How much does it cost to dive in Spain: A complete guide for divers
Diving in Spain is more accessible than you might think, with prices for every budget, from single dives to full courses. The key is choosing your destination and type of experience wisely.
Hey, fellow bubble-blower! If you're thinking of diving into Spain's wonderful waters, you've come to the right place. Diving here is a fantastic experience, combining rich marine life with stunning underwater landscapes. But how much will this adventure really cost you?
Let's break down the prices so you can plan your diving trip without surprises. From try dives to advanced certifications, Spain offers options for all levels and budgets.
Try Dive: Your first bubble
Never dived before and want to give it a go? A try dive (or DSD) is the perfect option. It's a supervised dive in shallow water, no certification needed.
- Average price: Between 60 and 90 euros.
- What's included: Full equipment, personal instructor, safety briefing, and one dive.
- Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours in total.
It's the most affordable way to experience the underwater world and see if diving is for you. Many get hooked instantly!
Certified Dives: Exploring the depths
If you already have your certification, Spain welcomes you with open arms and many incredible dive sites. Prices vary depending on the number of dives you book and the location.
Single dive
- Average price: 30-45 euros per dive.
- What's included: Tank and weights. Rental of additional equipment (wetsuit, regulator, BCD) is usually extra.
Dive packages
- 2 dives: 60-80 euros.
- 4-6 dives: 120-200 euros (the price per dive decreases).
- 10 dives: 250-350 euros (the most cost-effective option per dive).
Booking dive packages is always more economical if you plan to dive for several days. Always ask about volume discounts.
Equipment Rental: How much does it add up?
If you don't travel with your own gear, you'll need to rent it. Most centers offer full packages or individual items.
- Full equipment (wetsuit, regulator, BCD, fins, mask): 15-25 euros per day.
- Individual items:
- Wetsuit: 5-10 euros.
- Regulator: 5-8 euros.
- BCD: 5-8 euros.
Make sure to ask when booking if equipment rental is included or an extra. Sometimes, dive centers include it if you book a large package.
Dive Courses: Your underwater passport
Getting a certification is an investment that will open doors to exploring 70% of the planet. Prices vary by level and dive center.
Open Water Diver (OWD)
- Average price: 350-500 euros.
- What's included: Theory classes, pool sessions, 4 open water dives, equipment rental, certification.
- Duration: 3-4 days.
The OWD course is your starting point for independent diving worldwide.
Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD)
- Average price: 250-400 euros.
- What's included: 5 adventure dives (navigation, deep, etc.), instructor, certification.
- Duration: 2-3 days.
This course allows you to dive deeper (up to 30 meters) and try different specialties.
Rescue Diver and Specialties
- Rescue Diver: 350-550 euros (includes first aid).
- Specialties (Nitrox, Deep, Underwater Photography): 150-300 euros per specialty.
Investing in training will make you a safer and more competent diver.
Best Diving Destinations in Spain and their prices
Spain is a diving paradise, with incredible marine diversity. Here's an idea of prices in some of the most popular destinations. You can explore more options at dive centers and resorts in Spain.
Canary Islands
- Tenerife: Single dive from 35-45 euros. OWD package from 400 euros. See diving in Tenerife.
- Lanzarote: Single dive from 40-50 euros. Try dive from 70 euros. See diving in Lanzarote.
The Canaries offer spectacular diving all year round with warm waters and abundant marine life.
Balearic Islands
- Menorca: Single dive from 35-45 euros. OWD from 380 euros. See diving in Menorca.
- Mallorca/Ibiza: Similar prices, perhaps slightly higher in peak season. Explore diving in Balearic Islands.
The Balearics are famous for their caves, grottos, and turquoise waters.
Costa Brava (Catalonia)
- Single dive: 30-40 euros. OWD from 350 euros. Discover diving in Costa Brava.
The Costa Brava is ideal for Mediterranean divers, with protected marine reserves.
Murcia and Andalusia
- Cabo de Palos (Murcia): Famous for its wrecks. Dive from 40-55 euros (often with a supplement for wrecks).
- Cabo de Gata (Andalusia): Dive from 35-45 euros. Discover diving in Andalusia.
These areas offer great historical and biological richness.
Tips to save and enjoy more
- Book in advance: Especially in high season, it secures your spot and sometimes better prices.
- Compare centers: Use platforms like DiverDoo to compare prices and services from dive agencies and dive centers.
- Consider a liveaboard: If you plan many dives, a liveaboard can be a cost-effective option, especially in other international destinations.
- Travel in low season: Fewer people, lower prices, though the weather might be cooler.
- Buy your own basic gear: Mask, fins, and snorkel are a good long-term investment.
Smart planning will allow you to maximize your dives without exceeding your budget. Spain is a top-tier diving destination, and with this guide, you're ready to explore its underwater treasures! See you underwater!
Frequently asked questions
Is diving in Spain expensive?
Not necessarily. There are options for all budgets, from try dives at €60 to more economical dive packages if you dive for several days. Full courses are around €350-€500.
What does the price of a single dive include?
It usually includes tank and weights. Rental of additional equipment (wetsuit, regulator, BCD, etc.) typically costs an extra €15-€25 per day if you need all the gear.
How much does a beginner's course (Open Water) cost in Spain?
An Open Water Diver (OWD) course in Spain usually costs between 350 and 500 euros, including theory, pool practice, 4 open water dives, equipment, and certification.
Where is it cheapest to dive in Spain?
Generally, destinations like the Costa Brava or some areas of Andalusia might be slightly more affordable than the Canary or Balearic Islands, especially outside of peak season. Comparing prices is key.
Can I dive in Spain without certification?
Yes, you can do a 'try dive' or 'Discover Scuba Diving' (DSD), which is a supervised dive in shallow water. It doesn't require certification and is ideal for trying it out.