Gran Canaria: PADI Open Water Diver Course

If you’re dreaming of exploring underwater worlds without needing a lifetime of training, the PADI Open Water Diver Course on Gran Canaria might just be your perfect start. Offered by Blue Water Diving, this 3-day program promises to turn beginners into certified divers, opening the door to adventures across the globe. While this isn’t a course for the faint-hearted or those pressed for time, it provides a solid foundation in scuba diving—delivered in a relaxed, approachable atmosphere.

What we really love about this experience is its small group setting, which means plenty of personal attention, and the flexibility of learning at your own pace. Plus, with the inclusion of quality equipment, insurance, and online manuals, you won’t find many other beginner courses that offer such value. However, one consideration is that log books are not included, so you might want to plan for that if you’re a meticulous record-keeper. This course suits travelers who want a comfortable, hands-on introduction to diving—ideal for those with a sense of adventure, a bit of water confidence, and a desire to learn in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Fast-track certification: Become a PADI Open Water Diver in just 3 days, perfect for travelers with limited time.
• Relaxed learning environment: Small groups (max 8) ensure personalized coaching and plenty of attention.
• Includes all essentials: Dive equipment, online manuals, insurance, and hotel pickup in Puerto Rico are covered.
• Open water experience: Practice in a heated outdoor pool before heading into 4 open water dives off Gran Canaria’s coast.
• Flexible scheduling: Check availability to find the starting times that suit your plans.
• Suitable for all: Minimum age is 10, with performance-based progress, making it accessible for teenagers and adults alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

Somewhat surprisingly, a 3-day scuba course can be both comprehensive and relaxed. This program by Blue Water Diving is designed for those who want to gain certification without feeling rushed. We appreciate that the course takes place in a small group, limited to 8 participants, which tends to foster a supportive atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and skills can be practiced thoroughly.

One thing that stands out is the inclusion of a heated outdoor pool for initial training. This means you’ll get comfortable with your gear and basic skills in a safe, controlled environment before venturing into open water. The four open water dives off Gran Canaria’s coast then allow you to put your skills into real-world practice, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local marine life.

As one reviewer notes, “The program proceeds according to how you master the skills,” which means you’ll have the chance to work at a pace suitable for your comfort level. This adaptability is especially valuable for beginners who might be a bit nervous or unsure about their first time breathing underwater.

That said, consider the log book not being included in the package—an important piece for those who like to keep track of their certifications and dives. If you’re someone who likes to document your underwater journey, you’ll want to purchase one separately.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package offers a comprehensive bundle: a PADI instructor guiding you through every step, an Open Water pack with all necessary materials, online manuals you can review beforehand, dive equipment, and dive insurance. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Puerto Rico simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying nearby.

However, the log book is not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase one locally. This small detail might matter if you’re an enthusiast eager to keep a detailed record of your diving milestones.

The Itinerary and Course Structure

The course unfolds over three days, with a flexible schedule depending on the starting times available. The first day typically involves theory lessons and pool training—a chance to learn about equipment, safety protocols, and basic techniques in a relaxed setting. The heated outdoor pool is praised for its comfort, particularly if you’re nervous about handling gear in cold water.

Participants then progress to 4 open water dives along Gran Canaria’s coast. These dives are performed off the shore, providing access to the island’s underwater scenery, which includes interesting marine life and underwater formations, depending on conditions. The performance-based structure means you only move on to the next skill or dive when you’re ready, which is ideal for building confidence.

One reviewer highlighted, “We loved the way the program proceeded at our own pace,” emphasizing how this tailored approach helps beginners feel more secure. The instructor — fluent in English — provides clear guidance, ensuring that everyone gets the support they need to succeed.

The Marine Environment and Dives

Gran Canaria offers a moderately sheltered coastline, which lends itself well to beginner dives. The waters are generally calm, with visibility often around 15-20 meters—more than enough to appreciate the marine life and underwater features. While the course focuses on fundamental skills, the open water dives also serve as a gentle introduction to the island’s underwater environment.

Expect to see colorful schools of fish, perhaps some octopus, and various crustaceans. The diving conditions are suitable for beginners, with no intense currents or challenging depths. Plus, the scenic backdrop of the island’s coastline makes each dive feel more like a mini-adventure.

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The Learning Experience

The value of this course extends beyond just earning a certification. We loved how learning materials were provided online, allowing students to review content at their own pace before and during the course. This flexibility helps reduce anxiety and promotes better understanding.

The instructor’s role is crucial here, providing patient, clear explanations and hands-on practice. Feedback from previous participants often mentions how approachable and encouraging the staff are, which can make a significant difference for first-time divers.

As one reviewer shared, “The performance-based approach meant I only learned what I was comfortable with, and that boosted my confidence immensely.”

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified in the overview, the package includes diving equipment, insurance, manuals, and hotel transfers, which collectively add up to good value for a three-day course. Compared with other similar courses worldwide, this package offers a lot—especially considering you’re learning in the beautiful setting of Gran Canaria.

The small group size adds to the value, as personalized attention can make all the difference when mastering new skills. If you’re planning a trip to the Canary Islands and want a certification that’s recognized worldwide, this course could be a smart investment.

Remember, the log book is not included, so factor in that additional cost if you want to keep a detailed record of your dives.

Who Should Consider This Course?

This program is perfect for adventure seekers, families, or solo travelers eager to try something new without committing to a weeks-long course. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a practical, hands-on introduction to scuba diving in a beautiful, safe environment.

It’s also suitable for teenagers aged 10 and above, with the Junior Open Water Diver option for 10- to 15-year-olds. If you’re already certified or have tried Discover Scuba, check with the instructor how your previous experience might transfer.

The Sum Up

The Gran Canaria PADI Open Water Diver Course offers a balanced, engaging way to dip your toes into the world of scuba. The combination of professional instruction, small groups, and scenic dives makes it an excellent choice for beginners eager to earn a recognized certification in a tropical setting.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a low-pressure, supportive learning environment while enjoying the island’s natural beauty. The inclusion of necessary gear, insurance, and flexible scheduling makes it a practical, worthwhile adventure—especially if you wish to build a lifelong hobby or simply experience a new way to see the world.

This course provides a solid foundation for future underwater explorations and a memorable trip highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the course package?
The package features a PADI instructor, PADI Open Water pack, online manual and certificate, dive equipment, dive insurance, and hotel pickup and drop-off within Puerto Rico.

Do I need any prior experience?
No prior experience is required. The course is designed for beginners, and the performance-based structure allows you to learn at your own pace.

Is the course suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 10 and above can participate. There is a Junior Open Water Diver program available for those between 10 and 15 years old.

What equipment do I need to bring?
All dive equipment is included in the package, so you don’t need to bring your own gear unless you prefer to.

Are the dives conducted in calm waters?
Yes, the open water dives take place off the coast of Gran Canaria in generally calm, clear waters suitable for beginners.

How long does the certification last?
Once completed, your PADI Open Water Diver certification is valid worldwide for life.

Can I take the course if I am not very confident in the water?
The program is performance-based and proceeds according to your comfort level, so if you’re willing to learn, you should be fine.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Puerto Rico, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

You can check availability for your dates here: