Madeira: Scuba Diving Lesson & Sea Dive with Instructor

Summary

First time scuba diving in Madeira with hands-on guidance and a real sea dive

You’ll start with a relaxed pool lesson before heading into Madeira’s wild Atlantic for your first real dive — all with an experienced instructor by your side. Learn how the gear works, practice underwater signals, then explore up to 12 meters deep among local fish. Includes all equipment and a certificate so you can keep diving elsewhere. That first breath underwater? You’ll never forget it.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my heart to pound quite so hard just from sitting by a pool in Madeira, but there I was, clutching the edge and listening to our instructor, João, explain how to breathe underwater. The wetsuit felt tight and awkward at first — like trying on someone else’s skin — but João kept cracking little jokes about “fish fashion” and somehow that made it easier to laugh off my nerves. Chlorine smell mixed with the salty air drifting in from the ocean. It’s funny how serious you feel until you actually put your face under and realize… it’s just breathing, but in a whole new world.

The pool session was more comforting than I thought it’d be. João showed me how to clear my mask (I messed up twice; he just grinned), and we practiced those hand signals — thumbs up for “I’m okay,” which I probably overused. After that, we walked down toward the shore together. The Atlantic looked huge compared to the pool, honestly a bit intimidating. But João kept chatting about local fish names (I forgot most except “peixe-porco” because he snorted like a pig) and pointed out where we might see octopus if we were lucky.

Once we sank beneath the surface for our real dive, everything went quiet except for my own bubbles — it’s hard to describe unless you’ve tried it. The light filtered through greenish-blue water and there were these tiny silver fish darting around us like confetti. At one point I just stopped moving to watch them swirl past, forgetting for a second that I was even nervous before. Forty-five minutes felt both long and short at the same time; when João signaled it was time to go up, I almost didn’t want to leave yet.

I got a certificate at the end (with my name spelled slightly wrong, which made me laugh), but what sticks with me is that weird calm feeling after surfacing — like I’d done something quietly brave. If you’re thinking about trying a scuba diving experience in Madeira, just do it. You’ll remember how the water sounded in your ears longer than any souvenir.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scuba diving introduction and first dive

• Theory briefing at Azul Diving Center
• Swimming pool practice session
• Sea dive up to 12 meters depth
• Receive Certificate of Recognition

Top questions

Is this scuba diving experience in Madeira suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's designed for first-timers with no prior experience needed.

How deep will we go during the sea dive?

The maximum depth is 12 meters (about 40 feet).

Does this tour include all scuba equipment?

Yes, complete scuba diving equipment is included.

How long does the actual sea dive last?

The sea dive lasts about 45–50 minutes.

Is transportation included or do I need to get there myself?

You need to make your own way; public transport options are nearby.

Are there any health restrictions?

This activity isn't recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Is this scuba diving experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Will I get a certificate after completing the dive?

Yes, you'll receive a Certificate of Recognition allowing further diving adventures.

What’s included

Your day includes a theory briefing in Azul Diving Center’s classroom followed by a swimming pool session where you learn basic skills before heading out for a guided sea dive (up to 12 meters). All scuba equipment is provided along with professional instruction, taxes and fees covered—and you’ll finish with an official certificate as proof of your new skill.