Cyprus: First-Time Scuba Diving Small Group & Green Bay

Summary

First-time scuba diving in Cyprus with small group feel

You’ll slip into your wetsuit in Cyprus and learn scuba basics from a patient local guide before heading to Green Bay for your very first dive. Expect small groups—never more than four—and lots of encouragement as you practice breathing underwater and spot fish (maybe even a turtle). After surfacing, enjoy hot tea or coffee with new friends while you dry off in the sun.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the wetsuit felt—kind of snug and rubbery, almost like pulling on a superhero costume (though I definitely didn’t look like one). Our instructor, Andreas, grinned as he handed out masks. He said something about “not worrying if you look silly,” which helped me relax. The salty air at Green Bay mixed with sunscreen and that faint plasticky smell from the gear. I’d never tried anything like this before—my heart thumped louder than the waves slapping the rocks nearby.

We started with a quick theory session at the dive school—Andreas explained everything without making it sound complicated. He even drew little diagrams on a whiteboard. Then we piled into their van (it smelled faintly of wet neoprene and coffee) and drove to the bay. There were only three others in my group; it honestly felt more like tagging along with friends than joining a tour. In the shallow water, I kept forgetting to breathe through my mouth, but Andreas was patient—he tapped his mask and gave me a thumbs up each time I got it right.

The actual dive… well, it’s hard to put into words. The world went quiet except for my own bubbling breath. We followed Andreas along the sandy bottom, fish darting past our fins—tiny flashes of silver and yellow everywhere. At one point he pointed at something moving slowly under a rock: a turtle! I nearly lost my mouthpiece from grinning so wide (probably not recommended). After about 45 minutes underwater, we surfaced and just floated there for a second, sun on our faces. Back on shore, someone handed me hot tea—I don’t even drink tea usually but it tasted perfect after being in the sea. Funny how that works.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scuba diving introduction and practice

• Attend short theory session
• Drive to local bay
• Practice shallow water skills
• Begin guided dive up to 10 meters

Top questions

Is this scuba diving experience suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's designed specifically for first-time divers aged 10 and up.

How long does the whole program last?

The full experience takes about 3 hours from start to finish.

What is included in the price?

Private transportation, all scuba equipment use, small group size (max 4), and after-dive tea or coffee are included.

Where does the diving take place?

Dives usually happen at Green Bay or another suitable local site near Protaras.

Is lunch provided?

No lunch is included, but you get tea or coffee after your dive.

Are there any health restrictions?

This activity isn't recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

Can service animals come along?

Yes, service animals are allowed according to the provider's info.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation to Green Bay or another good beginner-friendly site near Protaras, all necessary scuba equipment (mask, fins, wetsuit), guaranteed small group size with no more than four divers per instructor for extra attention, plus post-dive tea or coffee shared with your group before heading back.