Planning a trip to Taiwan and looking for an unforgettable aquatic adventure? This Discover Scuba Diving experience on Xiaoliuqiu Island offers a unique opportunity to see green sea turtles up close in their natural habitat. With a reputation for being beginner-friendly, well-organized, and packed with marine life, it’s an experience that tends to leave visitors smiling and craving more.
We love the chance to encounter sea turtles in the wild, the professionalism of the guides, and the inclusion of underwater photography that helps preserve the memories. Plus, the entire experience is designed to be accessible for first-timers, making it a fantastic option for those new to scuba. That said, it’s important to note that weather conditions can influence visibility, which might impact your view of the marine life.
This tour is best suited for those curious about snorkeling or diving, adventure seekers eager to see Taiwan’s incredible underwater world, or anyone wanting a safe, guided introduction to scuba water activities. If you’re comfortable in water and eager to see turtles and vibrant reef life, this could be a highlight of your trip.
- Good To Know
- Why This Experience Stands Out
- The Itinerary: What to Expect
- Meeting Point and Timing
- The Duration and Pace
- The Practice Session
- The Dive
- Marine Life and Reef Environment
- What’s Included and What to Prepare
- Included
- Not Included
- The Experience: Real Perspectives from Reviewers
- Practical Tips for Your Dive Day
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- The Best Of Kaohsiung!
- More Scuba Diving Tours in Kaohsiung
- More Tour Reviews in Kaohsiung
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Kaohsiung we have reviewed
Good To Know
- Beginner-friendly: No prior experience or certification needed, perfect for first-timers.
- Wildlife encounters: Close views of green sea turtles, puffers, eels, and octopuses.
- Full gear included: All scuba equipment, cylinders, and instructor support provided.
- Underwater photography: Capture your adventure with included photos and videos.
- Short but impactful: Approximate 2-hour experience, ideal for a quick underwater thrill.
- Weather dependent: Good weather is essential; bad weather may lead to cancellation or reduced visibility.
👉 See our pick of the 24 Best Tours In Kaohsiung
Why This Experience Stands Out
This two-hour scuba adventure on Xiaoliuqiu Island is designed for those who want to get a taste of underwater exploration without the need for certification. The tour’s main draw is the high density of green sea turtles, often considered one of the most adorable and gentle marine creatures. Being able to swim alongside them in their natural habitat truly feels like a moment of connection with nature.
The marine biodiversity in this part of the Pacific, especially in the Bashi Channel, means that besides turtles, you’re likely to see puffers, eels, octopuses, and sponge reefs. This variety adds richness to the experience, making each moment underwater exciting.
You can also read our reviews of more scuba diving tours in Kaohsiung
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Meeting Point and Timing
The adventure begins at No. 90-2, Lane 1, Zhongzheng Rd, Liuqiu Township, Pingtung County, where you’ll meet your instructor. Operating daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the tour is available year-round, provided the weather cooperates. Travelers typically book at least 18 days in advance, which indicates its popularity.
The Duration and Pace
With an overall length of around 2 hours, this tour offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into underwater life. The duration includes a brief safety briefing, a shallow water practice session, and the main dive. Since no certification is provided, it’s tailored to ensure ease and comfort, especially for those new to diving or snorkeling.
The Practice Session
Before hitting the water, you’ll learn the basic safety guidelines and practice a few key skills in shallow water. This training helps build confidence and ensures you understand how to breathe and move underwater safely. Reviewers mention that the instructors are very attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable, which is especially reassuring for first-time divers.
The Dive
Once ready, you’ll descend to the reef where sea turtles are a common sight. The guides know the best spots to see them, and their knowledge helps maximize your chances of a close encounter. Underwater photography is included, so you can focus on enjoying the moment while they capture those unforgettable images.
Marine Life and Reef Environment
Expect to see more than just turtles. The waters are teeming with puffers, eels, pacific octopus, and sponge reefs, offering an engaging underwater tapestry. Reviewers describe the marine life as abundant and accessible, with many noting how close they got to the turtles – some even comment that the experience exceeded expectations.
What’s Included and What to Prepare
Included
- Use of scuba equipment
- All fees and taxes
- An instructor dedicated to your safety
- Underwater photography (photos and videos)
Not Included
- Private transportation to the meeting point (which travelers should plan separately)
- Swimsuit (recommended to bring your own)
Note: The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, maintaining a comfortable, personalized vibe that allows guides to focus on individual safety and enjoyment.
The Experience: Real Perspectives from Reviewers
Catherine_G describes her first-ever scuba experience as “super well thought out from start to finish,” and credits her instructor for making her feel “comfortable and confident.” She highlights the thrill of seeing the turtles close-up—something she highly recommends.
Another reviewer, Catherine_R, called it a “magical experience,” emphasizing that even with zero prior diving experience, the staff’s care made it accessible. She appreciated the photos, saying they captured “awesome memories” of the adventure, reinforcing how important good guidance and clear instructions are.
Shane_H mentions that, despite less-than-perfect visibility, the “friendly and helpful” staff made the trip memorable. The photos turned out well, and he joked about needing to remember to hold his breath longer—an understandable challenge for beginners.
Practical Tips for Your Dive Day
- Bring your own swimsuit, as it’s not provided.
- Arrive early to get familiarized and ask any last-minute questions.
- Be prepared for the possibility of weather-related cancellations; good weather is critical for good visibility.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions beforehand.
- Remember, no certification or prior experience is necessary, but be comfortable in water and enjoy moderate exercise.
- Photos are included, so don’t forget your waterproof camera or smartphone if you want extra shots.
The Sum Up
This Discover Scuba Diving with Sea Turtles experience in Xiaoliuqiu offers an accessible and memorable way to explore Taiwan’s underwater world. It’s especially appealing for beginners and animal lovers who want a safe, guided encounter with sea turtles and vibrant marine life. The professionalism of the guides, combined with the chance to capture underwater moments, makes it a great value at $83.
While weather conditions can impact the clarity of your view, the overall organization, friendly staff, and abundance of marine creatures make this tour a standout. It’s a perfect fit for anyone eager to dip their toes into scuba, see turtles in their natural habitat, or simply enjoy a short yet impactful aquatic adventure.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, seeking a family-friendly activity, or just wanting to add a touch of ocean magic to your trip, this tour delivers an authentic and unforgettable experience in Taiwan’s beautiful waters.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, no prior diving certification or experience is required. The guides provide safety instructions and basic skills practice before the main dive.
What should I bring?
Bring your own swimsuit and perhaps a waterproof camera if you want extra photos. All scuba equipment and underwater photography are included in the price.
How long does the experience last?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, including safety briefings, practice, and the underwater portion.
What marine animals might I see?
Besides the famous green sea turtles, you could encounter puffers, eels, pacific octopuses, and sponge reefs.
Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes. Good weather and clear seas are essential for the best visibility. Poor weather might lead to cancellations or reduced underwater views.
How many people are on the tour?
The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Do I need to be in good health?
Yes, participants should have no ongoing problems related to lungs, ears, eyes, or sinuses, and should not struggle with moderate exercise.
