Take your first breath underwater off the Algarve coast: a short boat ride, a confined-water skills session, then a guided sea dive to 12 meters over natural reef. This beginner-friendly experience includes gear, bottled water, and an SSI short-term certification.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from a small aluminum boat and the coast of the Algarve slides away: yellow cliffs stand steady while the sea ahead darkens into the reef. The instructor checks your gear, demonstrates a calm hand signal, and the surface hiss of your regulator becomes a steady companion as you descend. At 6–12 meters the reef opens like a living wall—wrasse and small bream weave through rocky outcrops while blades of seagrass sway as if nudging you onward.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition who can swim and climb in/out of a small boat; no prior dive certification required.
Wildlife
History
The Algarve’s coastal economy has long combined fishing, boat-building and maritime trade; many dive sites are adjacent to traditional fishing grounds that shaped local villages.
Conservation
Local operators emphasize low-impact practices—avoid touching reef surfaces, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow your guide to limit disturbance to fish and seagrass.
Reserve your spot on the Try Dives - Discover Scuba Diving in Albufeira today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Know the medical rules
Complete the required health questionnaire honestly—certain heart, lung, or back conditions can disqualify you from diving for safety reasons.
Wear swimwear under light layers
Bring quick-dry shorts and a zip jacket for the boat; wetsuits and regulators are provided but you’ll want a warm top for the surface transit.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before arrival to protect marine life and reduce irritation under a wetsuit.
Plan post-dive logistics
Don’t book flights within 48 hours after diving and allow time to shower and change at the shop after returning from the boat.
Swimwear
Wear under a wetsuit so you’re comfortable during the confined-water and sea dives.
summer
Towel and change of clothes
Useful for drying off and staying warm after the dive when returning to shore.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the local marine environment—apply before arrival.
summer
Light windbreaker or rash guard
Keeps you warm on the boat ride and protects against spray and sun while waiting between sessions.
spring