Tenerife’s Underwater Wonder: Discover Scuba Diving with an Instructor

If the idea of breathing underwater and floating weightlessly appeals to you, then Tenerife’s Discover Scuba Diving experience might be just what you need. This 3-hour introduction, offered by DiveBase Tenerife in the charming town of Alcalá, promises a safe, supportive environment to get your first taste of diving. From the safety briefing to the colorful marine life, this session is designed for those curious about what lies beneath the surface—without the need for prior training or certification.
What I love about this experience is the way it combines professional guidance with a genuine sense of adventure. The staff, particularly guides like Angie, are praised for their patience and passion—making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. Another highlight is the location itself: Alcalá’s proximity to the house reef and the famous Baja de la Tortuga dive site means you’ll likely see some stunning underwater scenery and marine creatures in their natural environment. The flat, calm waters make it ideal for beginners, giving you confidence as you breathe underwater for the first time.
One potential consideration is that this activity is limited to those over 12 years old, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or non-swimmers. Also, you’ll need to plan to stay on land for at least 12 hours afterward if you plan to fly—something to keep in mind when scheduling your trip. But overall, the experience offers excellent value for the price, especially with the inclusion of full equipment, safety gear, and an instructor.
Key Points / Takeaways

- No prior experience needed: Perfect for first-timers curious about exploring underwater life.
- Professional guides like Angie and Viktor receive high praise for their helpfulness and patience.
- Location matters: Alcalá’s easy access from Tenerife’s west coast and proximity to scenic dive sites enhances the experience.
- Supported environment: Small groups (limited to 4 participants) and a calm setting mean you’ll get plenty of individual attention.
- Incredible marine sights: Expect to see colorful fish and diverse marine life, supported by guides who can point out notable species.
- Value for money: At $91, the experience includes all equipment, insurance, and a certificate—making it a worthwhile investment.
Ready to go deeper? More scuba adventures we love in Tenerife
Exploring Tenerife’s Underwater World: A Dive Into Details

The Invitation: Your First Breath Underwater
I love how this experience starts with the basics—no need to be a swimmer or hold a certification. After a straightforward safety briefing and equipment introduction, you’re suited up and ready to go. The small group size means you’ll get personalized help, and your instructor will be right there guiding you through each step. Hearing from reviews like Viktor’s, who mentions the “super helpful” and “funny” guides, I get the sense that this is a friendly, relaxed way to try diving.
The Location: Alcalá’s Charm & Dive Site Accessibility
Alcalá is a picturesque town on Tenerife’s west coast, with a laid-back vibe perfect for a quick escape. You’ll meet at DiveBase Tenerife, conveniently located next to the main square and the ocean, just a short walk from the house reef known as Baja de la Tortuga. The ease of access here is a plus—no long boat rides or complicated logistics. The proximity to the reef allows for a natural transition from land to water, making the whole experience feel seamless.
The Safety and Instruction: What to Expect
The safety briefing, lasting about 45 minutes, covers everything from equipment use to underwater signals. The guides are praised for their expertise—Dorinda points out that the instructors can handle panicked beginners calmly, guiding them safely through their first breath underwater. Such reassurance is invaluable when you’re stepping into an environment that feels entirely new.
- Whale Watching Eco-Adventure From Costa Adeje
- Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing With Dinner (Star Safari)
- Teide by Night: Sunset & Stargazing With Telescopes Experience
- Group Surfing Lesson at Playa De Las Américas, Tenerife
- Whales Listening Eco-Catamaran Tour With Food Tasting
- Tandem Paragliding Flight in South Tenerife
The Dive: What You’ll Really See
Once in the water, the underwater scenery unfolds in front of you. Expect to swim alongside schools of colorful fish and witness the vibrant marine ecosystem that surrounds Tenerife. The experience lasts roughly an hour, giving you ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. Guides like Angie are known for sharing their passion, making every moment engaging and educational.
Post-Dive & Certification
After surfacing, you’ll return to DiveBase to receive a certificate commemorating your first underwater adventure. Many reviews praise the guides’ patience and enthusiasm—Alain calls Angie a “superb instructor who makes sharing her passion easy.” It’s a tangible reminder of what you accomplished, and a memento of your first step into the underwater world.
Considerations & Practical Tips
While this experience is excellent, a few practical points matter. You should bring swimwear and a towel, as rentals are not available. Remember, after your dive, you need to avoid flying for at least 12 hours—the regulations are strict, but understandable considering safety. Also, if you’re nervous, the supportive environment—highlighted by guides like Viktor and Dorinda—will help you overcome initial fears.
Pricing & Value
At $91 per person, including full equipment, insurance, and instruction, this experience offers good value. For those contemplating whether to try diving, the cost covers everything you need to take your first breath underwater. Compared to booking a full certification course, this is a short but impactful way to test the waters—pun intended—and decide if you want to pursue further training.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving without a long-term commitment. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy experiencing new environments in the company of knowledgeable, friendly instructors. If you’ve ever been curious about underwater life but didn’t want to commit to a certification, this is a perfect starting point. It’s also a great activity for families or couples seeking a shared adventure.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re visiting Tenerife and the ocean intrigues you, this Discover Scuba experience offers a fantastic taste of what lies beneath the waves. The combination of professional guidance, scenic location, and friendly atmosphere makes it a memorable introduction. It’s a chance to breathe underwater, see colorful fish, and gain a new perspective—all for a fair price.
For travelers who value safety, authentic experiences, and expert guides, this activity hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy small group settings and personalized attention. The reviews confirm that guides like Angie, Viktor, and Dorinda excel at making beginners feel comfortable and excited. Plus, the proximity to beautiful dive sites ensures that what you see will be well worth the effort.
In short, if you’re ready to step outside your comfort zone and try something new, Tenerife’s Discover Scuba Diving offers a safe, fun, and memorable way to do just that. It’s best suited for curious, open-minded travelers eager to experience the ocean in a supportive environment.
FAQ

Do I need any previous experience to join this tour?
No, you do not need any prior experience. This activity is designed for beginners, with instructors providing all the necessary lessons and guidance.
How long does the entire experience last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, including safety briefings, gear fitting, and the actual underwater time, which is about 1 hour.
What should I bring for the experience?
Bring swimwear and a towel. Rental of towels or swimsuits is not available, so plan to bring your essentials.
Can I participate if I am not a strong swimmer?
Yes, but you should be comfortable in the water. Non-swimmers are not suitable for this activity, but the calm environment and instructor support help make it accessible for most.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, participants must be at least 12 years old. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, or people with back, heart, or respiratory problems.
What if I have medical concerns or questions before booking?
You should fill out the medical questionnaire via the provided links. If you answer “yes” to any questions, contact the DiveBase team—additional medical clearance may be required.
In essence, Tenerife’s Discover Scuba Diving experience offers a safe, friendly, and visually stunning introduction to the underwater world. Perfect for those seeking a memorable, beginner-friendly adventure, it’s a chance to see Tenerife from a whole new perspective—beneath the waves.
More Scuba Diving Tours in Tenerife
More Tour Reviews in Tenerife
- Tenerife: Kayak and Snorkel with Turtles, Wetsuits Included
- Teide: Guided Planet Observation Tour with Telescope
- Private Try Dive for 2 with our experienced Instructor
- Tenerife: Private VIP Tour Teide National Park
- Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike in the laurel forest
- Punta de Teno: Kayak Safari overlooking Los Gigantes Cliffs
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Tenerife we have recnetly reviewed
- Costa Adeje: Whale Watching Eco Experience with Hydrophone.
- Icod de los Vinos: Dragon Tree & Botanical Garden Ticket
- Tenerife: Scuba Dive & Fun, Discover the Magic of the Ocean
- Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkeling, Marine Fauna Watching
- Tenerife: Wrangler jeep tour in the volcano teide at sunset
- Tenerife: Whale Watching Boat Tour with a Marine Biologist
- Tenerife : clases de surf para principiantes y intermedios
- Tenerife: Kayak Safari and Sea Turtle Snorkeling with Photos
- Tenerife: Volcano Teide Buggy Tour with Wine Tasting & Tapas
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Wooden Box Decoration Workshop
- Tenerife: Mount Teide Quad Adventure
- From Tenerife South: La Gomera Full-Day Trip with Transfers
