Double dive in the Algarve. Don’t stop on the beach!

Introduction: What makes this Algarve diving tour special?

This double dive experience in the Algarve offers certified divers a chance to explore the region’s underwater beauty beyond the busy beaches. Organized by Portugal Dive in Albufeira, it’s a three-hour adventure that promises to unlock some of the best marine sights Portugal’s coast has to offer. What stands out is the focus on quality—small groups capped at six, personalized attention from expert guides, and all necessary equipment included.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this trip are the knowledge and friendliness of the guides and the flexibility of the experience—whether you want to swim, take photos, or just relax and enjoy the underwater scenery. The inclusion of a detailed briefing beforehand ensures you’re well-prepared, which is reassuring for anyone who’s serious about safety and fun.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour caters to certified divers only. If you’re not yet certified, the operator does offer a “try dive” option with supervision, but this specific trip is designed for those with existing certification. The price at just over $160 per person may seem steep for a three-hour activity, but considering the small group size, expert guidance, and all equipment provided, it delivers good value for those eager to see the underwater world of the Algarve.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group Experience: Max six divers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed environment.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable instructors who help you navigate the best diving spots and ensure safety.
• All Equipment Included: No need to rent or bring your gear; everything is provided for a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible and Customizable: You can choose what you want to do underwater—swim freely or take pictures.
• Focus on Conservation: Guides emphasize respecting and protecting marine life during the tour.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers reserve about two weeks ahead, highlighting the tour’s popularity.

Discovering the Algarve’s Underwater Charm

I love how the Algarve region isn’t just about sunbathing on crowded beaches. This tour takes you beneath the surface into a world teeming with colorful fish, intriguing rock formations, and lush flora. The clarity of the water makes everything look vivid and inviting, and it’s easy to see why so many certified divers flock here.

When I read the reviews, I was struck by how much people appreciated the guides’ help. Jos_S, who reviewed the experience in August 2021, called the staff’s assistance “great” and expressed eagerness to return with more family members. That’s a good sign that the guides genuinely care about providing a memorable experience, not just a commercial one.

The briefing at the start, lasting about 60 to 90 minutes, is crucial. It covers everything from the dive sites to safe behavior underwater. The guides—like Claudia Ferreira—are committed to responsible diving, stressing the importance of leaving the environment untouched, which is a responsible approach that all divers should appreciate.

One of the best parts? You get to pick what you want to see or do underwater. Want to float along and look at marine life? Or take photos of the stunning rock formations? It’s all up to you, as long as you respect the environment. That level of customization makes this experience more than just a routine dive—it becomes a personalized adventure.

Itinerary and Dive Site Highlights

The tour begins at the Marina de Albufeira, where you’ll meet your guides and get suited up. After a quick safety briefing, it’s time to head out on the boat to the chosen dive sites. The actual sites are not explicitly named here, but the emphasis on traveling to the “best dive sites” suggests that the guides tailor each trip to current conditions and what’s most interesting that day.

During the approximately three hours, you can expect to explore rock formations and flora unique to the Algarve. The underwater scenery is described as vibrant, with marine life actively thriving in the clear waters. Certified divers can freely explore the depths, with guides monitoring their safety at all times.

For those unfamiliar, the activity ends back at the marina, where you can debrief, share photos, and reflect on the experience. This setup is ideal for small groups who want a more intimate, personalized experience rather than a crowded tour.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re a certified diver looking to explore the Algarve beyond the beaches, this tour is a great match. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate expert guidance, personalized attention, and a responsible approach to diving. Families or small groups who want flexibility and a safe environment will find this a rewarding choice.

It’s not suitable for non-certified divers unless you opt for the “try dive” option, which allows you to experience diving under direct supervision. For travelers worried about safety or unfamiliar with diving, the guides’ professionalism and emphasis on safety are reassuring.

This is a good choice for those who want a quality, small-group experience that emphasizes the beauty of Algarve’s underwater world without sacrificing safety or environmental responsibility.

Price and Logistics: Is it worth it?

At $161.95 per person, this experience is not the cheapest activity available, but when you consider all the included equipment, the small-group setup, and the expertise of the guides, it provides solid value. The fact that most bookings are made 14 days in advance indicates good demand, so planning ahead is wise.

The tour runs daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving you flexibility to choose a time that suits your schedule. Meeting at the Marina de Albufeira makes it convenient for travelers staying in or near the town.

Cancellation policy is flexible—free if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance—which adds peace of mind, especially if weather conditions change suddenly. Since diving relies heavily on good weather, it’s reassuring that the tour will be rescheduled or refunded if conditions aren’t suitable.

Final thoughts: Who should consider this experience

This activity is best for certified divers wanting to explore the Algarve’s underwater scenery with knowledgeable guides and a small, friendly group. If you’re comfortable in the water and eager to see marine life, rock formations, and vibrant flora, this is a worthy and well-organized outing. It’s also ideal for families or groups who want a more personalized approach to diving.

Travelers who value safety, environmental respect, and expert instruction will find this tour worth the price. Its flexible approach allows for a customized underwater experience—whether you’re interested in photography, observing marine life, or simply floating around.

If you’re on the fence about diving but curious about what’s beneath the waves, ask the guides about their “try dive” options—they may be able to introduce you to the underwater world with supervision. Remember, the Algarve’s underwater secrets are waiting for you—don’t just stop at the beach!

FAQ: Your questions answered

Is this tour suitable for non-certified divers?
This specific tour is designed for certified divers. However, the provider does offer a “try dive” option where you can dive under supervision if you’re not certified yet.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including briefing, travel, and diving time.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary scuba diving equipment is provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your gear. The price also covers expert guides and small group attention.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caters to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers reserve about 14 days ahead, as it’s a popular activity, especially in peak season.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where do I meet the guides?
The meeting point is at the Marina de Albufeira, specifically at Beco da Orada. It’s conveniently located for travelers staying in Albufeira.

To sum it up, this Algarve diving experience offers certified divers a personalized, well-guided opportunity to see the region’s underwater treasures. With expert guides, all equipment provided, and a focus on environmental respect, it’s a memorable way to expand your Algarve adventure beyond the beaches. Suitable for small groups, families, or anyone eager for a responsible and flexible diving outing, it’s a solid choice for making your trip to Portugal truly memorable.