Playa Chica: Try Dive with Instructor

Trying something new always comes with a mix of excitement and a dash of apprehension, especially when it involves the ocean’s depths. This Try Dive experience in Playa Chica, located in the Canary Islands of Spain, offers a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving that’s ideal for those who’ve never tried before. For just $106 per group (up to four people), you get two hours of personalized instruction, equipment, and a chance to see what the underwater world is all about.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it is. From the moment you arrive at the small white building on the beach, you’re greeted by friendly guides who make the process straightforward. The fact that it’s limited to small groups means you’ll enjoy more personalized attention, which can be a real boost if you’re slightly nervous or just eager to get comfortable.

A potential consideration is that this is primarily a shallow, beginner-level experience, with a maximum depth of 6 meters. It’s perfect for new divers, but if you’re already experienced or looking for a more extensive underwater exploration, this might feel a bit limited.

This tour suits travelers who want to dip their toes into scuba diving without a huge commitment—ideal for families, first-timers, or those with a tentative interest in the underwater world. It’s also a good choice if you’re exploring Puerto del Carmen and want an activity that’s both fun and safe with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Beginner Friendly: Designed for first-time divers with a focus on safety and comfort.
• Personalized Attention: Small group size (up to 4) enhances the learning experience.
• Clear Instructions: Includes a thorough briefing and equipment explanation.
• Beautiful Location: Playa Chica offers a protected bay, perfect for calm, shallow waters.
• Experienced Guides: Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and more.
• Affordable and Efficient: At just two hours and $106, it offers great value for a memorable experience.

What to Expect from Your Playa Chica Try Dive

Arriving at the dive center right on Playa Chica beach, you’ll find a small, friendly setup marked by a simple white building with the Safari Diving logo. This is where your adventure begins. The staff, known for their professionalism and approachable manner, will ask you to complete a brief medical form. If you answer “yes” to certain questions, you might need a medical statement from a doctor—so it’s a good idea to be prepared.

Once cleared, you’ll receive a detailed briefing on the equipment—think masks, fins, wetsuits, and regulators—and how to use everything safely. The instructors are fluent in multiple languages, ensuring clear communication. Many guests mention the guides’ knowledgeable and friendly approach, which helps reduce nerves and builds confidence.

The next step is heading to the shallow bay, just a few steps from the center. Here, you’ll get familiar with breathing techniques and how to handle your gear at the surface. The environment in Playa Chica is ideal: calm, clear, and protected, meaning you won’t face strong currents or waves. It’s a gentle environment for learning and feeling at ease underwater.

As you gradually descend with your instructor, you’ll stay within a maximum depth of 6 meters, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the sights at a comfortable depth. Guests have described this as “a feeling of weightlessness,” which is often the highlight of beginners’ first underwater experience. Expect to see marine life, vibrant coral, and perhaps even small fish swimming around you.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the Dive Center: On arrival, expect a warm welcome from the Safari Diving team, who will assist with paperwork, safety instructions, and gear fitting. The briefing covers key safety points, breathing techniques, and what to expect during the dive.

Surface Practice: Before heading underwater, you’ll practice breathing and equalizing in shallow water. This phase is crucial for building confidence and understanding how your gear functions.

Underwater Exploration: Guided by your instructor, you’ll descend into the shallow bay, gradually going deeper at your own pace. The maximum depth of 6 meters ensures you’re never overwhelmed, making this a great first experience.

Underwater Observation: Many reviews mention how stunning the underwater life is, even at these shallow depths. Small fish, colorful corals, and interesting rocks are common sights, and the calm waters make for excellent visibility.

Surface Return: After your underwater time, you’ll return to the surface, where you can relax and reflect on what you’ve experienced. The entire process takes around two hours, giving ample time for a safe, enjoyable introduction.

The Value of the Experience

For $106, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to scuba diving, including equipment, instruction, and guided underwater time. Considering the small group size enhances the experience, as you’ll have more direct interaction with your instructor—often a key factor for first-timers. The included equipment is modern and well-maintained, and the guides are praised for their professionalism and patience.

While photos are not included in the package, many guests mention bringing their own waterproof cameras or phones to capture the moment. It’s worth noting that touching marine life is discouraged, which is a good reminder to respect the environment while enjoying the sights.

In terms of timing, the two-hour duration is efficient but enough to leave you with a genuine sense of achievement. The ease of location—just steps from the beach—means no complicated logistics or transportation hassles.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This is an ideal activity for beginners, families with kids (18+), or anyone curious about what lies beneath the surface without the pressure of a full certification course. It’s perfect for travelers exploring Puerto del Carmen or nearby areas who want a safe, guided introduction to the underwater world.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer small group settings, valuing personalized attention and safety. If you’re nervous about the unknown or unsure whether you’ll enjoy diving, this experience offers a gentle, guided first step.

The Sum Up

Choosing the Playa Chica Try Dive with Safari Diving provides a safe, well-organized, and genuinely enjoyable introduction to scuba diving. The small group approach, combined with professional guides and a calm, beautiful location, makes it a top pick for first-timers. You’ll get a taste of the underwater world without feeling overwhelmed—perfect for building confidence and creating memorable moments.

While it’s a short experience, the quality of instruction and the stunning setting ensure it’s worth every penny. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this activity offers a low-pressure, high-enjoyment way to see another side of the Canary Islands.

If you’re considering trying scuba for the first time, this tour strikes a solid balance between safety, fun, and value. It’s a wonderful way to create a story you’ll be excited to tell long after you’ve left Playa Chica.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed specifically for first-time divers, with comprehensive briefings and shallow water conditions to help you get comfortable.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, including briefing, equipment fitting, and the underwater session.

Are there age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the activity generally suits adults or older teenagers (18+), especially since touching marine life is discouraged for safety and environmental reasons.

Do I need any prior experience or certification?
No prior certification is needed, as this is a guided try dive, not a certification course.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Dutch, and Polish.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickups. You’ll meet directly at the beachside dive center.

Can I take photos during the dive?
Photos are not included in the package, but you can bring your own waterproof camera if you wish.

What should I bring?
Just your swimwear and a towel—everything else (equipment, instruction) is provided.

Is it safe if I have health concerns?
You’ll need to fill out a medical form. If you answer “yes” to certain questions, a doctor’s statement might be required to confirm fitness.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

In summary, this Playa Chica experience is a fantastic way for newcomers to enjoy their first underwater adventure in a safe, friendly environment. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a focus on comfort, it’s a memorable activity that can inspire a lifelong love of the ocean.