Fun Dives For Certified Divers

If you’re a certified diver heading to Sri Lanka and looking for a reputable operator to explore its underwater treasures, Divinguru Nilaveli offers an experience that’s hard to beat. With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 30 reviews, this tour promises professional guidance, stunning marine sights, and a welcoming atmosphere. We’ll cover what makes this tour stand out, what you can expect, and why it might be just what you need for your next underwater adventure.

What We Love About This Experience:

• The small group sizes (max 5 divers) ensure personalized attention and safety.
• The variety of dive sites, from shallow reefs to deeper wrecks, caters to different experience levels and interests.
• The knowledgeable guides, especially Ellie and Norbert, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
• The well-maintained equipment, free Nitrox, and eco-friendly boats add to the overall value.

One thing to consider: The tour includes an additional entrance fee of 15 Euros if you visit Pigeon Island, which may surprise some travelers. Budgeting for this beforehand helps avoid surprises.

This tour suits certified divers seeking a mix of relaxed reef exploring and deeper, more adventurous sites. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate expert guides, excellent equipment, and a more intimate group experience.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 5 divers per boat for personalized attention.
• Diverse Dive Spots: Reef, wreck, rock, and night dives to match various interests.
• Inclusive & Value-Added: Tank, weights, guide, and Nitrox are free, enhancing affordability.
• Flexibility: Options for one or two dives, with morning or afternoon sessions.
• Professional & Friendly Guides: Highly praised instructors like Ellie and Norbert ensure safe and enjoyable dives.
• Additional Fees: Pigeon Island entrance fee of 15 Euros applies, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Meeting Arrangements

The tour begins at Divinguru Nilaveli, a well-established PADI 5-Star IDC Dive Resort. You’ll typically meet at 8:30 am for morning dives or 1:30 pm for afternoon adventures. The process is straightforward, with online confirmation and flexible scheduling, thanks to their free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start.

The location itself offers a convenient access point, close to public transport and well-equipped for a smooth start to your underwater journey.

What the Tour Includes

For around $52.33 per person, you receive not only the dive tank, weights, and guide but also scuba equipment rental if needed, with Nitrox provided free of charge. The tanks are standard 12L aluminium with both INT and DIN valves, making it compatible with most regulators.

The tour involves one or two fun dives, each at different sites, with surface intervals on the boat. The dives last approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on the site and group size. The boats are powered by environmentally friendly Yamaha engines, with a maximum of 5 divers per boat, keeping trips intimate and manageable.

Dive Sites and Marine Life

The diverse range of dive sites features depths from 6 to 30 meters, covering reefs, wrecks, and rock formations. At reefs, you’ll encounter over 1,000 species, including Eagle Rays, Turtles, Cuttlefish, Barracuda, Trevally, and Lion Fish. Soft and hard corals flourish here, with over 200 species of corals creating vibrant underwater gardens.

Reviewers highlight the quality of sites—“the water and coral life are abundant, with lots of fish and interesting formations,” as one diver put it. The shallow areas near Pigeon Island Marine Park are often full of coral fishes and reef sharks, including Black Tip Reef Sharks and Turtles, making it a favorite for underwater photographers and nature lovers.

Occasionally, between April and June, lucky divers might spot Whale Sharks, Reef Sharks, and Mantas, though these sightings are rare and not guaranteed.

The Guides and Safety

From the feedback, Ellie and Norbert are standouts. They’re praised for their professionalism, kindness, and attentiveness. One reviewer shared, “Eliska and Norbert were great guides. They were fun but at the same time very responsible… I felt safe at all times.” Their focus on safety and personalized attention allows divers to relax and enjoy the underwater scenery without nerves.

The small groups and well-maintained equipment contribute to a safe environment. Many reviewers mention the clear communication and thorough explanations, especially for less experienced divers or those doing refresher courses.

The Additional Pigeon Island Entrance Fee

A notable point is the additional 15 Euros entrance fee for Pigeon Island, a popular shallow reef site known for its abundant hard and soft corals and marine life. Reviewers note that the island’s coral gardens are teeming with fish, and the presence of turtles and reef sharks adds to the appeal. While the fee might be an unexpected expense for some, the overall value of the site makes it worthwhile, especially for those interested in vibrant coral ecosystems.

Food and Facilities

Divinguru’s own restaurant is frequently praised for its delicious offerings, providing a great spot for a post-dive meal. Snacks, coffee, and bottled water are included in the tour, adding to the comfort and convenience. Multiple reviewers highlight how well-organized and clean the facilities are, describing the dive center as spacious, well-designed, and very professional.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

Compared to other operators, the inclusion of free Nitrox, high-quality equipment, small groups, and experienced guides makes this experience a solid investment. The price point of around $52.33 is competitive given the level of service, access to prime sites, and the personalized approach.

Authentic Experiences from Other Divers

Many reviews echo the sentiment of having a safe, fun, and memorable time. One diver mentioned, “They asked us if we wanted to go to the national park and snorkel with sharks between the dives,” showing the flexibility and extra care provided. Others shared how the staff’s friendliness made all the difference, even on multi-day trips or during certification courses.

Who Should Book This?

This tour is perfect for certified divers who want a hassle-free experience with top-notch guides in a beautiful setting. It’s suitable for those who value small group sizes and personalized attention. If you’re after a relaxed but professional atmosphere, with incredible marine biodiversity, you’ll find this tour ticks those boxes.

Final Thoughts

Divinguru Nilaveli stands out as a well-run, friendly operation that balances professionalism with genuine care for its guests. The variety of sites and marine life will appeal to both casual explorers and more experienced underwater enthusiasts. The included amenities, free Nitrox, and expert guides add real value to an already competitive price point.

For divers who want a safe, personalized experience with a chance to see an impressive array of marine creatures and coral formations, this tour offers a compelling option. Just remember to budget for the Pigeon Island entrance fee if you plan to visit, and you’re set for a memorable Sri Lankan underwater adventure.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own scuba gear?
Not necessarily. The tour includes the use of scuba equipment, and you can bring your own or rent theirs. They provide well-maintained, high-quality gear, including wetsuits and masks.

How many dives are included in the tour?
You can choose between one or two fun dives, with the itinerary tailored to your preferences. The dives are conducted at different sites, with surface intervals on the boat.

What is the minimum age or experience level?
You must be a certified diver to participate. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and diving certification.

How long is the total tour?
Expect the tour to last approximately 4 hours, with morning dives starting at 8.30 am and afternoon dives at 1.30 pm. The exact duration depends on the number of dives and site distances.

Is Nitrox really free?
Yes, Nitrox is provided at no extra charge, which can extend your bottom time and improve comfort during dives.

What about the additional entrance fee?
If you visit Pigeon Island, there is an extra fee of around 15 Euros. It’s paid directly on-site and covers the island’s protected reef area.

Overall, diving with Divinguru Nilaveli is a thoughtfully organized, value-packed experience that offers beautiful underwater sights and a friendly, professional atmosphere. Whether you’re into coral reefs, wrecks, or just want to relax and enjoy Sri Lanka’s marine life, this tour is well worth considering.