Learn to breathe underwater in the clear coves of Arrábida Natural Park with an SSI Open Water Diver course. Over three days you’ll master basic skills, complete open-water dives to 18 m, and earn internationally recognized certification.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The sea here has a voice: a steady, saline whisper that presses at the rocks of Arrábida and dares you to go deeper. Students gather at the white van with pink logos before dawn, then move from classroom to sheltered bay — sand and limestone cliffs framing training sessions that will carry them down to 18 metres of Atlantic blue.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness and comfortable swimming ability; able to enter/exit water from shore and perform short surface swims.
Wildlife
History
The Arrábida coast has long been used by small fishing communities and contains a historic Carmelite convent perched above Portinho, linking maritime life with local religious heritage.
Conservation
Posidonia seagrass meadows are key carbon sinks and nurseries; divers are asked to maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid contact with the seabed to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Open Water Diver Course in Arrabida Natural Park (Near Lisbon) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a reusable water bottle
Surface intervals and shore time are dry—refill and stay hydrated between dives to avoid fatigue.
Practice buoyancy control beforehand
Basic breath control and float practice in a pool will make skill sessions quicker and safer.
Protect Posidonia meadows
Keep fins and weights clear of seagrass; follow briefings to avoid damaging fragile habitats.
Time your travel around tides
Calm surface conditions are common early morning; check local tide charts for the smoothest open-water dives.
Lightweight travel wetsuit (3–5 mm)
Personal thermal protection adds comfort during surface intervals and when conditions are cool.
Mask, snorkel, and fitted fins
Personal fit improves skill learning and reduces water ingress during training.
Rashguard or sun shirt
Protects from sun during surface intervals and reduces chafing under gear.
summer
Dive logbook or waterproof notebook
Record skills, dive profiles and instructor feedback for certification and future dives.