If you’re considering taking your first steps into the world of scuba diving, the 2-day PADI Open Water course in Cancún offers an inviting and structured way to do it. This experience is designed for those who want to earn a reputable certification while soaking up the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply curious about exploring beneath the waves, this course could be your ticket to a new hobby—and maybe lifelong passion.
We particularly love the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities and explore vibrant coral reefs. The thought of earning your certification in just two days is motivating, and the chance to visit the Underwater Museum of Art adds a unique touch to the adventure. That said, the overall rating of 3.3 suggests some travelers have found the experience a bit uneven, possibly due to logistical details or instructor variance. Still, for those who enjoy small-group settings and are eager to try something new, this course could be a fantastic fit.
This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable in good weather, eager to learn a new skill, and ready to explore underwater landscapes that are widely regarded as some of the most colorful in the Caribbean. It’s especially appealing if you value certification that lasts a lifetime and don’t mind paying a bit for gear and marine park fees.
Key Points

- Learn in a controlled environment with a pool and then apply skills in open water.
- Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life.
- Visit the Underwater Museum of Art, adding a cultural twist to your underwater experience.
- Small group sizes (limited to 4 participants) ensure personalized attention.
- All necessary materials and gear are included, lowering your barrier to entry.
- Extra costs include wetsuit rental and marine park tax, so budget accordingly.
What You Can Expect from the Course

The 2-day PADI Open Water program is carefully structured to build your skills gradually. It begins with a comprehensive introduction to diving theory, covering safety protocols, equipment basics, and diving physics. These basics are essential, because feeling confident and safe is the foundation of enjoying your underwater adventures.
Next, you’ll spend time in a state-of-the-art training pool. Here, under the watchful eye of certified instructors, you’ll practice essential skills such as mask clearing, regulator recovery, and buoyancy control. These sessions are designed to make you comfortable in the water before venturing into open ocean. The small group size (limited to four) means you’ll receive plenty of individual guidance, which is a real plus for nervous beginners.
After mastering the fundamentals, you’ll move on to four open water dives across two days. These are your chance to explore vibrant coral reefs and observe marine life in its natural habitat. One highlight is the visit to the Underwater Museum of Art, a unique installation that combines art and marine conservation. The museum’s sculptures are intentionally designed to encourage coral growth, adding an environmental dimension to your experience.
All necessary dive gear is included, which simplifies planning and packing. However, you should budget around USD 10 per day if you want to rent a wetsuit, and there’s a USD 20 marine park fee payable during the trip. The course generally runs in the mornings, allowing some flexibility for your day.
You can also read our reviews of more scuba diving tours in Cancun
The Practical Side: Logistics and Value

The meeting point inside the Real Inn hotel and marina is conveniently located, especially if you’re staying nearby. Mentioning you’re with Coconut Divers helps streamline your registration. The provider’s rating of 3.3 suggests mixed reviews, but many travelers appreciate the personalized attention in small groups.
The cost of $559 per person is quite competitive for a certification course that includes theory, pool training, four ocean dives, and all equipment. When you consider that a PADI certification is valid worldwide, this fee can be viewed as an investment in a lifetime skill. On top of that, the flexible booking policy, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, offers peace of mind given travel uncertainties.
In terms of experience, what we love about this tour is the combination of classroom learning, controlled environment practice, and real-world application in the Caribbean Sea. The crystal-clear waters and vivid marine life make it an ideal setting for first-timers. However, some reviews hint that the overall experience may depend heavily on the instructor and weather, so it’s worth double-checking recent feedback.
Why This Course Might Be Worth It

We love that this course offers more than just a certification. The chance to see vibrant coral reefs and visit something as unique as the Underwater Museum of Art makes it memorable. Plus, the small group size ensures you’ll get personal attention—important for building confidence when trying something entirely new.
Considering the price point, it’s a reasonable investment for a well-rounded introduction to scuba diving, especially when most of your gear and materials are included. Keep in mind the additional costs for wetsuit rental and marine park tax, but these are typical for diving excursions in this region.
This experience is perfect for curious travelers who want to test the waters and see if diving is their new favorite hobby. It’s also an excellent choice for those who appreciate structured learning combined with adventure. If you’re traveling with friends or family who are not interested in diving, they can still enjoy the scenery while you earn your certification.
Final Thoughts

This 2-day PADI course in Cancún offers an engaging introduction to diving with ample opportunities to explore some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful underwater sights. While the overall rating suggests some inconsistency, the small-group format and inclusiveness of materials make it appealing for first-timers who want a structured, safe experience.
The combination of theory, pool practice, and open water excursions creates a balanced approach to learning, and the added visit to the Underwater Museum of Art lends a unique cultural twist. The natural beauty of the reefs and marine life you’ll encounter is truly breathtaking—perfect for those eager to see the underwater world firsthand.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, well-organized way to earn your open water certification in a setting renowned for its stunning views, this course is worth considering. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate small groups, personal guidance, and the thrill of exploring new environments.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ

Is this course suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for those with no prior diving experience. The training starts with theory and pool practice to ensure you’re comfortable before heading into open water.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers PADI materials, theory and pool classes, four ocean dives, and the use of all necessary SCUBA equipment. It’s a comprehensive package for new divers.
Are there any extra costs I should know about?
Yes, you’ll need to budget for wetsuit rental (USD 10 per day) and a marine park tax of USD 20, which are paid during the trip.
Where do we meet for the course?
You meet inside the Real Inn hotel and marina, lagoon side. Just mention you’re with Coconut Divers when you check in.
What languages are the instructors available in?
The instructors speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a better learning environment.
What if the weather isn’t good during the course?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the course can be rescheduled or refunded, depending on the situation.
To sum it up, this Cancún 2-Day PADI Open Water course offers a solid introduction to diving in one of the most vibrant marine environments. It combines practical skills with the thrill of exploring colorful reefs and engaging with fascinating underwater art. While it might not be perfect for everyone, especially if you’re seeking luxury or a highly polished experience, it provides good value for anyone eager to dip their toes into the underwater world and earn a globally recognized certification.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cancun
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