Exploring the enchanting underwater world of Funchal, Madeira has never been easier. This beginner scuba diving experience caters to novices, offering personalized instruction and safety-focused training. At just €45 per person, it’s an accessible adventure for adventurers aged 8 and up. With equipment provided and a PADI instructor by your side, you’ll dive into a stunning marine protected area, encountering the vibrant sea life that calls these waters home. Though the journey may be brief, the memories are sure to last a lifetime.
Key Points
- A beginner scuba diving experience in Funchal, Madeira, priced at €45 per person, with a 2-3 hour duration and personalized attention for groups of up to 6 participants.
- The dive begins with a safety briefing and pool practice, followed by an ocean dive to explore the diverse marine life in Funchal’s protected area.
- All necessary dive equipment and a PADI instructor are provided, along with comprehensive safety training and insurance coverage for participants.
- The experience is suitable for participants aged 10 and older, with no flying for 12 hours after diving and not recommended for pregnant women or those with pre-existing conditions.
- Customers have consistently praised the friendly and knowledgeable instructors, as well as the "magical" and "memorable" underwater encounters during the dive.
Activity Overview and Pricing
The beginner scuba diving experience in Funchal’s marine protected area offers an exciting and affordable opportunity for visitors.
Priced from €45 per person, the 2-3 hour dive includes equipment, a PADI instructor, and safety training.
Priced from €45 per person, the 2-3 hour dive includes equipment, a PADI instructor, and safety training.
Groups are limited to 6 participants, with instruction available in English, German, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Booking is simple – reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This comprehensive package provides a fantastic introduction to the underwater world, catering to beginners aged 10 and above.
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Itinerary and Location
The experience begins at the Madeira Dive Point – Animação Turística, Lda., located inside the Pestana Carlton hotel. After a comprehensive safety briefing, you will practice diving skills in the pool. Then, it’s time to explore the private reef in Funchal’s marine protected area.
| Itinerary | Duration | Requirements |
| — | — | — |
| Safety Briefing | 45 minutes | – |
| Pool Practice | – | Ages 8+ |
| Ocean Dive | – | Ages 10+ |
The ocean dive offers the chance to view the diverse marine life. Instruction is available in English, German, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring a comfortable experience for all participants.
Safety and Equipment
Included in the scuba diving experience are the necessary dive equipment, a PADI instructor, a comprehensive safety and training session, as well as insurance coverage.
Participants won’t have to worry about the logistics as everything is provided.
Participants won’t have to worry about the logistics as everything is provided.
However, it’s important to note that there are some restrictions:
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No flying for 12 hours after diving
-
Not suitable for pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions
-
Children under 8 years old aren’t permitted for the ocean dive portion
Safety is the top priority, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all beginner divers.
Customer Reviews and Experience
What do customers have to say about this scuba diving experience for beginners? According to reviews, the experience exceeds expectations. Customers praise the friendly and knowledgeable instructors who ease nerves and provide comprehensive training. Many describe the diving as "magical" with "memorable underwater encounters". The overall rating is an impressive 4.9/5 based on 440 reviews.
| Positive Experiences | Negative Experiences | Improvement Suggestions |
|———————-|———————|————————-|
| Friendly instructors | None reported | None provided |
| Comprehensive training| N/A | N/A |
| Magical diving | N/A | N/A |
| Memorable encounters | N/A | N/A
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to Bring and Additional Information
Essentials customers should bring for this scuba diving experience include swimwear and a towel.
For an optimal experience, consider bringing the following:
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Camera for capturing underwater photos and videos
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Reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin
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Snacks or water to stay hydrated
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Dry clothes to change into after the dive
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Extra storage for your belongings during the activity
Customers have provided positive feedback about the instructors’ commitment to ensuring safety and comfort throughout the diving session.
It’s recommended to book a few days in advance, especially if you need to obtain dive certification prior to the activity.
Preparing for Your Scuba Diving Adventure
Preparing for your scuba diving adventure starts with ensuring you have all the necessary items. Consult the table below to see what you should bring:
| Essentials | Optional |
| — | — |
| Swimwear | Camera |
| Towel | Underwater camera case |
| Sunscreen | Extra batteries |
Beyond the basics, consider bringing a waterproof camera to capture the magical underwater world. Remember, no flying is allowed for 12 hours after diving to ensure your safety. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to embark on an incredible scuba diving experience in Funchal’s marine protected area.
Exploring Funchal’s Marine Protected Area
Although the vibrant capital city of Funchal offers a wealth of cultural attractions, the true hidden gem lies beneath the waves of its marine protected area.
Beginner scuba divers can explore this underwater oasis, teeming with diverse marine life. The experience includes:
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Safety briefing and pool practice to hone diving skills
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Ocean dive at a private reef to witness the wonders of the Madeiran marine ecosystem
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Guided by friendly, knowledgeable PADI-certified instructors
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Comprehensive equipment and insurance provided
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Flexible booking options with free cancellation for added convenience
This beginner-friendly dive offers an unforgettable glimpse into Funchal’s captivating underwater world.
Booking and Cancellation Policies
Travelers can reserve their beginner scuba diving experience in Funchal’s marine protected area and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The experience is limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the PADI-certified instructor. Diving equipment, safety training, and insurance are all included.
The entry-level dive is suitable for ages 10 and up, with a pool session for those 8 and older. Guests should plan to avoid flying for 12 hours after the dive.
This beginner-friendly activity is a great way to explore Funchal’s vibrant underwater world.
The Sum Up
Funchal’s beginner scuba diving experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the enchanting underwater world. With personalized instruction, quality equipment, and access to a stunning marine protected area, this 2-3 hour adventure is a must-do for newcomers to diving. Priced at just €45 per person, it’s an affordable way to discover the beauty beneath the waves and create lasting memories.
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