Gran Canaria: Beginner Scuba Dive Puerto Rico Small Group

Summary

First time diving gran canaria reefs small group lesson

You’ll start your beginner scuba diving experience in Puerto Rico with a friendly local guide who walks you through every step — from equipment to your first breath underwater. After practicing in shallow water until you feel ready, you’ll explore Gran Canaria’s reefs in a small group and spot colorful marine life together. It’s equal parts nerve-wracking and peaceful — something you’ll remember long after drying off.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried breathing underwater?” That’s what Juan asked right after we shuffled into the little dive center in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria. I laughed — honestly, I was more nervous than I let on. The wetsuits smelled like the ocean and neoprene (not my favorite combo), but everyone was joking around, so it felt okay. There were just four of us plus Juan and his assistant. He had this way of explaining things that made it all seem less intimidating — even when he handed me the mask and said, “Don’t worry if you look ridiculous at first.”

The first few minutes in the shallow water were weird. You know that feeling when you try to breathe through a straw? It’s like that at first. Juan kept giving us thumbs up and silly faces through his mask — he probably does this every day but still seemed genuinely excited for us. My heart was racing when I finally put my head under, but then it got quiet except for my own bubbles and the muffled sound of someone laughing (maybe me). I remember touching the sand with my fingers just to ground myself.

Once we got used to it, we followed Juan out toward the reef. The water was colder than I expected — not freezing, just enough to make me shiver once or twice. Suddenly there were these flashes of silver everywhere: little fish darting around us like they owned the place. At one point, Juan pointed out something hiding in a rock (I think it was an octopus?) but honestly I was too busy trying not to float away. He grabbed my arm gently and steered me back — didn’t make a big deal out of it, which I appreciated.

I still think about how peaceful it felt down there, just drifting along with the group while sunlight rippled overhead. When we surfaced again near the shore, I realized my cheeks hurt from grinning inside the mask. Back at the dive center, everyone swapped stories about what they saw — apparently someone spotted a ray but I missed it completely (figures). Even now, days later, I keep remembering that hush under the water and how proud I felt for actually doing it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scuba diving training and reef dive

• Meet instructor at dive centre
• Complete paperwork and prepare equipment
• Practice skills in shallow water
• Dive around reef to see marine life
• Return to dive centre

Top questions

Is this scuba diving experience suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's designed specifically for beginners with no prior experience needed.

How long does the session last?

The entire experience takes about 2 hours including briefing and diving.

Where does the scuba dive take place?

The dive is in Puerto Rico on Gran Canaria's southern coast.

Are all equipment and wetsuits provided?

Yes, all necessary diving equipment is included in your booking.

How many people are in each group?

Groups are kept small for a personal experience; usually 4-6 participants per instructor.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you'll meet directly at the dive center.

What’s the minimum age for this activity?

The minimum age is 10 years old for participants.

Can children or people with disabilities join?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and infants/small children can be present with supervision; check health requirements before booking.

Do I need to know how to swim well?

You should be comfortable in water but don’t need advanced swimming skills; guides help throughout.

What’s included

Your beginner scuba dive includes all professional instruction from a local guide plus full use of wetsuit and scuba gear during your two-hour session in Puerto Rico’s sheltered waters; just bring yourself (and maybe an underwater camera if you want photos) before heading back to shore together at the end.