San Andres: Aquanautas Helmet Diving & Underwater Walk

Summary

Helmet diving in San Andres lets you walk underwater and meet marine life up close

You’ll step off the dock in San Andres and slip into another world with Aquanautas helmet diving—breathing underwater, feeding curious fish, and brushing past Poseidon’s statue as your guide snaps photos. Even if you’ve never dived before, you’ll feel that strange mix of nerves and wonder as you walk along the ocean floor—an experience that lingers long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled down the dock at West View, helmets dangling from our arms like something out of a sci-fi movie. The air was thick with salt and sunscreen — I could taste both just standing there. Our guide, Andrés, grinned as he checked the fit of my helmet and made sure I understood his hand signals (I nodded but honestly forgot half of them once we stepped down that ladder). The water was cooler than I expected when it crept up my legs. And then suddenly — we were breathing underwater. It’s weirdly quiet under there, except for your own bubbles and the distant clink of someone’s wedding ring against the glass.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much underwater, but when a bright blue fish darted straight at my face (maybe hoping for food), I let out this muffled giggle that echoed inside the helmet. Andrés pointed toward the Poseidon statue — it looked almost ancient in the greenish light, with little fish weaving between his trident fingers. He handed me some food pellets and instantly my gloves were swarmed by tiny mouths. You can’t take your own camera (rules are rules), but he snapped a photo right when I tried to wave at a parrotfish and nearly lost my balance. So yeah, dignity not guaranteed.

After about 25 minutes on the ocean floor — which felt both long and way too short — we climbed back up into sunlight. My hair smelled like seaweed for hours after, but honestly? Worth it. There’s something about walking where you’re not supposed to walk that sticks with you for days.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aquanautas underwater walking experience

• Confirm activity time on arrival
• Receive helmet and instructions
• Begin 25-minute underwater walk
• See Poseidon statue and marine life
• Feed the fish during walk
• Instructor guides and takes photos

Top questions

How long does the Aquanautas helmet diving tour last?

The underwater walk lasts about 25 minutes per session.

Do I need swimming experience for Aquanautas in San Andres?

No, you don’t need to know how to swim to join this activity.

Is hotel pickup included for Aquanautas San Andres?

No, participants must arrive at West View 15 minutes before their scheduled time.

Can children join the helmet diving tour?

Children under 12 years old or shorter than 1.42 meters cannot participate.

Are cameras allowed during Aquanautas helmet diving?

No personal cameras are allowed during the activity; guides will take photos for you.

What should I bring for Aquanautas in San Andres?

You just need comfortable clothes; water shoes and lockers are provided on site.

Is Aquanautas suitable for people with health conditions?

The activity is not recommended for those with heart issues, hypertension, or pregnancy.

How many people are in each group for Aquanautas?

Groups are small—between 1 to 6 people per session with an instructor.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary equipment like helmets and water shoes, secure lockers for your belongings, plus guidance from a local diver who’ll stay with your group throughout—and even snap photos while you explore underwater together.