training, boat transfers from Tamarindo, and hands-on instruction in lively Pacific reef habitats.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Sunlight slices the Pacific surface as the dive boat eases away from Tamarindo’s harbor; salt air and engine thrum set the pace while the shoreline shrinks into a band of palms and red earth. Within an hour you’ll be into blue water, descending toward rock pinnacles where current lines and reef ledges draw life in. This Advanced Open Water course focuses on five specialty dives—always including Deep and Navigation—and is staged from boat departures that serve the Catalina Islands and nearby reef systems.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days (course format) — individual boat days ~5 hours
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable swimming, able to carry gear and manage ladder/steps on a boat; decent cardiovascular fitness for deeper dives.
Wildlife
History
The Guanacaste shoreline developed from small fishing and agricultural communities; sport diving expanded here in the late 20th century as boats and guides mapped the offshore pinnacles.
Conservation
Local operators emphasize reef‑safe practices—avoid touching coral, use reef‑safe sunscreen, and respect marine park rules to protect fragile habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Advanced Open Water Dive Certification in Tamarindo today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring your certification card and logbook
Operators require proof of Open Water certification and will log your specialty dives—bring originals or digital copies.
Watch the no-fly window
Avoid flying within 18 hours after your last dive to reduce decompression risk—plan travel accordingly.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and comply with local conservation practices.
Expect boat transfers and swell
Wear non-slip shoes for boarding and secure loose gear; sea conditions can change quickly off the islands.
Personal mask and snorkel
A well-fitting mask improves comfort and reduces fogging during repeated dives.
Dive computer
Essential for tracking depths, no-deco limits and repetitive-dive planning during a multi-dive course.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin in strong equatorial sun while minimizing harm to coral.
summer
Certified dive logbook & certification card
Required to prove prerequisites and to record your Advanced Open Water specialties.