Lisbon: Try Dive in Arrábida Marine Reserve Setubal Sesimbra

If you’re thinking about trying something completely different on your trip to Portugal—something that combines adventure, nature, and a splash of the extraordinary—then the Try Dive experience in Arrábida Marine Reserve might catch your eye. This guided introduction to scuba diving offers beginners a chance to breathe underwater and see the vibrant marine world just an hour from Lisbon.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on professional instruction and safety, ensuring even first-timers feel confident. Plus, the marine park’s diverse sea life and beautiful reefs make for an impressive first encounter with underwater exploration. That said, it’s worth considering that this activity requires good health, and weather conditions can influence the schedule—a small caveat for those who prefer meticulous planning.

This experience is ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to try something memorable without a huge commitment. If you’re a nature lover or someone who simply wants a taste of underwater adventure without diving deep into certifications, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, fun, and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Learn to breathe underwater in a safe, guided setting suitable for beginners.
• Explore reefs and coral gardens, home to over 1000 marine species.
• Certified instructors from top global organizations ensure safety and professional guidance.
• Includes all necessary scuba gear and safety equipment, so you don’t need to bring much.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later features enhance convenience.
• A great value at just $102 per person for a memorable 2-hour adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Accessible Introduction to Underwater Adventure

We loved the way this experience bridges the gap between curiosity and confidence. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater, this Try Dive allows you to do so in a controlled, welcoming environment. The Prof. Luiz Saldanha Marine Park is perfect for this, offering calm reefs and colorful coral gardens that are home to more than a thousand marine species. From lobsters and octopuses to sea stars and sea horses, the diversity here is staggering—certain species exclusive to this sanctuary.

The tour begins with a clear safety briefing and gear introduction. Here, your instructor—certified by CMAS and SSI—will walk you through the basics, ensuring you feel comfortable before entering the water. The adaptation session is a highlight, as you learn to breathe while submerged, gradually gaining confidence. Many participants, as reviews attest, start out stressed but finish with big smiles and a sense of achievement.

Once in the water, your guided experience allows you to see the rich marine life up close, feeling safe with professional oversight. The reef environment is shallow enough to easily observe marine life, yet vibrant enough to feel like you’re in a whole new world. After approximately 2 hours, you’ll return to the boat, often feeling surprised at how much you learned and experienced in such a short time.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The experience is designed to be straightforward and accessible. It’s generally around 2 hours long, with the exact start times depending on booking availability. You’ll meet at the marina in Sesimbra or nearby, where you’ll be greeted by your guides.

After a brief introduction, you’ll gear up with full scuba equipment, including a 12l or 15l tank, ballast, and a mask. The guides are patient and friendly, making it easy for first-timers to follow instructions. Expect a short adaptation session in the water, where you’ll practice breathing and moving with your gear.

The guided underwater tour then begins, taking you through coral gardens and reef formations. Your instructor will point out notable marine life, sharing insights about the species and the environment. According to reviews, guides are highly knowledgeable and approachable, making the experience feel personal and engaging.

Once the dive is complete, you’ll return by speedboat to the starting point, often feeling proud and energized. The entire process is well-organized, with safety and fun balanced perfectly.

Marine Life and Environment: Why It Matters

The marine park’s diversity of sea life is a major attraction. Some species are endemic to this zone, making your experience even more special. You’ll see anemones, gorgónias (a type of sea fan), lobsters, and octopuses, which are always a hit. Stingrays glide gracefully in the sand, and sea horses add a whimsical touch.

One review emphasizes how the instructors’ knowledge enhances the experience: “The instructors and briefing was excellent… my kids thoroughly enjoyed it,” highlighting its appeal for families. Another reviewer remarked, “The whole team was so patient, professional, and helpful,” which can make all the difference in a beginner adventure.

The biodiversity here is considered one of the most diverse seabeds in Europe, thanks to the protection zone status of the park. The reefs and coral gardens form a vibrant backdrop for your underwater exploration, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in marine ecology.

The Value: Price, Inclusions, and Practicalities

At $102 per person, this experience provides excellent value for what’s included. You get full scuba gear, a professional instructor, safety insurance, and a certificate of participation—all the essentials to make your first UNDERWATER experience smooth and safe. The speedboat transfer and safety support are also included, which means hassle-free logistics.

It’s worth noting that transportation isn’t included unless you request it at an extra cost. For those staying in Lisbon, the trip is less than an hour’s drive, making it a practical day trip. The booking process is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

The tour operates with a minimum of two participants, so if you’re traveling alone or in a small group, it might be worth checking availability early. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with specific health issues, so make sure you’re eligible before booking.

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Authentic Experiences from Past Participants

Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, which helps shy or nervous participants feel at ease. One person shared: “The lady was very calm and patient; she answered all our questions and wasn’t in a rush at all.” This reflects the atmosphere of patience and professionalism that guides bring.

Another reviewer described the entire experience as “worth every penny,” noting how even those initially stressed or unsure managed to enjoy it thanks to the team’s support. The feedback underscores how personalized guidance and safety are core strengths of this tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits beginners eager to try scuba diving without prior certification. It’s ideal for families with kids over 10, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a taste of the underwater world. It’s also perfect for celebrating special events like birthdays or bachelor parties in a unique way.

People with respiratory or heart issues, or pregnant women, should skip this activity for safety reasons. The tour’s focus on safety, professional guidance, and stunning marine environments makes it a memorable, confidence-boosting adventure for many.

The Sum Up

This Try Dive in Arrábida Marine Reserve offers a well-rounded introduction to the underwater world, combining safety, natural beauty, and professionalism. The guides are clearly dedicated to making beginners feel comfortable, and the marine environment is spectacular, teeming with over 1000 marine species. It’s a fantastic value for anyone wanting a fun, educational experience that’s just a short drive from Lisbon.

If you’re curious about what it feels like to breathe underwater or want a memorable story to tell, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy nature, adventure, and discovering new skills in a safe setting. The combination of stunning scenery, expert instruction, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it an experience worth considering.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, exploring for the first time, or just seeking a different kind of adventure, this activity’s friendly guides and rich marine life ensure you’ll leave with lasting memories—and maybe a new hobby.

FAQ

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children over 10 years old. The activity is designed with safety and beginner comfort in mind.

Do I need to bring any equipment?
No, all scuba gear, including tanks, ballast, and masks, are provided. Just bring swimwear, a towel, and a hair tie.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long does the experience last?
The activity typically lasts around 2 hours, depending on the schedule and group size.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation included?
Transportation isn’t included but can be requested at an extra cost.

What if the weather conditions are bad?
The experience is subject to meteorological and safety conditions. If canceled, an alternative or re-scheduling will be proposed.

This guided scuba sampling in Arrábida offers a genuine taste of the underwater world for beginners in a safe, friendly environment. For those in search of an authentic, memorable adventure close to Lisbon, it’s hard to go wrong.

You can check availability for your dates here: