Lisbon Eco-Try Dive – Diving Baptism

Considering a gentle yet meaningful entry into the world of scuba diving while contributing to marine preservation? The Lisbon Eco-Try Dive at the Anthia Diving Center in Setubal District offers just that — an engaging, eco-conscious intro to the ocean’s wonders. With a stellar 5.0-star rating from 13 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this experience is gaining popularity among those eager to explore Portugal’s marine biodiversity while making a positive impact.

What makes this experience stand out? Firstly, it combines basic diving techniques with an awareness of marine ecology, emphasizing conservation. Secondly, the inclusion of plastic and garbage collection during the second dive adds a tangible, feel-good element. Lastly, the professionalism and safety focus of the instructors—each instructor is responsible for just two participants—provides peace of mind for first-timers. The only notable consideration? It’s a 3-hour experience, so if you’re after a full-day adventure or advanced certification, this might not suffice. Still, it’s perfect for curious travelers wanting a taste of underwater life in a responsible way. This tour suits beginners, eco-conscious travelers, and those seeking a meaningful, memorable experience in Portugal’s waters.

Key Points

• Accessible introduction: No prior experience needed; learn essential safety and diving techniques.
• Focus on conservation: Participate in cleaning the seabed, fostering awareness and action.
• Expert guidance: Small instructor-to-participant ratio ensures safety and personalized attention.
• Unparalleled biodiversity: Explore the largest marine biodiversity in Europe at Professor Luíz Saldanha Marine Park.
• Recognition: Certification of “Mission Deep Blue” adds value and recognition to your efforts.
• Weather-dependent: Good weather is necessary; cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable.

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon Eco-Try Dive

Starting at Anthia Diving Center in Sesimbra, the experience kicks off at 1:00 pm, with a welcoming and professional environment that immediately reassures newcomers. The center’s philosophy of eco-diving manifests through their strong emphasis on sea floor preservation and engaging participants in environmental activities, such as collecting plastic waste.

What to Expect During the Experience

This 3-hour adventure is divided into two main parts: an initial adaptation dive and a subsequent exploration dive with trash collection. The first, more relaxed dive serves as a familiarization session, where you’ll learn basic diving techniques and safety procedures. The guides are experienced, and according to reviews, they are both knowledgeable and friendly. One reviewer, Reza_R, described the day as an “amazing and unforgettable experience with friendly people,” highlighting how well the team manages the transition from theory to practical underwater activity.

The second dive is where the real impact happens. You’ll explore the underwater landscape, often described as stunning, and contribute by collecting plastic bottles or other debris. The focus is not just on the fun of floating in the water but on raising awareness about pollution’s effect on marine ecosystems. This hands-on approach is appreciated by participants, who leave with not only a sense of achievement but also a greater understanding of ocean health.

Diving in Professor Luíz Saldanha Marine Park

The marine park is noted for its vast biodiversity, making it an appealing site for beginners and seasoned divers alike. While this experience is more akin to a snorkel and shallow introduction rather than a deep exploration, the visibility and variety of marine life are still impressive. The scenery includes vibrant fish, interesting rock formations, and clear waters, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

Safety and Group Size

A standout feature of the program is safety. With an instructor allocated to just two participants, you get a tailored experience that ensures comfort and attention to safety rules. This smaller group size means you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed, which is crucial for first-timers. The staff at Anthia Diving Center prioritizes well-being and safety, giving peace of mind to those new to scuba.

Certification and Recognition

Participants receive a “Mission Deep Blue” certificate upon completing the experience. This internationally recognized acknowledgment by SSI (Scuba Schools International) and Wild Sea Europe signifies your contribution to marine conservation efforts and your initial step into the diving world. It’s perfect for those considering further training or simply wanting a tangible reminder of their eco-venture.

Practicalities and Cost-Value

Costing $115.64 per person, the experience is quite reasonable considering the expert guidance, conservation focus, and the opportunity to explore an area with Europe’s greatest marine biodiversity. For many, the value lies in the education, memorable underwater moments, and the positive impact made. It’s a well-rounded package: a manageable length, beginner-friendly, and eco-focused.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the activity is weather-dependent, participants should be flexible. In case of poor weather, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded—an important detail that highlights the professionalism of the providers. This adds an element of security, particularly for travelers planning around unpredictable Atlantic weather.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time divers or those curious about the underwater world without diving deep into certification. Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the environmental aspect, especially the trash collection element. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a manageable, impactful adventure. If you’re someone who loves learning about ecosystems and wants to leave a positive mark, this tour offers a meaningful and fun introduction.

Final Thoughts

The Lisbon Eco-Try Dive blends adventure, education, and conservation into one compelling package. The focus on safety, biodiversity, and environmental awareness makes it stand out from typical introductory diving experiences. The guides’ knowledgeable and friendly approach, combined with the chance to contribute to cleaning the ocean, creates a memorable, worthwhile outing.

While it’s not designed for advanced divers or those looking for a lengthy underwater exploration, this experience hits the sweet spot for beginners and eco-enthusiasts alike. The opportunity to see Portugal’s marine biodiversity up close, learn about ocean health, and make a difference makes it a tour worth considering.

If you want a responsible, engaging, and beautifully scenic introduction to Portugal’s underwater life, the Lisbon Eco-Try Dive could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Do I need prior diving experience?
No, this experience is designed for beginners and includes all necessary training and safety instructions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the training session, the two dives, safety equipment, and the certification of “Mission Deep Blue.”

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 1:00 pm at the Anthia Diving Center.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, it’s ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable in water; check with the center for age limits.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing, bring sunscreen, and perhaps a towel. The diving center provides all necessary equipment.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The activity depends on good weather conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The instructor-to-participant ratio is 1:2, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes, you will receive a “Mission Deep Blue” certificate recognizing your contribution and participation.

Can I extend this experience into diving certification?
While this program is an introduction, it can serve as a stepping stone for further certification courses.

In summary, the Lisbon Eco-Try Dive offers a responsible and rewarding way to explore Portugal’s marine environment. Ideal for those new to diving or passionate about conservation, it combines education, adventure, and a chance to give back to the ocean in just a few hours. Whether you’re seeking a fun activity or a meaningful experience, this tour provides both in abundance.