Tenerife: Beginners Scuba Dive Experience in Turtle Area

Tenerife: Beginners Scuba Dive Experience in Turtle Area – A Practical Look at an Easy, Authentic Underwater Adventure

When I look at this Tenerife beginner’s scuba experience, what immediately jumps out is its balance of accessibility and genuine marine encounters. With a price tag of just $85 per person for about three hours, you get a taste of what it’s like to breathe underwater, along with the chance to see some of Tenerife’s most fascinating sea life—including turtles—without needing prior experience. The experience is hosted at the well-rated **PADI 5*** Travel Sub Dive Center, which adds a layer of reassurance for first-timers.

Two aspects I really appreciate are the small group size—limiting to only 10 participants—which means more personalized guidance and safety—and the variety of activities packed into just three hours, including a boat trip, a beginner’s dive, and snorkeling. Plus, the chance to see Atlantic turtles and rays is a real highlight. That said, a potential consideration is that turtle sightings are not guaranteed, since these are wild animals, though reviews suggest a high likelihood of spotting them.

One thing to note is that while the experience offers fantastic value, it’s primarily geared toward those who want a safe, fun introduction to the underwater world. If you’re after a more extensive course or diving deeper than 12 meters, you’d need to look elsewhere. But for a first-timer or family wanting a memorable ocean outing, this offers a good mix of excitement, education, and relaxed fun.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Accessible for Beginners: No prior experience needed; calm, patient instructors guide you through every step.
• Marine Life Encounters: Likely to see turtles, fish, and rays, with a good chance of witnessing wildlife in their natural environment.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Wetsuits, fins, masks, and insurance are included, simplifying what you need to bring.
• Beautiful Setting: The waters off Costa Adeje are renowned for clarity and oceanic scenery, making the views impressive even from the boat.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Small Groups & Multilingual Guides: Limited to 10 participants, with guides speaking several languages, including English, Italian, Spanish, French, and Russian.

Exploring the Experience

The tour kicks off at the Travel Sub Dive Center in Costa Adeje, conveniently located near the pier and with clear instructions to find the reception at the Escuela Nautica building. The safety briefing is about 30 minutes, and from reviews, it’s clear that the team emphasizes safety without sacrificing fun. Guides such as Romana and Ruben receive high praise for their patience, friendliness, and professionalism, which makes all the difference when you’re trying something new in the water.

Once everyone is comfortable, you board a speedboat for a quick 15-minute ride to the first diving spot. The boat ride itself offers a scenic view of Tenerife’s coastline and Atlantic waters—an experience in its own right. The sea breeze, salty spray, and panoramic vistas make the journey memorable before even entering the water.

Next, you’ll get about 25 minutes underwater, swimming at a maximum depth of 12 meters under the watchful eye of your instructor. Based on reviews, the instructors go out of their way to ensure everyone feels safe and confident, even if you’re nervous or unsure about breathing underwater. Many reviewers, including first-timers, mention that their guides like Tobi and Ruben made all the difference, keeping things relaxed and fun.

The snorkeling portion follows, which is just as rewarding. Tenerife’s waters are famous for their clarity and vibrant marine life. You can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, maybe even some rays or octopuses, depending on the day. The reviews show that guides are attentive in pointing out interesting creatures and taking photos, although spotty turtle sightings shouldn’t be a disappointment—they are wild animals after all.

The boat then returns to the dock, where you can reflect on your aquatic adventure, often with a new appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants. It’s a well-rounded experience designed not just to teach but to inspire confidence and curiosity.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

Start at the Dive Center: The team at the Travel Sub Dive Center offers a thorough safety briefing and gets everyone suited up, often with a friendly, welcoming attitude. Several reviews highlight the helpfulness of staff like Elena and Romana, who go above and beyond to make beginners comfortable.

Boat Trip to the Dive Site: The 15-minute speedboat ride is not just transportation—it’s a scenic introduction to Tenerife’s coastline, with a salty breeze and stunning views. Many say the boat ride makes the whole trip feel like a mini adventure.

Scuba Diving (25 minutes): This is where you get to breathe underwater with your instructor, reaching depths up to 12 meters. The instructors, often praised for their patience, explain the basics clearly and step-by-step, ensuring no one feels lost or overwhelmed. First-time divers often comment on how safe and supported they felt, even if they’re not confident swimmers or are nervous about the depth.

Snorkeling Safari: After the dive, you’ll snorkel in the same waters, exploring marine life at your own pace. Guides are attentive, pointing out interesting creatures and helping less confident swimmers feel at ease. Many reviews mention the photos taken by guides as a bonus, capturing the moment for you to remember.

Return Voyage: The boat ride back offers another chance to enjoy Tenerife’s dramatic coast and, if you’re lucky, spot dolphins or whales. While not guaranteed, some reviews mention seeing dolphins on the way back, adding a fun surprise.

Who This Tour Is For

This experience is perfect for first-timers and families, especially those who want a gentle introduction to the underwater world without the pressure of a full certification course. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a quick, manageable adventure that combines boat rides, light diving, and snorkeling—all in a compact, well-organized package.

It’s suitable for those who don’t want to snorkel or dive but still wish to enjoy the ocean views and see Tenerife’s marine environment from the surface. However, it’s not designed for people who want a deep or prolonged dive experience or those with medical conditions precluding water activities.

Price and Value: What You Get for $85

At $85, this tour offers an impressive value considering the inclusions: boat trip, all equipment, insurance, and guided snorkeling and diving. It’s a focused, well-organized activity that caters to beginners, ensuring safety and fun are at the forefront. Many reviewers emphasize the professionalism of the guides and the quality of instructions, which greatly enhances the value of the experience.

While some may wish for a second dive, the 25-minute underwater experience is plenty for a first-timer, leaving you with memories and new skills. The opportunity to see marine life like turtles, rays, and colorful fish makes it a memorable highlight of any Tenerife trip.

Who Should Avoid This Tour

Those with significant medical conditions, pregnant women, children under 8, or individuals over 95 should consider other options, as safety regulations and medical advisories are in place. It’s also worth noting that if you’re looking for guaranteed turtle sightings, be prepared for some unpredictability—these are wild animals, after all.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife beginner’s scuba and snorkeling experience combines friendly guides, stunning ocean vistas, and a good dose of marine life, all at an accessible price point. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the underwater realm and possibly a new hobby. The small group size and multilingual guides make it more personal and accommodating, even for nervous first-timers.

If you’re someone who’s curious about the ocean, loves wildlife, or just wants a unique experience in Tenerife’s waters, this tour offers great value and a friendly, supportive atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to dip your toes into the world of scuba or simply enjoy a scenic ocean adventure with the possibility of encountering the island’s famous turtles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for people who cannot swim?
While you don’t need to be a confident swimmer, you should be comfortable in the water and wearing a wetsuit. The guides are very patient and helpful, and even non-swimmers have enjoyed the experience when with supportive instructors.

What is included in the price?
All equipment (wetsuit, fins, mask), boat trip to the site, guided snorkeling, one instructor per two participants, full insurance, and water are included in the $85 fee.

Can I see turtles during the tour?
Turtle sightings are not 100% guaranteed since they are wild animals, but based on reviews, you have about a 95% chance of seeing them in this area.

How long is the underwater portion?
You will spend approximately 25 minutes underwater, reaching a maximum depth of 12 meters under the supervision of your instructor.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be between 8 and 17 years old to join, and minors need to be supervised by an adult. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, flip-flops, and your passport or ID if you’re a minor. Wetsuits are provided, and towels are not included.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is designed to be wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore Tenerife’s marine life safely and confidently, perfect for those eager to get a taste of what’s beneath the waves without committing to a full certification. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and a focus on safety, it’s a memorable addition to any island itinerary.