The waters around Gran Canaria are warm, clear and full of life, and the south coast has sheltered bays that suit first-time divers. This discovery experience is designed for people who have never dived before. An instructor explains the equipment and the key safety signals, you practise breathing and clearing your mask in shallow water, and then you descend with a guide for a short underwater tour of rocky reefs where fish, rays and other sea creatures are common. No certification is required, and the groups are small enough for the instructor to stay close to each person. The experience gives a real taste of diving without a multi-day course, and for many visitors it is the highlight of their trip. If you are curious about what lies beneath the surface, it is an easy, supervised way to find out, and it can lead naturally to a full course on a later visit.
How it works
You book a dated session and meet the dive centre at the stated time. After a medical questionnaire and a briefing, the instructor fits your equipment and takes you into shallow water to practise breathing from the regulator, clearing your mask and equalising the pressure in your ears. When everyone is comfortable, the group descends with the instructor, usually to a modest depth, for a guided dive over rocks and sand.
What to expect
The sensation of breathing underwater takes a few minutes to feel natural, and instructors move at a pace that suits the group. Visibility is typically good, and the marine life includes shoals of small fish, octopus, rays and, sometimes, turtles or larger visitors. The water can feel cool, so a wetsuit is provided. Entry can be from a beach or a boat, depending on the site.
Who it suits
Adults and older children who are comfortable in water and in reasonable health. You will complete a medical questionnaire, and some conditions, including asthma, heart problems, recent ear or sinus issues and pregnancy, may rule out diving. Minimum ages apply, and you should not fly within the period recommended after diving, so plan the session around your departure date.
Making the most of it
Ask for a morning session if you want calmer sea conditions, and avoid a heavy meal beforehand. Bring swimwear, a towel and sunscreen, and consider an underwater camera package if offered. If you enjoy it, ask the centre about a full open-water course or a second dive, and combine the day with a visit to Puerto de Mogán or Amadores beach.
Good to know
Equalising your ears is the main skill, and you do it gently by pinching your nose and blowing softly as you descend. If you feel pain, tell the instructor and signal to ascend a little. A cold or blocked nose can make equalising difficult, so reschedule if you are unwell.
Avoid alcohol the night before and drink water on the day. The experience is also a fine introduction for family members who snorkel but want to go deeper. Many centres can link you to a full open-water course if you want to continue, and your discovery dive may count towards it, so ask at the desk.
What to expect
The experience
A supervised first dive with a briefing, shallow practice and a guided underwater tour, with equipment provided.
Best time
Morning sessions, when the sea is often calmer and visibility is good.
How long
Allow three to four hours including briefing and practice.
Tips
Complete the medical form honestly, avoid a heavy meal beforehand and do not fly soon after diving.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Complete beginners who want to try diving without a multi-day course.
- Families
- Suits older children and teenagers who meet the age limit.
- Couples
- A shared first dive makes a memorable day.
- Pair with
- A relaxed lunch in Puerto de Mogán or a snorkelling cruise.
- Time needed
- A half-day.
Good questions
Do I need a diving certificate?+
No, a discovery dive is for beginners and is guided by an instructor throughout.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
You should be comfortable in water and able to swim a short distance. Check the requirements when you book.
How deep will I go?+
Discovery dives stay at modest depths set by the instructor, typically in shallow areas.
Can I fly after diving?+
You should wait the period recommended by the dive centre before flying. Plan the session well before your departure.
What marine life might I see?+
Small fish, rays, octopus and other Atlantic species are common. Sightings vary by site and day.
