Your first breath underwater starts here. The beginner scuba session runs right off Playa Chica in a protected bay, so you ease in from the beach with an instructor at your shoulder. I like that the plan stays controlled, with 6 meters as the max depth for the outing.

I also like that you’re not just put in gear and sent off—there’s a short explanation, then you practice breathing and a few basics before going deeper. The only real catch is you’ll need a medical questionnaire before you start, and the day depends on decent weather.

Key Things That Matter Most

• Playa Chica, right by the scuba center: you get in from the beach in a protected bay, without complicated logistics.
• 15-minute pre-water briefing: you get the exact info you need before gear goes on.
• Small group, max 10: more attention for first-timers when you’re learning breathing and control.
• Shallow skills first: you’ll spend time in the shallows before gradually going deeper.
• Max 6 meters: a gentle depth cap for a calm, beginner-friendly profile.
• Photos on the water, plus an add-on: you’ll get digital shots, with extra options if you want them.

Playa Chica Start: Scuba Training Off a Protected Bay

This outing is built for your first time. You start at Playa Chica in front of the scuba center, in a protected bay that’s calmer than open water. That matters because it helps you focus on breathing, body position, and what the gear feels like, not on fighting rougher waves.

You’ll go in from the beach, which keeps things straightforward. No long boat rides, no scrambling from one platform to another—just gear up, then step into the water with your instructor.

The plan also keeps the experience “layered.” You don’t jump straight to deeper water. Instead, you begin in the shallows, take your time getting comfortable, and then gradually work toward a maximum of 6 meters. For most beginners, that pacing makes the whole thing feel doable.

One nice detail: it’s a bay setting, so the underwater world in front of you stays close and visible. You can pay attention to fish and little movements without the stress of far-ranging conditions.

The 15-Minute Briefing That Sets You Up for Success

Before you get wet, you get about 15 minutes of instruction. It’s not a long lecture. It’s the practical stuff you need so you know what to do once you’re in the water.

Here’s why I think that briefing is a big deal: scuba gear changes how everything feels. Your breathing rhythm, hearing, and body motion all feel different once you’re underwater. If you’re still figuring out basics while you’re also trying to stay calm, it gets harder than it needs to be.

So the goal of that short explanation is to speed up your confidence. You’ll learn what to expect, how skills will be taught, and how the instructor will guide you as you move from shallow to deeper water.

If you’re the type who gets nervous about the unknown, this is a smart format. A quick setup on land lowers the mental load once you’re in the water and wearing a tank.

Wetsuit, Full Equipment, and Getting Comfortable Fast

After the briefing, you’ll put on a wetsuit and the full scuba equipment. The equipment part is important for value, because it’s included in the price. You’re not hunting down rentals or paying extra for core gear.

In the water, the instructor stays close as you get used to breathing with the regulator and adjusting your body position. That’s the moment many first-timers find odd—your breathing becomes the center of attention. The instructor’s job is to make that feel normal quickly.

You’ll also learn by doing a few skills in the shallows. Instead of feeling like you’re just watching others, you’ll actively practice what you need for a smooth, controlled underwater session.

And because the max depth is kept low, your brain isn’t trying to solve advanced conditions. That helps you concentrate on your own control and comfort.

Shallow-Water Skills: Breathing Practice and Calm Confidence

The program is designed so you don’t start out rushing. You spend time in the shallow area to get used to the basics—especially breathing.

This part is where the outing earns its beginner rating. You’ll practice what you need while water depth is manageable and the bottom is closer if you need reassurance. That setup reduces panic and lets you build muscle memory the right way.

A shallow start also helps with the sensation people talk about—weightlessness and that strange, quiet feeling underwater. It’s not “thrilling chaos.” It’s more like your body floats and your movements slow down. If you’ve ever wanted a calmer kind of adventure, that moment is it.

During this stage, your instructor will guide the skills and keep an eye on your comfort. It’s also when you’ll figure out how your gear settles on you and how to move without kicking too hard.

If you’re worried about being awkward or slow, this is the time to be exactly that. The shallows are where you learn at your pace, and the instructor makes sure you can do the basics safely before you go deeper.

Going to 6 Meters Max: Fish, Bay Views, and Photo Time

After the shallow practice, the outing continues in the bay and gradually goes deeper, up to 6 meters. That depth cap is a huge comfort factor. It keeps the session approachable while still giving you real underwater viewing.

This is where you get to enjoy the main payoff: you’ll see lots of fish around the area. Because the bay is protected and you’re staying relatively close to shore, your underwater experience stays focused and easy to follow.

You’re also given time for photos. The plan includes photos taken during the outing—about 30 digital pictures. That’s a nice touch for a first-timer, since you might not have the camera-ready mindset while learning breathing and basic control.

One practical note: the photos are described as digital pictures included in the experience, but underwater photos are also listed as not included with a 20 Euro option. That can mean there’s an extra step if you want the photos as a paid set or download. Either way, plan to decide on photos on the day, not later, so you don’t get surprised.

If you want to travel lighter, this works. You can focus on learning and let someone else handle the photo capture.

Price and What You’re Really Buying for $89.01

At $89.01 per person, this isn’t a budget “wander in and snorkel” activity. It’s a guided beginner scuba session with full equipment provided, run from shore, and capped at a maximum of 10 people.

So where does the value come from?

You’re paying for:

• a real instructor-led introduction (briefing plus in-water guidance)
• full scuba equipment included
• a structured shallow-to-6-meter plan
• onboard attention while you practice breathing and basic skills
• underwater digital photos taken during the session (with extra photo costs possibly applying)

For beginners, instruction and pacing matter more than fancy extras. A cheaper option that skips skills time can leave you stressed and rushing. Here, you get practice first and then exploration second, which is the smarter order.

Also, pickup is listed as offered. If you’re staying in Puerto del Carmen, that can cut hassle, and hassle has a way of draining vacation energy faster than you expect.

The booking pattern is also a clue: it’s commonly booked about 14 days in advance, so if you’re traveling in peak season, give yourself time to lock in a spot.

Timing, Pickup, and How the 2 Hours Will Feel

The outing runs for about 2 hours. That’s a good length for a first scuba experience. Long enough to learn basics and see fish, short enough that you won’t feel wiped out for the rest of your day.

It starts at 12:00 pm, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. That makes planning easy: you can treat the afternoon as open time once you’re done.

If you can use pickup, take it. The meeting point is at Paseo de la Barilla, 4, 35510 Puerto del Carmen, near public transportation. Still, pickup is one less thing to coordinate while you’re getting ready to gear up.

A practical expectation: you’ll spend time on land for wetsuit and equipment, then more time in the water doing shallow practice and gradually going deeper. By the time you hit the fish and photo part, you’ll likely feel far more comfortable than you did when you first stepped in.

That’s the secret formula of good beginner instruction: reduce uncertainty early, and the payoff lands later when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Who Should Book This Beginner Scuba Session

This is best for you if you want a guided introduction to underwater life without going too far or too deep. The max depth (6 meters), the protected bay setting, and the shallow skills first approach are all built around beginner comfort.

It also fits well if you like structure. Some people love surprise travel. This experience is more “learn, practice, then enjoy,” and that’s a plus when you’re trying scuba for the first time.

You should also consider it if you’re traveling with limited time. Two hours is efficient, and starting from Playa Chica means you’re not spending half a day relocating.

If you’re medical-questionnaire sensitive, read that requirement carefully before booking. You’ll need to fill out a medical questionnaire to check you’re fit to dive, and that can be a deal-breaker for some people.

And if you care a lot about underwater photography, be aware there’s a 20 Euro photo option listed. You might get digital shots taken, but pricing for how you receive them may cost extra, so decide based on what you want to keep.

Instructor Marta Soriano and the Small-Group Feel

One of the standout signals from the feedback is praise for the instructor experience—especially Marta Soriano. In one five-star note, she’s credited with making the outing unforgettable and truly recommendable.

That kind of credit matters because the instructor is the difference between “you survived” and “you felt confident.” In a beginner program, you want someone who can explain clearly and adjust to your pace in the water.

This session also keeps the group small, up to 10 travelers. That usually translates to better attention when you’re learning breathing control and basic skills. You’re not just another body in the water. You’re learning with coaching.

If you’re the nervous type, small groups can be calming too. Everyone is a beginner here, and the instructor can give you the kind of help that makes the session feel safe rather than rushed.

Should You Book This Off Playa Chica?

If you’re considering your first scuba experience in Lanzarote, this is a strong choice—especially for the controlled depth, shore-based start, and structured shallow-to-6-meter progression. You’ll get a real instructor-led introduction, full equipment included, and an easy-to-handle timeframe that doesn’t swallow your entire day.

I’d book it if you want:

• a beginner-friendly plan with shallow skills first
• access from Playa Chica in a protected bay
• a small group experience
• fish viewing with simple photo coverage during the session

I’d pause if:

• you’re not comfortable with a required medical questionnaire
• you’re traveling at a time where weather might be unpredictable for you
• you’d be disappointed if the final photo package costs extra (the 20 Euro option is listed)

FAQ

Where does the experience start?

It starts at Safari Diving Lanzarote S.L., Paseo de la Barilla, 4, 35510 Puerto del Carmen, Las Palmas, Spain.

What time does the session begin?

The start time is 12:00 pm.

How long is the beginner session?

The duration is about 2 hours.

Is pickup available?

Yes, pickup is offered.

Is scuba equipment included?

Yes. Use of scuba equipment is included.

Are underwater photos included?

Underwater photos of your first scuba session are not included, and the listed cost is 20 Euro.

Do I need to complete anything before I can participate?

Yes. Before you start, you’ll need to fill out a medical questionnaire to check that you are fit to dive.

What is the maximum group size?

The experience has a maximum of 10 travelers.

What if the activity is canceled due to poor weather?

If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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