Dubrovnik: 1-Day Diving Package

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Underwater Charm: A 1-Day Diving Package Review

If you’re considering adding a splash of adventure to your Dubrovnik trip, the 1-Day Diving Package offered by Blue Planet Diving Center could be a fantastic choice. This experience promises two guided dives in some of the most captivating underwater sites in the southern Adriatic, known for crystal-clear waters and lively marine life. While we haven’t personally strapped on fins (yet), reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-organized, authentic dive for both beginners and experienced divers alike.

What really draws us to this package is the focus on small-group experiences—just 5-6 divers per instructor—making it a more personalized adventure, unlike larger, more rushed tours. Plus, exploring sites like caves, caverns, and wrecks sounds genuinely exciting. One potential downside is that food isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat afterward. This tour seems perfect for travelers who want to combine the natural beauty of Dubrovnik’s waters with a professional, friendly guiding team.

This tour would suit certified divers craving a varied underwater landscape or adventurers eager to try scuba for the first time if they meet the prerequisites. If you love marine exploration, want small-group intimacy, and value good equipment and knowledgeable guides, this experience should be high on your list.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and better safety.
• Multiple dive sites from caves to wrecks make for a varied underwater experience.
• Expert multilingual guides help enhance understanding and safety.
• Flexible scheduling with morning and afternoon options fits different itineraries.
• Equipment included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear.
• Price point offers good value for two guided dives in renowned sites.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect on Your Dive Day in Dubrovnik

The day starts at the Blue Planet Diving Center, conveniently located on the first floor of the Dubrovnik Palace hotel. Check-in begins around 09:00-09:30, where you’ll meet your instructor and get fitted with your equipment. This initial step is crucial—expect a thorough briefing about the day’s plan, safety measures, and the specific sites you’ll visit, whether from shore or boat.

Morning Dive:
The morning session kicks off around 10:00, with a quick briefing and equipment check. The first dive typically lasts about 2.5 hours, during which you’ll explore either from shore or a boat, depending on the site. Sites like Little Africa or Maros Cave could be on your list—famous for caves, rocks, walls, and lakes, with depths ranging from 3 to 40 meters. The review mentions that sites are chosen based on weather, experience levels, and preferences, so each day offers a tailored experience.

After your first dive, you’ll have a two-hour break to relax, enjoy lunch, or soak in the scenery at the dive center’s terrace. As one reviewer noted, this is a great spot to unwind, with some mentioning access to a hotel pool if you’re staying nearby.

Afternoon Dive:
The second dive starts around 14:30 and lasts approximately 2.5 hours. The sites for the afternoon are often from boat trips to locations like Jabuka Island or Bobara Island, known for caves and walls at shallower depths (0-12 meters). These sites are perfect for exploring marine life and underwater formations, whether you’re into cave systems, wrecks, or just the thrill of new scenery.

Post-Dive:
The tour concludes back at the dive center around 16:00. For those who want to stay longer, the staff are friendly and helpful, often guiding you through equipment care or sharing tips about local diving spots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package price of $149 per person is quite reasonable considering the professional instruction, all diving equipment, and the small-group setting. What’s great is that the equipment is provided, so no need to rent or bring your own gear unless you prefer to. The tour is suitable for certified divers and those who might need a Check Dive if they haven’t dived for over two years—though this isn’t included in the price and requires pre-arrangement.

The main thing not included is food and beverages—so bringing snacks or planning your meal after the tour is recommended. The meeting point is straightforward at the Blue Planet Diving Center, which is easy to find within the Dubrovnik Palace hotel complex.

The Diving Sites: What Makes Them Special?

Sites like Little Africa and Maros Cave stand out for their caves, caverns, and rugged walls, offering divers a chance to see marine life in natural formations. The sites are selected daily based on weather and diver experience, which means you’ll get the best possible conditions. The depth range from 3 to 40 meters allows for exploration of both shallow and more advanced sites, providing a good balance for different skill levels.

One reviewer mentioned the visibility as excellent, and despite the water being cold—even with a 5mm wetsuit—many were able to enjoy their dives comfortably. This suggests that the water temperature, while cool, doesn’t detract too much from the experience, especially if you’re prepared with good wetsuits.

Boat trips take explorers to wrecks like the Taranto shipwreck or caves such as Sv. Andrija, depending on conditions. These wrecks and caves are not only visually interesting but also provide habitats for diverse marine species, making each dive a little adventure.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Guides like Mark and Bernard receive high praise for their attentiveness and knowledge. One reviewer raved about Mark as a “great scuba master”, while others appreciated Bernard’s local expertise and careful management of weights and diver safety. The guides’ multilingual skills (English, German, Italian, Swedish) ensure clear communication, regardless of your native language.

Many reviewers highlighted the considerate nature of guides, especially when managing different experience levels. The small group size allows guides to closely monitor each diver, giving personalized attention and security.

The Value of This Experience

At $149, this package offers excellent value for two guided dives in Dubrovnik’s renowned underwater spots. Compared to other activities in the city, this is an immersive, active experience that combines education and adventure. The inclusion of equipment and small-group guidance enhances the value further, making it accessible for certified divers and confident beginners willing to meet the prerequisites.

The timing offers flexibility, with options for morning or afternoon sessions. The organized nature and detailed briefing ensure that even first-timers will feel prepared and safe, which many reviewers appreciated.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for certified divers wanting to explore Dubrovnik’s underwater sites, especially those interested in caves, walls, and wrecks. It’s equally suited for adventurous newcomers who meet the experience requirements and want a guided, safe introduction to diving. The small-group setup is perfect for travelers seeking personalized attention and a less crowded, more intimate diving environment.

It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy combining underwater exploration with relaxing breaks, given the beautiful terrace at the dive center and options to extend the experience with local hotel amenities.

Final Thoughts

This 1-Day Diving Package in Dubrovnik hits a sweet spot for adventure lovers and underwater explorers. With knowledgeable guides, carefully chosen sites, and flexible scheduling, it offers a genuine opportunity to experience the vibrant marine life, caves, and wrecks that make the southern Adriatic special. The small-group approach means you’ll get a more personalized, safe, and enjoyable experience—perfect for anyone who values quality over quantity.

While food isn’t included, the overall organization, equipment quality, and diversity of sites make this a worthwhile addition to your Dubrovnik itinerary. Whether you’re a certified diver or an eager beginner, you’ll come away with stories and sights to remember.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, certification is required unless you plan to do a Check Dive beforehand. The tour accommodates certified divers and those who meet experience prerequisites, like at least 30 dives and AOWD level for certain sites.

What if I haven’t dived in over two years?
You’ll need a Check Dive before doing any regular dives. This check isn't included in the price but can be arranged separately.

How long are the dives?
Each dive lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving plenty of time to explore the sites thoroughly.

Are the sites suitable for all experience levels?
Sites are selected based on your experience, with options ranging from shallow caves to deeper wrecks. The small-group guidance helps ensure safety and comfort.

Is food included in the package?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to eat during the break.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
Meet at the Blue Planet Diving Center, located within the Dubrovnik Palace hotel complex on the first floor.

What equipment is provided?
The tour includes all necessary diving equipment, so you can focus on enjoying your dives.

Can I book this tour last minute or change plans?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, and cancellations are possible if made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this Dubrovnik diving experience offers a fantastic combination of adventure, expert guidance, and stunning underwater scenery. Ideal for those seeking a personalized, safe, and memorable underwater journey—it's an experience that enriches your trip and leaves you with lasting memories of Croatia’s marine wonders.