FAQ - Discover Scuba / Try Diving

For people who have never dived before and would like to try.

What is the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program?

The Discover Scuba Diving program is for people who would like to try diving to see if they like it, perhaps before taking the plunge and becoming a certified diver. Briefly, while you are on the boat on the way to the first stop, your Instructor will show you the equipment you will use, and teach you the basics about scuba diving. Then you will get to practice while you are still on the boat, with the same equipment you will use in the water. Once we get to the first stop, you will enter the water with the Instructor. Before you can go exploring underwater, you must successfully complete some basic skills while holding on to a line with your head just underneath the water, to make sure you will be safe and comfortable while you are diving.

Once these are completed successfully, you will use the line to descend deeper underwater (maximum 12 metres) with the Instructor. Then you can go for a swim with the Instructor (you must hold on to the Instructor at all times) and explore our fabulous underwater world. At the second stop, all you need to do is enter the water and explore with your Instructor – no need for further skills, unless you would like to continue with your PADI Open Water course to become a certified diver.

Do I need to know how to swim?

You do not strictly need to know how to swim. However, it will help you to feel comfortable in the water. Non-swimmers tend to find the program a lot more challenging than people who already know how to swim or are confident in the water.

Can you breathe with the mask on?

Yes, you can breathe through the regulator – the special piece of equipment that delivers air from the tank while we are underwater. However, you cannot breathe in or out through your nose, as it will be covered by the mask. It is important for your nose to be covered by the mask so that you can equalise the pressure in your ears as you descend. Your Instructor will teach you how to do this while you are on the boat.

Do I need to have my head underwater?

Yes, scuba diving is only conducted underwater. If you are not underwater, it is not scuba diving.

How big are the groups?

We have a maximum ratio of 2 Discover Scuba participants per Instructor. More can join the group, but then we will add another Instructor or a Divemaster to assist.

How will I know how to breathe?

Your Instructor will teach you on the boat about how to breathe, and then you will practice breathing with real equipment while you are still on the boat.

Can I dive by myself after I’ve completed the PADI Discover Scuba Diver program?

No – the PADI Discover Scuba Diver program is a way for you to experience the underwater world, to see if you would like to become a certified scuba diver. However, if you already think that maybe you would like to do the PADI Open Water course while you’re here, just let your Instructor know – they can then include additional skills on the second dive, which can credit toward the Open Water course. Please ask if you’d like more information.

Can we bring our GoPro / underwater camera so the Instructor can take pictures of us?

In order to make sure you are safe while participating in the Discover Suba Program, PADI standards do not allow Instructors and Divemasters to take photos while conducting the PADI Discover Scuba Diver program. If you would like to use the camera yourself, please speak to your Instructor at the start of the trip – it is generally safer for you not to be distracted by using a camera, but it is entirely at your Instructor’s discretion.

Do you have an underwater photographer?

Yes, a photographer is available on select trips. Photo packages vary in price. Ask for more information.

Do you provide diving equipment?

Yes - our trip prices include equipment rental – BCD, Regulator, 3mm short Wetsuit, Fins, Mask, 12L tanks, Weight belt and weights.

Can my friend/family/partner come along as a passenger?

Yes, they can come along and enjoy the sun and the views. The prices are here.