Eco – Try Dive

Introducing the Eco – Try Dive Experience in Sesimbra
If you’re considering dipping your toes into the underwater world without committing to a full certification, the Eco – Try Dive offered by Anthia Diving Center in the Setubal District, Portugal, is a fantastic option. Priced at around $103.18 per person, this roughly 4-hour introduction to scuba diving is perfect for beginners or those curious about eco-conscious diving. The program emphasizes safety, fun, and environmental care, with the added bonus of helping to clean the seabed and earning a “Mission Deep Blue” certificate. With a consistent rating of 5 stars from 8 reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with many travelers.

What I love most about this experience is the dedication to safety and professionalism—each instructor is paired with just two participants, ensuring personalized attention and peace of mind. Plus, the focus on environmental preservation gives this activity a meaningful edge; you’re not just exploring marine life but actively contributing to its protection. A second highlight is how Sesimbra’s waters offer remarkable clarity and a diverse abundance of species, making it a visual treat. One reviewer marvels at the “clear water full of sea life,” which makes the underwater scene even more captivating.

However, keep in mind that this experience is tailored to those with moderate physical fitness and able to follow basic safety instructions. Since it’s a single introductory session, it may not suit travelers looking for a longer or more advanced diving adventure. Also, as weather conditions can influence outdoor water activities, being flexible with your schedule is advisable.

Key Points

• Professional Guides and Safety: The team at Anthia Diving Center prioritizes safety with instructor-to-participant ratios of 1:2, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.
• Environmental Focus: This eco-dive program offers a chance to contribute to seabed cleanup and receive the “Mission Deep Blue” certificate, emphasizing marine conservation.
• Stunning Marine Environment: The waters near Sesimbra are noted for their exceptional clarity and vibrant marine life, making the underwater encounter visually rewarding.
• Accessible for Beginners: This activity is suitable for newcomers and families, including children, thanks to thorough briefings and a focus on safety and fun.
• Best for Curious Travelers: Those interested in trying diving with minimal commitment, and eager to support eco-friendly initiatives, will find this experience particularly valuable.
• Weather-dependent: Since the activity relies on sea conditions, flexible scheduling or contingency plans might be necessary, especially in less predictable weather.

A Practical Review of Eco – Try Dive in Sesimbra

I’m here to give you a detailed look at what makes the Eco – Try Dive experience stand out, especially if you’re contemplating a beginner adventure that combines fun, safety, and marine conservation. This program, based in the picturesque town of Sesimbra in Portugal’s Setubal District, offers a balanced blend of novice-friendly instruction and meaningful environmental work, making it more than just your average intro to scuba.

What is Included and What You’ll Need to Know

Starting in the afternoon at 2:30 pm from the Anthia Diving Center, your day begins with a briefing that sets the tone for safety and fun. The price, at a little over $103, covers all scuba equipment you’ll need—so no hidden costs there—and the experience lasts about four hours, including the time in the water and onshore preparations. Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so bringing a snack or planning for after the activity is a good idea. The activity can accommodate up to 15 travelers, allowing for an intimate group setting that’s ideal for newcomers or families.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The experience kicks off in the late afternoon, giving you a chance to enjoy Sesimbra’s charm before heading under the surface. The instructor-to-guest ratio remains low, with an instructor assigned to every two participants, which ensures personalized guidance. Once suited up, you’ll take your first breaths underwater in either confined or open water—whichever suits the day’s conditions and your confidence level.

The highlight is the eco-diving component—participants are encouraged to help clean the seabed. This environmental aspect is a rarity among introductory diving programs and adds a real sense of purpose to your adventure. Many reviewers comment on the professionalism and caring attitude of the guides, with one stating, “the staff was very professional and very kind.” During the dive, expect to see more than 1500 species in the marine reserve, with clear waters providing excellent visibility. The experience finishes with a sense of achievement and the chance to receive your “Mission Deep Blue” certificate, a tangible token of your contribution to seabed conservation.

Guides and Safety

The guides at Anthia Diving Center are praised repeatedly for their knowledge, attentiveness, and friendliness. Multiple reviews highlight the staff’s ability to find the right balance of professionalism and fun, especially when working with children. As one reviewer summarized, “from the outset, the team was brilliant at finding the right balance between professional and safe, and having fun.” Safety is not overlooked—the small group sizes and attentive instructors ensure everyone feels secure and supported, which is critical for first-timers.

Unique and Authentic Features

What truly sets this experience apart is its environmental ethos. Helping to clean the seabed while exploring the underwater world makes it feel less like a typical tourist activity and more like a chance to give back and protect. The “Mission Deep Blue” certificate serves as proof of your contribution, making this experience even more meaningful.

Another appealing aspect is how many reviewers emphasize the magnetic marine life and the beautiful clarity of the water, with one noting Sesimbra as a “hidden gem.” The combination of spectacular underwater views and the chance to contribute positively to marine health makes it a standout outing for eco-conscious travelers.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is ideal for absolute beginners, families, and eco-minded travelers. If you’ve never snorkeled or been in open water before, you’ll appreciate the detailed instructions and close supervision. It’s also perfect for those wanting to try diving without the pressure of certification or more demanding courses. The program’s flexibility means you can just dip your toes into the diving world, but still leave with a newfound respect for the ocean.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: This activity is popular, booked 12 days ahead on average, so plan accordingly.
• Arrive prepared: Since gear is included, focus on bringing sun protection and a towel for after.
• Be flexible with weather: Since outdoor water activities depend on good conditions, stay aware of local weather reports.
• Physical readiness: You need only moderate fitness—this isn’t an intense workout but does require comfort in water.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Eco – Try Dive in Sesimbra offers a rare combination of adventure, education, and environmental awareness. It’s a perfect activity for those looking to get a safe, guided glimpse into the underwater world while actively supporting marine conservation. The professionalism of the guides, the stunning marine environment, and the chance to receive a meaningful certificate make it a very good value for the price.

If you’re curious about exploring the ocean with a light touch of eco-awareness, this activity is likely to leave you not just with memories of colorful fish and clear waters but with a sense of purpose and connection to nature. It’s a small step into an underwater world that feels much bigger—and more important—than it looks from above.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention booking for children and the staff being very attentive. It’s ideal for families with kids who are comfortable in water and eager for a safe, guided introduction.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all scuba equipment needed for the activity, but it does not include lunch. The activity lasts about four hours, starting at 2:30 pm.

How many people are in each group?
Maximum group size is 15 travelers, with one instructor per two participants—ensuring personalized guidance.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours will not be refunded.

Do I need any prior experience or certification?
No, this is designed as an introductory experience, perfect for beginners with no prior certification.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, and possibly a snack if desired; all scuba gear is provided. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins and ends at the Anthia Diving Center in Sesimbra, near public transportation options for easy access.

Is weather a concern?
Yes, outdoor water activities depend on favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Whether you’re looking to try scuba for the first time, support marine conservation, or simply enjoy Sesimbra’s crystal-clear waters, the Eco – Try Dive program is a memorable and meaningful choice. It combines professional guiding, environmental contribution, and a stunning underwater setting—all at a reasonable price. Perfect for those seeking a new adventure with heart and purpose.