Introduction
Exploring beneath the waves in Portugal’s Algarve region is an experience that many travelers overlook, but not for long once they learn about the Double Dive at the Ocean Revival Park. This tour promises a chance to get up close and personal with four sunken navy ships, making it a must for avid wreck enthusiasts and curious snorkelers alike.
What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the expert guidance ensures you’re in safe hands while exploring these historical vessels. Second, the stunning underwater scenery—with clear waters and vibrant marine life—is a treat for anyone who loves a good visual. Lastly, the value you get for $159, which includes equipment, a boat trip, and a guided experience, makes it a compelling option.
However, a real consideration is that this tour is specifically suited for advanced recreational divers. If you’re a beginner or not certified, you’ll need to opt for a different experience or a supervised try dive. This tour is best suited for those comfortable in the water, eager to see wrecks, and looking for an authentic, guided underwater adventure in Portugal.
Good To Know
- Exclusive wreck site: The Ocean Revival Park hosts four sunken navy ships, designed to attract wreck lovers.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable instructors lead the dives, ensuring safety and enriching your experience.
- All-included package: Equipment, briefing, and boat transportation are included for a smooth experience.
- Flexible options: Certified divers get two dives, while non-certified can try a supervised dive.
- Duration and convenience: The tour lasts around 4 hours with flexible starting times.
- Additional costs: Items like dive computers and torches are not included, so plan accordingly.
The Experience in Detail
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The Location & Why It Matters
The Algarve, Portugal’s famed southern coastline, offers more than stunning beaches—it’s also home to one of Europe’s most unique wreck sites. The Ocean Revival Park was specially created to attract wreck diving fans, with four deliberately sunken navy ships providing a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
The location is accessible from Lagos, a lively town known for its charming marina and lively atmosphere—perfect for combining a day at the beach with an exploration of the underwater world.
What’s Included & How It Works
For $159, you’re getting a well-rounded package: a briefing, a guide, equipment rental, a boat trip, and the double dive itself. This comprehensive setup means you can focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about logistics. The guides speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, making communication smooth for most travelers.
You’ll meet at the dive centre, where your adventure begins. If desired, transportation from your accommodation can be arranged (though it’s not included in the price), simplifying logistics and freeing you to relax before or after the dive.
Diving the Wrecks: What to Expect
The main highlight here is the chance to explore the four sunken navy ships—creating an underwater playground filled with history and marine life. The wrecks are intentionally placed to appeal to divers, offering an array of structures to swim through, around, and alongside.
Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides, who not only ensure safety but also share interesting facts about each wreck. One diver noted, “Our guide, Pedro, was fantastic—he explained the ships’ stories and made sure everyone felt comfortable.” This level of attention transforms a standard wreck dive into a memorable journey.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFor Certified Divers
This tour is explicitly aimed at advanced divers. If you’re certified and comfortable with wreck diving, you’ll love the two dives offered. Expect to spend time exploring the ships’ decks, hulls, and internal compartments (if accessible). The experience is as much about the history as it is about the thrill of being underwater with these relics.
For Non-Certified & Beginners
While the tour is geared towards certified divers, non-certified guests aren’t left out. They can opt for a supervised “try dive,” allowing you to experience the thrill of underwater exploration while remaining under the watchful eye of an instructor. The tour makes it clear that you’ll be diving as a certified diver but with supervision, so clarify any doubts beforehand.
What Makes This Dive Stand Out?
Clean, clear waters and excellent visibility allow you to appreciate the wrecks’ structure and marine life. The water temperature and conditions tend to be suitable, but always check current weather conditions beforehand.
Multiple reviewers rave about the guides. “They are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both safe and fun,” said one diver. The guides’ attention to safety, combined with their storytelling, enhances the experience significantly.
Practical Considerations
- Duration: The entire tour lasts around 4 hours, including briefing, boat trip, and dives.
- Availability: Check availability for your preferred dates, as starting times vary.
- Equipment: All necessary gear is provided, but you’ll need to bring your dive certification and perhaps a dive computer, as these aren’t included.
- Additional costs: Items like torches or dive computers are not supplied, so consider bringing or renting these separately.
- Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, broadening the scope for many travelers.
Why Choose This Tour?
The Double Dive at Ocean Revival Park is perfect for those seeking a deeper dive into Portugal’s maritime history. It offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and marine scenery that’s difficult to match elsewhere in Europe. The knowledgeable guides, who are fluent in multiple languages, help make the journey engaging and safe.
If you’re a wreck lover, or even just curious about what lies below the water’s surface, this tour is a fantastic way to spend a few hours in the Algarve. It’s especially valuable for those with some diving experience, looking for a structured, guided adventure that emphasizes safety and storytelling.
While the price might seem steep at first glance, the inclusion of equipment, transportation, and expert guidance makes it a solid value. The experience is authentic, well-organized, and offers an unforgettable perspective on Portugal’s naval history.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour works best for certified divers with some wreck exploration experience. If you’re comfortable underwater and eager to see historic ships, you’ll find this to be a truly rewarding outing.
Adventure seekers who want a guided, hassle-free experience will appreciate the included equipment and boat transfer. The tour is also suitable for those who want to try diving with supervision, provided they are comfortable with the idea of a “try dive.”
Travelers with an interest in history, marine life, or simply looking for a standout activity in Algarve will love the combination of scenic views, the chance to explore sunken ships, and the chance to learn from experienced guides.
Final Thoughts
The Double Dive at Ocean Revival Park offers a rare opportunity to explore four historically significant ships in the safe hands of expert guides. From the moment you meet at the dive centre, to the moment you surface with stories to tell, every part of this experience is designed to be engaging, educational, and fun.
It’s a wonderful choice for those with a love for wrecks or anyone wanting to add an underwater adventure to their Algarve holiday. While not suited for complete beginners, it’s a superb choice for seasoned divers craving a new challenge or a memorable underwater history lesson.
If you cherish authentic experiences, well-guided excursions, and unique sights, this tour is worth considering—just come prepared with your certification, a sense of adventure, and a camera!
FAQ
Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, this experience is designed for advanced recreational divers. Non-certified guests can only participate if they opt for a supervised “try dive,” which still requires certification for the actual dives.
What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the briefing, dive guide, equipment rental, boat trip to the wreck site, and the double dive itself.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, items like a dive computer or torch are not included, so if you need these, you should bring them or rent separately.
What languages do the guides speak?
Guides are fluent in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication.
How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around 4 hours from start to finish, including briefing, boat transfer, and the dives.
Is transportation to the dive centre available?
Transportation can be arranged as an extra service, but it’s not included in the price.
What should I bring on the day of the dive?
Bring your dive certification, swimwear, a towel, and any personal items like a dive computer or torch if needed.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the site suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.
What is the best time of year to do this?
While specific seasonal info isn’t provided, conditions are generally favorable in the Algarve from spring through early autumn, ensuring good visibility and comfortable water temperatures.
In the end, this dive experience offers a compelling mix of history, marine beauty, and expert guidance, making it an ideal activity for seasoned divers or adventurous underwater explorers.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Lagos Portugal
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