Albufeira: Double Ocean Dive for Certified Divers

If you’re planning a trip to the Algarve and enjoy exploring the ocean’s mysteries, the Double Ocean Dive in Albufeira offers an experience that mixes adventure with a touch of contemporary art. This tour, tailored for certified divers, promises two immersive sessions into the Atlantic, guided by knowledgeable professionals who know the best spots to see marine life and underwater features.

What we love about this experience is the chance to visit two different dive sites, including one featuring the striking underwater mural by artist Vhils—an innovative blend of art and nature. The small group setting ensures you’ll get personalized attention, making safety and fun top priorities. Plus, the waters are crystal clear, giving you great visibility and vibrant wildlife encounters.

One possible downside is that this tour is designed strictly for those with valid diving certifications; if your last dive was over a year ago, you’ll need to do a quick reactivation or refresher beforehand. Otherwise, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want a meaningful and high-quality diving adventure.

This tour is best suited for certified divers looking to explore Algarve’s underwater world in a safe, well-guided environment, and who appreciate a bit of artistic flair alongside marine exploration.

Good To Know

• Two-site diving gives you the chance to explore diverse underwater features and ecosystems.
• Expert guides with local knowledge enhance safety and help you spot marine life and hidden gems.
• Unique underwater mural by Vhils adds an artistic dimension that’s rare in diving experiences.
• Small groups ensure personalized attention and a more relaxed, safe environment.
• Duration of 4 hours balances enough time underwater while keeping the day manageable.
• All necessary equipment and a briefing are included, simplifying the planning process.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from Your Albufeira Double Dive

This is a carefully curated experience, designed to maximize what certified divers can see and do in a limited time. Starting from Rua Marina de Albufeira, you’ll meet your guides at the dive center, where the day kicks off with a safety briefing. The guides, including the well-regarded team at Portugal Dive, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness—expect clear instructions and helpful tips throughout.

The Journey to the Sites

Once briefed, you’ll hop onto a speedboat, which takes about 15 minutes to reach the first dive site. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, offering quick scenic views of the coastline. The boat is well-maintained and provides a comfortable platform for your transition into the water.

First Dive: Exploring the Marine Ecosystem

The initial descent lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you ample opportunity to see reefs, caves, and a variety of sea creatures. Expect to encounter octopuses, moray eels, and schools of colorful fish—crystal-clear waters enhance visibility, making it easier to spot these marvels. The guides are praised for their local knowledge, helping you find the best spots for photos and wildlife watching.

The Underwater Art Experience

Depending on the weekly schedule, you might be lucky enough to see Vhils’ underwater mural. This carved rock face offers a striking contrast against the natural environment. Many reviewers mention that seeing this piece feels like a convergence between modern art and nature—something truly memorable for creative spirits or art enthusiasts.

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Second Dive and Return

After the first dive, you’ll have a brief surface interval before heading out for the second session, also about 2.5 hours. The second site varies but often includes more underwater formations and marine life. The return boat ride is about 15 minutes, giving you an opportunity to relax and reflect on your underwater discoveries.

What’s Included and Not

The tour includes everything you need for a safe, enjoyable experience: a thorough briefing, dive guides, your equipment, and the boat trip to the sites. The cost of $164 per person covers the entire 4-hour excursion, which is competitively priced considering the small group size and professional guides.

Things not included are your dive computer and torch—if you rely on your own gear, you might want to bring these along. Plus, any items not explicitly listed in the inclusions, such as personal snacks or souvenirs, you’ll need to handle separately.

The Meeting and Logistics

Your meeting point is at the dive center in Albufeira Marina. The exact location is shared after booking, with options for transportation if needed—although many travelers find it convenient to walk or take a short taxi ride. The activity is wheelchair accessible, making it somewhat inclusive, though the physical demands of diving should be considered.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour lasts about 4 hours, with multiple start times available depending on the day. Be sure to check availability so you can align it with your planned activities in Algarve. If you’re planning to do more diving or other excursions, this experience fits well into a full-day itinerary.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Given the cost, the tour provides a comprehensive experience for certified divers. The inclusion of professional guides, two dives, and all equipment makes it a worry-free option. Seeing the underwater mural, coupled with exploring reefs and caves, adds an extra layer of interest that sets this apart from standard dive outings.

Plus, small groups typically mean better engagement with guides, higher safety standards, and more opportunities for personalized photos and wildlife spotting. Many reviewers mention the guides’ thoroughness and friendly approach, which truly enhances the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for certified divers seeking a well-organized, memorable underwater adventure in Algarve. It suits those interested in marine life, underwater art, or simply wanting to maximize their time exploring the Atlantic waters. If you’re new to diving or haven’t been active in a while, you’ll need to ensure your last dive was within a year or more, as a refresher is required otherwise.

While not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues, the activity remains accessible to most physically capable divers. If you love guided experiences with knowledgeable instructors and are eager to see both natural and artistic underwater sights, this tour will meet and likely exceed your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own diving equipment?
The tour includes equipment, so you only need to bring your diving certification and personal items like your dive computer or torch if you prefer using your own gear.

How long is each dive?
Each of the two dives lasts about 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the sites thoroughly.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s designed for certified divers with a valid certification. If your last dive was over a year ago, you might need to do a quick refresher.

Can I see the underwater mural?
Yes, depending on the weekly schedule, you may have the opportunity to see Vhils’ underwater artwork carved into a submerged rock face.

What is the group size?
Guides typically work with small groups, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments.

What should I do if I want transportation?
Transport can be arranged upon request, but the meeting point is generally easy to access from central Albufeira.

Final Thoughts

The Albufeira Double Ocean Dive offers a beautifully balanced experience of adventure, artistry, and marine discovery. The professionalism of guides like those at Portugal Dive, combined with the stunning underwater scenery, makes this a worthwhile choice for certified divers wanting to make the most of their Algarve holiday.

For those who love exploring the ocean’s depths with knowledgeable guides, appreciate unique sights like underwater murals, and want a safe, personalized experience, this tour hits all those marks. It’s a thoughtfully designed option that maximizes value without sacrificing quality or safety.

Whether you’re an avid diver or someone keen to tick off an underwater adventure in Portugal, this experience promises memorable moments beneath the waves, in an environment that’s both visually stunning and scientifically fascinating.

You can check if your dates are available here: