Is this a certification course?

No. This is an introductory experience to try scuba safely; it does not grant a certification.

What is the maximum depth?

Guided dives go to a maximum depth of nine metres, ideal for beginner comfort.

No. All Scuba Discovery dives are shore-entry; you walk into the water from the beach or shoreline.

What is the minimum age?

Minimum age is 10 years; participants under 18 require parental or guardian consent.

What’s included in the price?

E-learning, an on-site theory session, all diving equipment and a guided ocean dive straight from shore are included.

What if I feel too nervous to continue?

Instructors move at your pace; if you cannot demonstrate required water comfort, you may not progress to the ocean dive for safety reasons.

Scuba Discovery at Shoal Bay: Calm Shore-Entry Dives for Beginners

Scuba Discovery at Shoal Bay is a relaxed, four-hour introduction to breathing underwater and exploring a temperate rocky reef just off the coast of Shoal Bay, New South Wales. Meet at 41 Ocean Beach Road, Shoal Bay, where Squids Dive Co’s small-team approach begins with land-based instruction and gear fitting. After a concise theory session and e-learning refresher, you’ll walk to the shore and practice basic skills in shallow water before a guided, shore-entry dive to a maximum depth of nine metres. The scene is immediate and intimate: low, sheltered water, rocky outcrops, seagrass beds and patches of kelp that attract colorful reef fish, sea stars and the occasional passing turtle or dolphin. The modest depth keeps the pressure light and makes this perfect for first-timers and anyone who’d rather avoid boat travel. Squids Dive Co limits groups to four, runs theory together but dives in pairs, and places an instructor beside every student so nervous divers get steady guidance from check-in through debrief. What makes this program stand out is the combination of accessibility and focus. You don’t need certification—only basic swimming ability, a signed medical form and about an hour of online study—yet you get a true guided ocean dive with full equipment supplied. The shore-entry format emphasizes real-world skills: buoyancy control, regulator practice and calm, relaxed navigation over reef structures that support temperate marine communities unique to the New South Wales coast. The itinerary moves efficiently: check-in and brief at HQ, travel to a nearby shore site (about 15 minutes), skills practice, two students in the water at a time for a 30–60 minute bottom time depending on comfort and air, followed by a thorough debrief where instructors log sightings and answer questions. Children 10 and older can join with parental consent, and staff will adjust pacing for nervous or inexperienced swimmers. Local context: Shoal Bay has long been a hub for coastal recreation, and these shore dives offer an up-close way to experience subtidal life without a boat. Responsible diving is part of the experience—students are coached on reef-aware behavior and encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen. If you’re curious about scuba but not ready to commit to certification, this is an efficient, confidence-building way to start your underwater story in a welcoming, professionally run setting. Included in the price are e-learning modules, the on-site theory session, full rental kit and a guided ocean dive straight from shore. Squids Dive Co keeps group sizes small to maximize instructor attention; dives run two students at a time with one instructor per pair. Expect 30–60 minutes underwater depending on air use. Bring swimmers, towel and a reusable water bottle; staff provide masks, tanks and weights so you can travel.

About Squids Dive Co

Squids Dive Co is a Shoal Bay-based dive school and snorkel operator serving Port Stephens. Specialising in freediving instruction, guided snorkel tours, and equipment hire, the company focuses on small-group experiences and personalised attention. Founded to share the marine environment of Fly Point Marine Reserve, Squids Dive Co operates hands-on training sessions in both pool and ocean settings and offers practical, safety-first teaching for beginners and intermediate participants.

The 2-Day PFI Freediver Course teaches breath-holding, equalisation, and safe diving techniques under PFI standards and concludes with an internationally recognised certification. Sessions combine classroom theory, pool training, and open-water dives so participants gain practical skills and confidence. Guided snorkel tours visit Fly Point Marine Reserve, where local guides highlight coral gardens and marine life at a relaxed pace suitable for all skill levels. Snorkel gear hire lets visitors explore independently, with optional guidance for novices or the chance to join a guided experience.

Safety and quality equipment are central to Squids Dive Co's approach. Small group sizes allow instructors to deliver personalised coaching and maintain safety standards. All courses and tours follow recognised training protocols and local marine regulations. Visitors receive clear briefings, guided site selection based on conditions, and support tailored to ability levels.

Squids Dive Co operates from Shoal Bay, New South Wales, providing accessible access to Port Stephens' sheltered bays. The business caters to holidaymakers, local divers, and anyone seeking professional freediving training or a curated snorkelling experience. Bookings are made online or via direct phone enquiry today.