Reviewed · SCUBA DIVING
Los Cristianos: Try Dive for beginners
What makes this Los Cristianos beginner try scuba interesting is that you learn breathing, balance, and underwater communication in a safe, controlled setup. I like the small group cap of 4, because you get real, hands-on help, and you get to float and explore at up to 5 meters.
One possible drawback: it is not for everyone. This experience is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments, and you are asked to skip alcohol and drugs.
If you are nervous, that is normal. The instructor style here, including guide Martin, is built around calming first-timers and getting you comfortable step by step.
Key things you will notice on this Los Cristianos try scuba

- Small group of 4 means fewer people to manage and more time for your questions
- Up to 5 meters keeps the experience beginner-friendly and closely supervised
- Underwater communication basics so you can feel in control right away
- SSI certification included, plus diving insurance for peace of mind
- Beginner marine life moments you can realistically spot at this depth, including stingrays and fish
- Water, coffee, and beer included after your session, if you want to linger a bit
Why Los Cristianos and a 5-meter plan works for first-timers

Los Cristianos is a smart choice for a first scuba experience because the whole setup is designed around comfort, not performance. You stay shallow, with a max depth of 5 meters, so you get the big wow factor of being underwater without turning it into a big physical challenge.
At this depth, the goal is simple: learn how to manage your breathing and body position while you focus on what is around you. You are not asked to sprint, chase, or show off. The instructor keeps things controlled, which matters when you are trying to get over that first wave of nerves.
Another thing I like about a beginner-friendly depth target is that it makes the underwater world feel close. You can look at fish, notice movements, and get that floating feeling without constantly worrying about what the next step is.
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Ocean Dreams Tenerife meeting point and a small-group reality check

You meet at Ocean Dreams Tenerife s.l. in Los Cristianos, at the operator’s center. The small group size is limited to 4 participants, and that changes the experience in practical ways.
With a tiny group, you spend less time waiting and more time practicing. Your instructor can correct your posture quickly. They can also check details that matter for comfort, like how you are holding your body, how you equalize, and how steady your breathing sounds.
It also makes the whole session feel more personal. You are more likely to get answers in real time instead of after a group briefing. If you are the type who needs reassurance, this setup helps.
The gear and the first safety briefing, before you ever get wet

Before you go in, you get a safety briefing and basic knowledge of how scuba works. You also get the equipment included, so you are not shopping for gear at the last minute or guessing what you are missing.
The training focuses on fundamentals:
- how the regulator and breathing feel underwater
- basic techniques for staying stable
- communication underwater, so you understand what your instructor needs you to do
- how to stay relaxed so you are not fighting your own body
This is where you benefit most. If you have ever tried a new breathing pattern while stressed on land, you already know the rule: calm body, better breathing. The same logic applies underwater. You might feel a jolt of panic at first. That does not mean you are doing it wrong. It usually means your brain is learning a new rhythm.
Learning underwater communication and breathing, with Martin-style patience

The heart of the experience is learning the basics while an instructor is right there. Your job is mostly to follow instructions, practice what you are shown, and then let yourself enjoy the aquatic environment.
A key part is underwater communication. Even at 5 meters, things happen fast. You need simple, clear signals for adjustments, breathing checks, and staying together. You also need to know what the instructor expects from you so there is less guesswork.
In the experience reports tied to this operator, one theme comes up again and again: Martin puts first-timers at ease. People describe getting nervous before entering the water, then gradually settling once they are walked through each step. If you struggle with that first breath underwater, the approach is to slow everything down and reassure you that you have time to get used to it.
That reassurance matters because many beginners blame themselves when they feel uneasy. But the training here is designed for the real thing you are worried about: breathing underwater for the first time.
You can also take comfort from the multilingual support. Instructors are available in Spanish, English, Czech, German, Russian, and Croatian, so you should be able to understand instructions clearly. Clear communication reduces stress more than most people expect.
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Your 3-hour session, step by step (and what you will likely feel)

This experience runs for 3 hours, and you should think of it as a short lesson plus a controlled underwater exploration. The timing works well because beginners often do best with shorter blocks of practice instead of a long stretch where nerves build.
While the exact minute-by-minute flow can vary, here is what you should expect in plain terms:
- Meet and gear up at Ocean Dreams Tenerife in Los Cristianos.
- Safety briefing and setup basics, including how you will communicate underwater.
- Water entry and technique practice at beginner depth.
- A chance to view marine life while you apply the basics you learned.
- Return to the center to wrap up.
What could slow you down? Usually it is comfort-related, not skill. If you need extra time to settle into breathing or to feel stable in your position, your instructor will adjust. That is the point of having a small group and staying shallow.
For your mindset: try to treat this like training. Your first goal is not to conquer fear. Your goal is to learn the rhythm, relax your body, and start noticing what is around you.
Marine life at beginner depth: what to hope for (without guarantees)
One of the best parts of this try scuba experience is the moment you realize you can actually look around. At up to 5 meters, you get a real underwater view, and you start to notice how different the world looks with water pressure and slow movement.
From the experience descriptions tied to Ocean Dreams Tenerife, you might be in for close encounters or at least strong sightings, including fish and, in some cases, stingrays and even an octopus. One person also describes spotting a seahorse during their first underwater period.
Important note: marine life is never a strict checklist. Water conditions, time of day, and local movement all affect what you see. Still, the training plan sets you up to enjoy what you find, because you are not overwhelmed by complex tasks underwater.
So if you want a first scuba moment that feels magical but stays manageable, this depth and guided approach is built for that.
SSI certification, insurance, and equipment: where the value actually comes from

At $94 per person, the best way to judge value is to look at what is included and what you would otherwise have to pay for.
This experience includes:
- diving equipment
- SSI certification
- diving insurance
- instructor guidance
- basic knowledge of techniques for diving and communicating underwater
- water, coffee, beer
The two big value drivers for many first-timers are the SSI certification and the insurance. Certification gives you a real credential trail, which can matter if you want to continue later. Insurance is one of those items people usually ignore until they need it. Here, it is already handled.
Equipment being included also saves money and stress. Trying to figure out sizing and gear details on your own, especially for your first time, is a fast way to add nervousness.
Photos are not included, so if you want underwater images, plan ahead and ask what is available on-site. Don’t assume you will get a free photo package.
Who this try scuba is for, and who should skip it

This is ideal if you truly want a first-time introduction and you are open to learning. You do not need previous experience, and the instructor stays with you at all times in a controlled, safe way.
It is also a good fit if you want a guided experience where you can ask questions and get reassurance without feeling rushed.
This is not suitable for:
- children under 10
- pregnant women
- people with mobility impairments
If any of these apply, skip this option. It is better to find an experience that matches your needs safely.
Also, you should avoid alcohol and drugs. That is not just a rule for liability. It is about keeping your body steady and your breathing controlled.
What to bring and how to show up ready to enjoy

The list is refreshingly simple:
- Swimwear
That is it. You do not need to arrive with scuba gear or extra items. You do need to show up ready to go.
A smart mindset tip: if you tend to run cold or feel stiff in water, think about your comfort before you arrive. Being comfortable helps your breathing feel easier and makes the training phase go smoother.
And if you have a day where you are already exhausted, consider rescheduling. A beginner scuba session is not physically extreme, but you are learning a new body rhythm. You will do better with decent sleep and a calm start.
Booking decision: should you book this Los Cristianos try scuba?
I think this is a strong booking if:
- you are a true beginner or mostly new to water activities
- you want small-group attention and a calm instructor approach
- you want real structure, including basic skills and communication
- you care about getting SSI certification and having insurance handled
I would pause if:
- you fall into one of the not-suitable categories listed by the operator
- you expect a casual tourist swim with no training. This is a learning experience first, and the fun grows as you get comfortable
- you want photos included in the price
If you book, go in with one goal: get comfortable. Once you can breathe and relax, the underwater world does the rest.
FAQ
How long is the Los Cristianos try scuba experience?
It lasts 3 hours.
Do I need prior scuba experience?
No previous experience is necessary, so it is suitable for beginners.
What depth will I reach?
You will swim with an instructor at a depth of up to 5 meters.
How large is the group?
The group is limited to 4 participants.
What languages are instructors available in?
Instructors are available in Spanish, English, Czech, German, Russian, and Croatian.
What is included in the price?
Included are diving equipment, SSI certification, diving insurance, basic knowledge of techniques for scuba and underwater communication, an instructor, and water plus coffee and beer.
Are photos included?
No, photos are not included.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear.
Who is this not suitable for?
It is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, and people with mobility impairments.
Can I cancel for a full refund?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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