Gran Canaria: Advanced diving course with local guide

Summary

Dive deeper in Gran Canaria—skills, laughter & a few surprises

You’ll join a small group in Gran Canaria for five guided dives—including deep water and navigation practice—with all equipment provided. Choose from options like wreck or night diving alongside an experienced local instructor. Expect hands-on tips, real laughs, and moments under the Atlantic you’ll remember long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We met at the dive shop in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria—early enough that the air still felt cool and salty. Our instructor, Marta, handed out wetsuits and cracked a joke about my tangled hair (saltwater’s fault, not mine). I’d done a few dives before but this PADI Advanced Open Water course felt like stepping into something bigger. Five dives over two days sounded intense, but somehow it just flowed—maybe because Marta kept things light, or maybe because the ocean here is just… different. You can smell the sun on the rocks when you’re waiting to gear up.

The deep dive was first. I remember equalizing my ears again and again as we dropped down to 30 meters—my heart thumping louder than usual. The water went from turquoise to this moody blue-green that made everything feel quieter. Marta pointed out a school of barracuda glinting in the gloom; I tried to signal “wow” but probably looked ridiculous with my gloves on. Later, during underwater navigation practice, I lost track of which way was north for a second and had to laugh at myself—Marta just grinned through her mask and let me figure it out.

For the last three dives we got to choose: I picked wreck diving (couldn’t resist), boat entry, and night diving—which honestly scared me more than I expected. The night dive especially sticks with me; floating in blackness except for our torches, hearing nothing but my own bubbles and someone’s muffled laugh nearby when a curious cuttlefish zipped past. Afterward we all sat on the dock peeling off our gear, shivering a little even though it wasn’t cold anymore. Someone passed around biscuits that tasted faintly of sea salt—maybe they always do here?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Advanced Diving Course in Gran Canaria

• Complete 5 dives over 2 days
• 2 core dives: Deep dive to 30m and Underwater navigation
• 3 optional dives: boat, wreck, or night diving

Top questions

How many dives are included in the PADI Advanced Diving Course?

The course includes five dives over two days.

Where does the advanced diving course take place?

The course is based in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria.

Is hotel pickup included for this diving course?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels.

What are the required core dives for this course?

The core dives are Deep Dive (to 30 meters) and Underwater Navigation.

Can I choose some of the dive types during the course?

Yes, you can choose three optional dives such as wreck diving or night diving.

Is equipment provided for the advanced diving course?

Yes, full equipment hire is included in your booking.

Do I need prior certification to join this course?

You must show evidence of previous dive certification to participate.

Are there any health restrictions for participants?

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

What’s included

Your experience covers tuition from a professional guide, full equipment hire, insurance, online study manual with certification fee included, plus hotel pickup and drop-off if you’re staying at selected hotels nearby.