Try Dives – Discover Scuba Diving in Albufeira

Your first reef look can feel unreal. This intro scuba session is interesting because you get a theory warm-up plus real coaching in a pool before you head out to the reef. The big plus for me is the tight instructor attention, and the other strong point is the chance to see marine life up close while staying in a controlled, safety-first format. The main drawback to consider is that you must pass the safety checks, and if you cannot, the operator says there is no refund for not completing the activity.

You’re not left guessing. The program is designed for first-timers who want to understand how scuba works, what to do, and what to expect in the water, not just a quick try with minimal instruction. You’ll also leave with an SSI certification that is valid for a limited time and comes with credits toward an Open Water course.

Key Highlights You Should Actually Care About

• Short, first-timer friendly structure: theory, pool skills, then one guided open-water outing
• Small group control: up to 10 people total, with instructors staying close (2 students per instructor)
• Clear water limits: maximum 12 meters, typically around 30 minutes or until 70 bar
• Reef-focused wildlife spotting: you’ll look at reef life and marine fauna along the Algarve coast
• Equipment included: scuba gear, plus bottled water, so you can travel lighter
• Paperwork at the end: an SSI certification valid for 6 months and an Open Water course credit

Meeting at Easydivers Training Center in Albufeira

The experience starts at the Easydivers training center in Marina de Albufeira, with check-in beginning at 1:45 pm. This matters because you’re not sprinting from hotel to boat. You have time to get set up calmly, fill out paperwork, and get your gear without rushing your first underwater session.

The check-in process includes an RTCW form and a medical questionnaire, which is standard for scuba activities. You’re also told up front that some medical conditions, like asthma or heart issues, may prevent you from diving. If you’re not sure, it’s worth asking your doctor early, because the safety rules are not negotiable.

Safety Checks, Theory, and Pool Practice You Can Trust

The core of this tour is the training ladder: classroom first, then a pool session, then the sea. That sequence is genuinely useful for beginners. It reduces the chance you panic from unfamiliar equipment, weird buoyancy feelings, or simple things like clearing your mask.

In the pool, your instructor demonstrates the safety exercises and watches you as you practice. Several reviews highlight how patient and supportive the team is. One reviewer specifically thanked Paulo for kindness and patience, and that matches the overall vibe you’ll want when you’re learning something technical in a foreign language environment.

This is also where you find out if you can comfortably handle the gear and procedures. Here’s the consideration: if instructors decide you do not meet the minimum safety standards, you may not complete the final sea outing. The operator states there is no refund if a client can’t manage the activity. A negative review describes a situation where multiple people were rejected during the indoor session and did not get their money back. I’d treat that as a warning to show up ready, ask questions, and take the pool practice seriously.

The Boat Ride and What to Expect on the Coast

Once the instructors feel you’re ready, you go by boat to the dive site area along the Algarve coastline. The schedule includes a short boat trip first. For many first-timers, that transfer period is underrated. It gives you a moment to breathe, look at the sea, and mentally switch from learning to doing.

Most of the group dynamics are handled well because the tour caps group size at 10. That means you’re not lost in a crowd. In multiple accounts, the support feels close and personal, with instructors keeping a hand on students during the water session.

You’ll also want to keep weather in mind. The tour requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to conditions, you should expect a different date or a full refund.

Reef Site Reality: Depth, Time, and Visibility

Your water session is guided at a maximum depth of 12 meters. Expect about 30 minutes underwater, or until your tank hits 70 bar. That rule of thumb is good for beginners because it keeps the experience within a safe, manageable window.

The reef itself is the focus. The activity description calls it a natural reef, while one review also mentions an artificial reef setup out in the ocean. Either way, the point is the same: you’re going to look at the reef structure and marine life where it actually lives, not just a few scattered rocks.

Visibility can vary. One reviewer noted that their visibility was not best but the team handled it, and they still saw cool sea life. That’s the honest way to think about the Algarve. If you go in expecting perfect clarity every time, you’ll be disappointed. If you go knowing it’s a bonus, you’ll enjoy the experience more.

Equipment and Coaching That Keeps the Session Calm

You get all necessary scuba equipment included. For first-timers, that’s a big value point. Buying or borrowing gear elsewhere can turn into a time sink and a quality gamble. Here, you show up, get fitted, and learn how to use what you’re actually going to wear.

What stands out in the feedback is the coaching style. Multiple reviews mention instructors being very professional, clear, and reassuring. One reviewer said the instructor was holding their hands the entire time in the sea session, which is exactly the kind of reassurance you want when you’re focused on breathing, hand signals, and staying calm.

Another detail that made people smile: banter and fun during instruction. One account mentions Mario’s bad jokes in the classroom, paired with Macedonia’s professionalism in the water. That combo matters. Humor lowers stress, but competence keeps you safe.

After the Water: Gear Off, Optional Shower, and SSI Paperwork

After the sea session, you return to the premises to remove the equipment. A shower is available if you want it. That small thing is helpful because after being in saltwater, you’ll feel better heading to lunch or sightseeing.

Then comes the paperwork. You receive an official SSI certification valid for 6 months, and it comes with credits for an Open Water diving course. For many people, that is the real payoff beyond the thrill. It turns a one-off experience into a stepping stone toward getting certified properly.

One more point: you’ll be reminded that for safety reasons, diving within the SSI range should be accompanied by a professional. The point here is not to scare you, it’s to set the expectations correctly as you move from beginner try to real training.

Price and Value: What You Get for $157.22

At about $157.22 per person for roughly 3 hours, this is not a cheap activity. But it’s also not random. You’re paying for a full first-timer setup: theory time, pool coaching, instructor-to-student support in the water, boat transport, and the equipment.

The certification component adds value. Getting SSI paperwork after a controlled introduction is a practical advantage, especially if you want to continue toward an Open Water course. Also, the group size is capped at 10, which usually means better hands-on attention.

Where you might feel the cost is in what is not included. Food and drinks are not included, and there is no hotel pickup. If you’re staying outside easy transit routes, you’ll want to plan how you’ll get to the Marina de Albufeira on time.

Who This Intro Scuba Session Is Best For

This tour is aimed at people who are trying scuba for the first time and want to learn the basics properly. You should also be comfortable swimming, since knowing how to swim is required.

It’s a solid fit if:

• you want structured coaching, not just equipment and a quick swim
• you’re open to pool practice where you learn safety exercises
• you want a certification outcome and course credits, not just a souvenir photo

It might be a tougher fit if:

• you’re anxious and unwilling to practice basic safety skills in the pool
• you have a relevant medical condition and aren’t sure you meet the requirements
• you expect the sea portion to be guaranteed no matter what happens in training

Practical Tips to Help You Have a Smooth First Session

Plan your day so you arrive early enough to check in without stress. Late arrival can mean you miss parts of the program, and the operator states refunds are not issued if you miss due to late arrival or no-show.

Wear something you can get wet in, and consider bringing a swim-friendly towel. You will have a shower option afterward, but having your own basics makes the transition easier.

If you’re nervous, lean into the pool practice. That’s where your instructor builds the confidence you’ll need later. Reviewers who felt safe consistently mention clear guidance and patient support. That typically comes from doing the basics right first.

Finally, remember the time and depth limits. The goal is not to prove anything. The goal is to learn a new skill set while keeping the session comfortable and safe.

Should You Book This Try Scuba Session in Albufeira?

Book it if you want a first-timer scuba introduction with a real training format. The combination of theory, pool skills, and close instructor guidance is a strong match for learners. I’d also consider it good value because equipment, boat transport to a reef site area, and SSI certification paperwork are included, plus Open Water course credits.

Skip it or think twice if you know you struggle with safety procedures, you’re unwilling to complete the pool requirements, or you have any medical situation that could affect your ability to participate. One negative experience shows that if you cannot meet minimum standards, the sea portion may not happen and refunds may not be offered. If you approach it seriously and follow instructions, you’re much more likely to have the positive outcome that most reviews describe.

If you’re ready to try something new in a controlled, guided way, this is a worthwhile way to start in the Algarve.

FAQ

How long is the Try Scuba session in Albufeira?

It runs for approximately 3 hours.

What is the meeting point and start time?

You meet at Easydivers training center in Marina de Albufeira, Passeio dos Oceanos, Lote 4, Loja 5, 8200-371 Albufeira. The start time is 1:45 pm.

What’s included in the price?

All taxes, bottled water, a diver/guide and professional guide, and use of scuba equipment are included.

What’s not included?

Food and drinks are not included, souvenir photos are available to purchase, and there is no hotel pickup or drop-off.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes. Knowing how to swim is an essential requirement.

How deep do you go and how long is the sea portion?

The maximum depth is 12 meters. The underwater session is approximately 30 minutes or until the tank reaches 70 bar.

Is there a certification at the end?

Yes. You receive an official SSI certification valid for 6 months and you get credits for an Open Water course.

Who can participate, and are there age limits?

Children under 10 years old and under 1.40 meters in height are not allowed. All participants must complete a health questionnaire before diving.