SSI Open Water Diver Course in South Tenerife — 3-Day Certification by the Atlantic

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

You meet the Atlantic on a wind-scraped quay in south Tenerife: black volcanic cliffs cut the horizon, the ocean breathes in steady swells, and instructors load gear into a bright dive RIB. The first surface lesson ends with the sea daring you forward; by the second day the reef has a personality — sculpted rock ledges that funnel schools of fish and small caves that test your trim.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

3 days (approx. 72 hours).

Fitness level

Moderate fitness required: ability to swim, basic mobility to climb ladders and carry light gear, and tolerate repeated surface intervals.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the course and how many dives are included?

The SSI Open Water program here runs about three days and includes six open-water dives plus confined-water training and briefings.

What are the age and fitness requirements?

Minimum age is 12; participants should be able to swim and have a moderate fitness level to manage repeated dives and boat transfers.

Is equipment included and do I need insurance?

Scuba equipment, instructor, SSI materials and diving insurance are provided as part of the course; bringing a personal mask is recommended.

What happens if weather forces a cancellation?

Operators may try to reschedule your chosen day; the listed cancellation policy allows a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand.

Local insights

Wildlife

octopus
European barracuda (small barracuda and schooling fish)

History

Tenerife’s southern ports grew from fishing hamlets; modern diving developed alongside tourism, using local boatbuilding and seamanship traditions.

Conservation

Many operators follow reef-friendly guidelines and favor mooring over anchoring; use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching marine life to limit impact.

About Medanodive

Medanodive operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationLos Cristianos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Tours offered4+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Hydrate and eat lightBring water and a light meal before diving days — dehydration increases risk of fatigue and seasickness.

Practice mask skills ashoreBring or borrow a personal mask to practice clearing and fit during the first session for better comfort underwater.

Declare medical conditionsNotify the operator of any recent injuries, surgeries or respiratory/cardiac issues before booking; some conditions require physician clearance.

Time your flightsAvoid flying for at least 18–24 hours after your final dive to reduce decompression risk.

Recommended gear

Personal mask and snorkel: Better fit and comfort speed skill acquisition and reduce mask-clearing frustration.
Shorty wetsuit or rash guard: Provided suits may be available; a personal shorty improves comfort in warmer months.
Dive logbook and pen: Record skills and dives for certification records and future reference.
Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects skin during surface intervals while minimizing impact on marine life.