Eco – Try Dive

Introduction

Thinking about dipping your toes into the underwater world without a long-term commitment? The Eco – Try Dive program in the Setubal District, Portugal, offers a beginner-friendly glimpse into scuba diving, with a special focus on eco-consciousness and marine preservation. Whether you’re a first-timer or just curious about what lies beneath the waves, this experience promises both fun and a chance to contribute to protecting the ocean.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines professional safety standards with meaningful environmental action. You’ll learn about marine life in the Luíz Saldanha Marine Reserve and get a taste of what it’s like to explore the sea without diving into a full certification. Plus, the small group size and attentive instructors make it feel more like a personal adventure than a generic tour.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is about introductory diving—not a full-fledged certification—so if you’re dreaming of a long-term diving hobby, you’ll want to explore more advanced options later on. Still, for those seeking an authentic, eco-focused introduction to the underwater world, this tour is a superb choice. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to contribute positively to marine conservation.

Key Points

• Eco-focused experience that emphasizes helping clean and preserve the seabed
• Professional safety standards with instructor-to-participant ratios of 1:2
• Stunning marine biodiversity in the Luíz Saldanha Marine Reserve
• Accessible for beginners with no prior certification needed
• Small group experience for personalized attention
• Inclusion of a “Mission Deep Blue” certificate that recognizes your contribution to ocean health

An In-Depth Look at the Try Dive Experience

What is the Try Dive program?

This is not just a quick splash in the pool; it’s a genuine introduction to scuba diving in either confined or open waters. Hosted at the Anthia Diving Center in Sesimbra, the tour offers a chance to see the marine environment firsthand, guided by highly trained instructors. The experience typically lasts around 4 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity.

Why is it special?

What sets this experience apart is the eco-dive focus. Participants aren’t just exploring; they’re actively involved in helping to clean the seabed. This aspect appeals to environmentally conscious travelers who want their adventure to contribute to marine preservation. As one reviewer pointed out, the team is “brilliant at finding the right balance between professional and safe, and having fun,” which reassures nervous first-timers that safety and enjoyment go hand in hand.

How does the program work?

You begin at the Anthia Diving Center in Sesimbra, where you’ll meet your instructor. The tour starts at 2:30 pm, giving plenty of daylight to enjoy the water. Before entering the water, you’ll receive a full briefing on equipment and safety procedures, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and prepared.

Once in the water, you’ll be equipped with all necessary gear, which is included in the price. The instructor-to-participant ratio is 1:2, so you’ll receive plenty of personal attention. Whether you prefer to start in confined waters or venture into open water depends on conditions and your comfort level. Under supervision, you’ll get a chance to float, breathe, and explore the marine world.

The marine environment and biodiversity

In the conversations and reviews, many highlight the clear waters and abundant marine life. The Luíz Saldanha Marine Reserve, where the tour takes place, boasts over 1500 species, making it a fascinating spot for nature lovers. You’ll likely see a variety of fish, perhaps some crustaceans, and possibly other marine creatures in this protected habitat.

What about safety?

Safety is a consistent theme in reviews. The team at Anthia Diving Center never neglects safety and emphasizes continuous training for their staff. Several reviewers mention feeling completely safe during their experience, with one noting, “The staff was very professional and very kind. I had a marvelous experience and felt safe at all times.” This reassurance makes the experience accessible to beginners.

The “Mission Deep Blue” certificate

One of the unique features is the certification you’ll receive at the end—a “Mission Deep Blue”—which recognizes your effort to help preserve the seabed. It’s a small but meaningful reminder that your participation is contributing to marine health.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The price of around $103 per person is quite reasonable considering all gear is provided, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and tanks. There’s no need to bring your own equipment, which simplifies planning.

The experience does not include lunch, so travelers should plan accordingly—perhaps grab a snack before or after. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Anthia Diving Center in Sesimbra, accessible by public transport and close to other attractions.

Group size and atmosphere

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the environment feels intimate, allowing for more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. Several reviews mention the friendly staff and how they made everyone feel comfortable, regardless of their experience level.

Additional considerations

• Travelers should have moderate physical fitness due to the nature of the activity.
• Service animals are allowed, which can be helpful for travelers with disabilities.
• The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rebooked for another day, with a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Authentic Experiences and Participant Feedback

The overwhelmingly positive reviews speak volumes about the quality of the experience. Participants frequently mention the professionalism of the staff and the stunning underwater scenery. One reviewer called it “a marvelous experience,” emphasizing how safe and fun the whole process was.

Another noted that the instructors were attentive and listening to individual needs, which is especially important for beginners. Several reviews highlight the opportunity to see a vibrant marine environment while contributing to its preservation—a rare balance that makes this tour stand out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those curious about diving but not ready for certification, or anyone interested in environmental conservation. It’s perfect for families, groups with children (as young as 12), or solo travelers eager for a meaningful adventure.

If you’re looking for a safe, professional, and eco-conscious introduction to the underwater world, this tour offers excellent value. The small group size and personalized attention mean you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, and the focus on marine protection adds an extra layer of satisfaction to your trip.

The Sum Up

The Eco – Try Dive experience in Sesimbra offers more than just a glimpse into underwater life—it’s a chance to connect with marine ecosystems and contribute positively to their preservation. With professional guides, stunning marine biodiversity, and an eco-friendly focus, this tour provides an authentic introduction to scuba diving that’s safe, fun, and meaningful.

Whether you’re a total beginner, traveling with family, or simply want to experience Portugal’s natural beauty from a new perspective, this activity delivers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s a perfect choice for environmentally conscious travelers eager to explore the ocean’s secrets without a long-term commitment.

FAQ

Is prior experience necessary to participate?
No, this is an introductory program designed for beginners. You don’t need any previous scuba experience, just a willingness to learn and a moderate physical fitness level.

What equipment is included?
All necessary scuba gear—wetsuits, masks, fins, tanks—is provided. You won’t need to bring any personal equipment unless you prefer to.

How long does the experience last?
The entire activity lasts approximately 4 hours, beginning at 2:30 pm, which allows you plenty of time to enjoy the water and relax afterward.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 12 have participated successfully. The staff are attentive to safety and individual needs, making it family-friendly.

What is the “Mission Deep Blue” certificate?
It’s a certificate awarded at the end of the tour, recognizing your effort to help clean and preserve the seabed. It’s a small yet meaningful token of your contribution.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the activity. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for being in water. Since equipment is provided, just bring your enthusiasm and a moderate physical fitness level. Remember to consider weather conditions and plan for some snacks or a meal afterward.

In the end, the Eco – Try Dive tour in Sesimbra offers a genuine, eco-minded introduction to the underwater world, guided by knowledgeable professionals in a beautiful marine reserve. It’s a fantastic way to see Portugal’s natural aquatic treasures while helping to keep them healthy.