Learn to dive in the Caribbean: try dives and courses
San Andrés is one of the best places to start diving: warm water, good visibility and shallow, sheltered spots. We suggest learning here, as part of a trip with accommodation, island activities and time to enjoy the Caribbean.
Get the detailsPeople who have never dived before or who want to get their first diving certification in the Caribbean.
Why this trip
Warm, clear water
The sea is between 27 and 30 °C depending on the season and visibility is usually over 20 metres: you learn without getting cold and can see everything around you.
Calm spots to start
There are shallow, sheltered sites such as La Piscinita, ideal for your first breaths underwater.
Learn while you travel
Lessons fit around beach days, cays and island activities. It isn’t just a course: it’s a holiday where you also learn to dive.
Local instructors
Training is given by instructors from dive centres on the island, in small groups.
Try dive: your very first dive
A try dive is a guided first experience: an instructor explains the basics, you practise in shallow water and then make a short dive by their side. You don’t need any previous experience, just to feel comfortable in the water.
It’s the best way to find out whether diving is for you before signing up for a full course, and a lovely way to get to know the reef in San Andrés.
Open Water course: your diving certification
The entry-level course (Open Water Diver or equivalent) combines theory, confined water practice and dives in the sea. Once you’ve finished, you hold a certification recognised worldwide that lets you dive with a buddy.
Many people do the theory online before leaving home and spend their days on the island diving. We’ll explain how to fit it into the trip.
Why learn to dive in San Andrés
Many divers in the UK and the rest of Europe learn in cold water with poor visibility. In San Andrés, your first dives are among coral, colourful fish and crystal-clear water, within the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve.
What’s included
The package includes accommodation, island activities and dives. We send you the details of each departure (dates, price and itinerary) when you enquire.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need for a try dive?
To feel comfortable in the water and be reasonably fit. Before diving you’ll fill in a medical questionnaire; if you have any health concerns, check with your GP before the trip.
How many days does the diving course take?
It depends on the dive centre and on whether you do the theory online before you travel. We’ll give you the details with the itinerary.
Can I do a try dive if I’m travelling with someone who already dives?
Yes. It’s a great way for you both to enjoy the sea: while one of you dives, the other gets started.
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