Porto: My first Scuba Dive in the Ocean

Trying something new always sparks a mix of excitement and nervousness, especially when it involves the ocean. While we haven’t personally strapped on a wetsuit in Porto, this scuba diving experience promises a safe, beginner-friendly introduction to breathing underwater. It’s designed for those curious about exploring beneath the waves without needing prior experience or licenses.

What stands out most about this tour is its professional guidance, the chance to see marine life up close, and the short, manageable duration — perfect for travelers with limited time. That said, it’s not aimed at the very young or those with mobility issues, so a bit of physical fitness and comfort in water are good to have. If you’re someone who’s always wondered what it’s like to float weightlessly beneath the surface, this activity could be just the ticket.

This experience is well-suited for adventurous travelers eager to try something new, families with older children, or anyone interested in a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving in Portugal’s Atlantic waters.

Good To Know

• Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience or license needed.
• Short & Sweet: A 2-hour trip with around 30-40 minutes underwater.
• All Equipment Included: Full gear provided, no extra costs.
• Multiple Languages: Guides speak English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
• Small Groups: Limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Great Value: At $164, it offers a memorable intro to ocean diving with expert supervision.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Experience

If you’ve ever stared into the ocean and wondered what was beneath the surface, this Porto scuba experience could be your answer. It’s designed to make the underwater world accessible, safe, and fun. The idea of breathing underwater might sound intimidating, but with a certified instructor by your side, you’re in capable hands.

The tour’s appeal lies in its simplicity and focus on fun and safety. It’s perfect for first-timers, as it requires no previous training and takes place in a calm environment. We loved the way the activity combines the thrill of exploration with easy-to-understand instructions, making it approachable even for complete novices.

One potential drawback? It’s only 30-40 minutes underwater, so if you’re craving a longer or more immersive experience, you might find this a bit brief. Still, for many, that’s enough to get a taste of what it feels like to be underwater with the ocean all around.

This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, guided introduction to scuba diving without a huge time commitment or financial investment. It’s ideal for curious travelers, families with older children (over 10), or anyone seeking a unique, memorable adventure in Portugal.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Marina de Leça

Your adventure kicks off at Marina de Leça, a picturesque spot with easy access to the Atlantic. The location offers a scenic backdrop and convenient facilities, making it a pleasant start point. Many reviewers mention the marina’s friendly atmosphere and well-organized setup.

Safety Briefing (30 minutes)

The first part of the experience is a comprehensive safety briefing. The guide will introduce you to basic theory, diving techniques, and safety tips. This is a crucial step, especially for beginners, and most reviews note that instructions are clear and approachable. A reviewer pointed out that the instructor, often fluent in multiple languages including English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, makes everyone feel comfortable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Speedboat Trip (15 minutes)

Next is a brief boat ride to the dive site. The journey takes about 15 minutes, and many found it a fun way to start the adventure. The boat itself is described as comfortable, and the ride offers glimpses of Porto’s coastline, a bonus for those who enjoy scenic travel.

The Underwater Experience (30-40 minutes)

Once at the dive site, you’ll gear up with full equipment, including mask, fins, wetsuit, and tank — all provided. The instructor will stay close, guiding you through the process and ensuring safety.

Underwater, at a maximum depth of 6 meters, you’ll have around 30 minutes to explore the marine environment. Expect to see Portuguese coastal marine life, and many reviews mention the thrill of floating and feeling weightless. The sensation of breathing calmly beneath the waves is often described as surreal — a feeling of peace and wonder.

Returning to Marina de Leça

After the dive, the boat trip back is typically relaxed, offering time to reflect on the experience. Some reviews note that the entire activity, from start to finish, is smooth and well-paced.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $164 per person, you get full scuba diving equipment, a certified instructor, safety briefing, insurance, and the boat trip. This all-in-one package ensures you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics, making it a hassle-free way to try diving.

The experienced guides have received a strong rating of 4.3, and many guests mention feeling well-supported throughout their dive. The small group size (up to 8) allows for personalized attention, which is vital in building confidence and ensuring safety.

Practical Considerations and Tips

What to bring: Swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are essentials. Since you’ll be in the water, pack lightweight clothing and a dry change of clothes for after.

Not suitable for: Children under 10, pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or non-swimmers. It’s important to be comfortable in water and physically able to handle a short swimming session.

Timing: Check availability for starting times, but expect the entire activity to last just 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary. Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

Language: Guides speak multiple languages, making communication easy for international travelers.

The Value of This Experience

While $164 might seem steep for a half-hour underwater adventure, consider the scope of what’s included: professional instruction, high-quality gear, insurance, and an authentic marine environment. For many, it’s a rare chance to try something that might otherwise seem intimidating or inaccessible. The small group size also means personal attention, which enhances safety and confidence.

In addition, the experience’s convenience — starting at a central marina, short duration, and natural scenery — makes it a smart choice for travelers who want a memorable, fun activity without a big time or financial commitment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is best for adventurous travelers curious about the ocean, families with older children, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to scuba diving. It’s particularly appealing if you’re seeking a safe, guided, and well-organized experience, with no prior training needed.

If you’re into marine life or simply want to check a bucket list item, this tour offers a perfect snapshot of underwater exploration without the complexity or expense of full certification.

Final Thoughts

This Porto scuba experience offers solid value for those looking to glimpse the marine world in a controlled, friendly setting. It’s an excellent choice for beginners, providing just enough time to feel the thrill of breathing underwater and seeing Porto’s coastal waters in a new light.

While the activity may be brief, it’s packed with authentic moments of awe — the kind that can inspire a lifelong interest in underwater adventures. Its combination of professional guidance, scenic location, and straightforward logistics makes it an accessible and enjoyable option for most travelers.

If you’re eager to try something new and memorable while visiting Porto, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Is prior experience required?
No, this activity is designed for beginners with no previous training needed.

What’s the maximum depth of the dive?
The dive takes place at around 6 meters, enough for a great underwater view without being overwhelming.

How long do I spend underwater?
Expect approximately 30-40 minutes of actual time underwater.

Are full equipment and safety gear provided?
Yes, all necessary gear is included in the price.

Can non-Spanish, English, Portuguese, or French speakers participate?
The guides speak multiple languages, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 10 years old who are comfortable in water.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended.

Is insurance included?
Yes, insurance is part of the package.

How long does the entire activity last?
It lasts about 2 hours from start to finish, including briefing, boat trip, dive, and return.

Is the experience available year-round?
Availability depends on the schedule, so check in advance, but it’s generally offered throughout the year based on weather conditions.

In summary, this beginner-friendly scuba experience in Porto balances adventure, safety, and value, making it an ideal starting point for those eager to see the ocean in a new way. It’s straightforward, scenic, and supported by experienced guides — a memorable first step into Portugal’s underwater world.

You can check if your dates are available here: