Lanzarote: SSI Open Water Diver Course

Planning to add a new skill to your travel repertoire? If scuba diving has ever piqued your interest, the Lanzarote SSI Open Water Diver course offers a fantastic introduction, especially if you’re eager to explore the underwater beauty of the Canary Islands. Over three days, you’ll learn the essentials of diving, get comfortable with your gear, and enjoy four open water dives—all while soaking in Lanzarote’s striking volcanic landscapes from a unique perspective.

One of the things we love about this experience is how accessible it is for beginners; the course is designed to give you a solid foundation and the confidence to explore safely. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures personalized attention, which is especially valuable for first-timers. However, a possible consideration is that it requires swimming skills and a minimum of two participants to run, so it’s not ideal for solo travelers who prefer more flexibility or those who might be nervous about watersports.

This course suits travelers who are curious about the underwater world, want a rewarding experience during their Lanzarote trip, or are considering taking their diving journey further. Whether you’re a non-swimmer willing to give it a try or someone with some aquatic experience, this program offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Learn to dive with a certified instructor in a safe, controlled environment.
• Includes four open water dives, providing ample practice and confidence-building.
• All equipment and insurance included, simplifying the planning process.
• Small group setting ensures personalized guidance.
• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later.
• Suitable for beginners with swimming skills, but not for non-swimmers or those with certain medical conditions.

An Honest Breakdown of Lanzarote’s SSI Open Water Diver Course

Location and Accessibility

Set in the heart of Playa Blanca, the course’s central location makes it easy to reach from most accommodations around Lanzarote. The meeting point is straightforward, cutting down on travel stress and allowing you to focus on the experience ahead. The region’s clear, warm waters and abundant marine life make Lanzarote an excellent spot for diving newcomers, which adds a layer of excitement to the learning process.

The Itinerary and Course Structure

Over three days, you’ll be guided by multilingual instructors who speak English, Spanish, Catalan, Italian, and French—an appealing feature for international travelers. The course begins with theoretical lessons where you’ll learn about diving equipment, safety protocols, and underwater communication. These sessions can be conducted in the classroom or at the dive center, providing some flexibility depending on your learning style.

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you’ll move into confined water practice—possibly in a shallow pool or calm bay—where you can get familiar with your gear and practice essential skills like clearing your mask and regulator, regulator recovery, and buoyancy control. These foundational skills are crucial for feeling confident and safe during open water diving.

The Four Open Water Dives

Following the classroom sessions, the real adventure begins. The course includes four dives in Lanzarote’s open waters, typically at dive sites where the visibility is high, and currents are manageable for beginners. Past participants have noted that the dives allow you to see volcanic formations and marine life, making the underwater environment truly captivating.

Each dive is an opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, with instructors providing close supervision and helpful feedback. One reviewer highlighted that “the instructor made me feel safe and confident, even on my first open water experience.” The dives are structured to ensure you gain practical skills, like equalizing, buoyancy control, and safe ascent, which are essential for certification.

Equipment and Safety

All necessary diving gear—mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator, and buoyancy control device—is included. This means you won’t need to worry about transporting or renting equipment independently, which adds to the convenience and peace of mind. Plus, insurance is included, ensuring peace of mind throughout the course.

The instructors are fluent in multiple languages, which helps bridge any communication gaps. We noted that the small group size (max four participants) contributes to a more personalized experience, allowing instructors to focus on individual needs and pace.

Learning Outcomes and Certification

By the end of the three days, you’ll have completed all theory and practical components required for the SSI Open Water Diver certification. Post-course, you’ll be authorized to dive to a maximum depth of 18 meters, opening up a new world of exploration. The certification is recognized internationally, making it a worthwhile investment if you plan to continue diving in other locations.

What Past Participants Say

Many reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. One diver shared, “the whole process was well-organized and fun, and I felt supported every step of the way.” Others appreciated the inclusion of water and snacks, noting that it helped keep energy levels high during the busy days.

Some mention that the course is quite intensive, but this is typical for safety reasons and to ensure everyone feels confident. The emphasis on safety and proper technique is clear, and the instructors’ expertise shines through.

The Cost and What You Get

At $561 per person, the course is priced competitively considering it includes all necessary equipment, insurance, water, snacks, and instruction in multiple languages. When you compare this to the cost of independent diving trips or courses in other destinations, the value becomes clear—especially for beginners eager to turn a pastime into a certified skill.

Who Will Love This Course?

This program is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a structured, safe introduction to scuba diving. It’s ideal if you’re looking to tick off diving certification during your Lanzarote holiday without committing to a full diving holiday or expensive courses abroad. The course caters well to those who appreciate small-group attention and enjoy learning in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Additional Notes

• What to bring: Hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, your diving certification (if you have one), and your dive log.
• Not suitable for: Non-swimmers or individuals with certain medical conditions, especially heart problems.
• Pre-requisites: Swimming skills are required, and you should inform the instructor of any medical conditions beforehand.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, allowing you to keep your travel plans flexible.

The Sum Up

The Lanzarote SSI Open Water Diver course offers a practical, engaging, and well-organized way to take your first steps into the underwater world. With knowledgeable guides, inclusive equipment, and a focus on safety, it provides genuine value for first-time divers or travelers looking to expand their skills. The small group setup ensures personalized attention, making it an ideal choice for those who want a relaxed yet professional learning environment.

This course is best suited for curious travelers who want to add a certification to their travel experience, enjoy Lanzarote’s stunning underwater scenery, and are comfortable with swimming. It’s an excellent way to combine adventure, education, and the unique beauty of the Canary Islands into a memorable three-day experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The $561 fee covers all necessary diving equipment, insurance, water, snacks, and instruction in multiple languages, providing a seamless experience.

How long does the course last?
The course runs for three days, with starting times depending on availability. It includes theoretical lessons, confined water skills, and four open water dives.

Is prior diving experience necessary?
No previous experience is required, but swimming skills are essential for participation.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, the booking option allows you to reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in your travel planning.

What is the maximum depth I can dive after certification?
You’ll be certified to dive up to 18 meters deep, which is suitable for exploring most dive sites safely.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
No, non-swimmers are not recommended, as swimming skills are a prerequisite.

What languages are the instructors fluent in?
Instructors speak English, Spanish, Catalan, Italian, and French.

Are there any health restrictions?
This activity is not suitable for people with heart problems or certain medical conditions; it’s best to consult your doctor beforehand.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, your diving certification if you have one, and your dive log.

What if I want to continue diving after this course?
The certification earned here is recognized internationally, paving the way for further diving adventures worldwide.

This comprehensive 3-day Lanzarote SSI Open Water Diver course is a perfect blend of learning, fun, and adventure, making it an excellent addition to your Canary Islands journey.