3 days Open Water Course | Scuba Diving

Comprehensive 3-Day Open Water Scuba Certification in Funchal

For those eager to begin their underwater adventure, the 3-day Open Water Course offered by Azul Diving Madeira in Funchal, Portugal, provides an immersive and highly praised introduction to scuba diving. Priced at $452.83 per person, this course is designed to suit beginners, with a typical booking lead time of 24 days. The program covers swimming pool sessions, theory, and real diving experiences, culminating in a widely recognized SSI certification. This certification allows graduates to dive up to 18 meters (60 feet) worldwide with a buddy. The tour features a mobile ticket, making it flexible and convenient.

Based in Funchal, the course starts at the Azul Diving Madeira center, a professional and friendly dive shop praised for its skilled and warm staff. The instructors’ dedication and the center’s well-maintained equipment make this a reliable choice for new divers. While lunch and private transportation are not included, all scuba equipment and fees are covered, simplifying the experience. The activity begins at 9:30 am, with most participants completing the training over three days of intensive, yet enjoyable, sessions.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The course costs $452.83 and lasts 3 days.
• Location and Meeting Point: Starts at Azul Diving Madeira in Funchal with convenient access near public transportation.
• Inclusions: Use of scuba equipment, digital training materials, and all fees and taxes are included.
• Training Content: Combines pool sessions, theory, and open-water dives led by highly rated instructors.
• Certification: Finalizes with an SSI certification valid globally, allowing dives up to 18 meters.
• Booking: Most booked 24 days in advance, with a free cancellation policy if canceled 24 hours before.

Starting Point at Azul Diving Madeira

The course begins at Azul Diving Madeira, a SSI and PADI dive center situated in Funchal. This location is praised for its professional and caring staff, with many reviews emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere. The meeting time is at 9:30 am, and the activity concludes back at the center, making it easy to plan your day. The center’s proximity to public transportation simplifies access, and small groups—a maximum of 5 travelers—ensure personalized attention.

Training in the Pool: Building Confidence in a Controlled Environment

The first two days of the course focus on academic learning and pool training. Under the guidance of experienced instructors like Rafa, Sara, Nico, and Guadalupe, participants learn essential skills such as mask clearing, buoyancy control, and air management. The pool sessions are designed to build confidence and familiarity with equipment, helping even the most nervous learners feel at ease underwater.

Many reviews highlight the friendly and patient approach of the instructors, especially for those with little or no water experience. The small class size allows for individual support, which is especially helpful for mastering new skills efficiently. These sessions set a solid foundation for the open-water dives that follow.

Transition to Open-Water Dives in Madeira’s Scenic Waters

After successful pool training, participants head out to Madeira’s beautiful open-water sites. The guided dives are led by highly rated instructors who ensure safety and enjoyment. Reviews mention wreck dives, relaxed shore dives, and diving in cold waters, which showcase the variety of experiences available. The maximum depth permitted on certification dives is 18 meters, enough to explore stunning underwater landscapes and formations.

The diving locations near Madeira offer vibrant marine life and clear waters, making each dive visually rewarding. Instructors like Rafa and Nico are praised for their expert guidance and friendly manner, helping new divers feel comfortable while they develop their skills in real conditions. The diving process emphasizes safety, technique, and fun, with many participants leaving confident and excited about future diving.

Equipment and Fees Included for Hassle-Free Experience

All necessary scuba gear, including masks, fins, wetsuits, and regulators, are included in the price. The fees and taxes are also covered, so there are no hidden costs. This comprehensive approach ensures that beginners can focus on learning without worrying about equipment issues or extra charges.

The equipment quality and maintenance are consistently praised, with many reviews noting the well-kept gear and professional staff who assist with equipment fitting and troubleshooting. The digital training materials provided in participants’ language further enhance the learning process, offering flexibility for review outside of practical sessions.

The Certification: Your Passport to Global Diving

Completing the SSI Open Water Diver Course results in a widely recognized certification, valid worldwide. With this certification, divers can participate in dives with a buddy up to 18 meters deep. Many reviews highlight the sense of achievement and confidence gained during the course, with some saying they feel well-prepared for future adventures.

The certification process is thorough but accessible, with instructors ensuring students understand every aspect. The professional guidance and supportive atmosphere make earning your certificate an enjoyable milestone rather than a stressful challenge.

Booking Process and Flexibility

Most bookings are made about 24 days in advance, reflecting the course’s popularity and solid reputation. The free cancellation policy allows travelers to cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, adding flexibility for changing plans. The tour’s mobile ticket makes it easy to manage reservations and check details on the go.

Participants can expect confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. The small group size of up to 5 travelers ensures personalized attention, especially beneficial during the training and certification process.

Why Choose This Course in Madeira?

Madeira’s scenic coastal waters offer a stunning backdrop for a beginner’s diving experience. The professional team at Azul Diving Madeira, praised for their friendly, knowledgeable, and patient approach, creates an environment ideal for first-timers. The combination of pool training, guided open-water dives, and digital materials makes this course both comprehensive and accessible.

Despite the exclusion of lunch and private transport, the overall value remains high, especially considering the quality of instruction and certification awarded. The small group sizes foster a personalized experience, perfect for those who want to learn at a comfortable pace.

Ideal for New Divers and Water Enthusiasts

This 3-day course is best suited for beginners, including those with little or no water experience. The friendly instructors and small class sizes ensure learners receive personalized attention. Certified divers seeking to learn in a new location or water lovers eager to try diving for the first time will find this program rewarding.

The course strikes a balance between theory, pool practice, and open-water immersion, making it a great first step into the world of scuba diving. Participants leave with a globally recognized certification and memories of Madeira’s underwater beauty.

Final Thoughts on the 3-Day Open Water Course in Funchal

The 3-day Open Water Diver Course in Funchal by Azul Diving Madeira offers an excellent blend of professional instruction, scenic diving sites, and comprehensive training materials. Its competitive price, praised staff, and positive reviews confirm its reputation as a solid choice for beginners. The emphasis on safety, confidence-building, and fun makes this an ideal starting point for anyone looking to explore the underwater world.

While lunch and transportation are not included, these minor considerations do not detract from the overall value and quality. This course is especially suited for water enthusiasts eager to gain their diving certification in a beautiful setting with a reliable, caring team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed for beginners, with thorough pool training and supportive instructors to help build confidence.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers scuba equipment use, digital training materials, all fees and taxes, and three days of intensive instruction.

How deep can I dive once certified?
The SSI certification allows you to dive up to 18 meters (60 feet) with a buddy anywhere in the world.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours prior to the start date.