Sesimbra: Open Water Diver Course with 5 Dives

If you’re interested in starting your scuba diving journey, the Sesimbra: Open Water Diver Course with 5 Dives offers a structured, beginner-friendly experience in Portugal’s Lisbon District. Led by Mega Dive, this 3-day program provides full certification that allows you to dive up to 18 meters anywhere in the world. With a rating of 4.6, the course combines thorough theoretical learning, practical skill development, and immersive ocean exploration, making it especially appealing for those new to diving or seeking a safe, guided introduction to the sport. The small group size—limited to 4 participants—ensures personalized attention from certified, experienced instructors.

This course is perfect for ages 10 and up, emphasizing safety, comfort, and confidence in the water. The beachfront training in the Atlantic Ocean takes place within the Marine Park Reserve of Sesimbra, an area renowned for its calm waters and biodiversity. While the program is beginner-friendly, it requires participants to bring appropriate gear and be non-swimmers or pregnant women are not suited for this experience.

Key Points

• 3-day course in Sesimbra covers theory, skills, and ocean dives
• Small group environment with a maximum of 4 participants
• Professional instructors ensure a calm, safety-focused teaching style
• Beginner-friendly dive sites within the UNESCO-recognized Arrábida Biosphere Reserve
• Includes 5 dives in the Atlantic Ocean, allowing practical experience
• Certification enables diving up to 18 meters worldwide

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The Course Overview at Mega Dive Center in Sesimbra

This Open Water Diver Course is designed specifically for beginners, regardless of whether you’ve tried water activities before. The course duration of 3 days allows ample time to learn, practice, and complete the required dives. The Mega Dive Center staff, well-rated at 4.6, sets a welcoming tone with their professional and friendly team.

Participants will learn the fundamentals of scuba diving, including essential safety procedures, equipment use, and underwater communication. The theory sessions are followed by practical exercises in controlled water environments, allowing students to practice skills such as mask clearing, regulator recovery, and buoyancy control. The final part involves open water dives in the Atlantic, where learners get a chance to apply their skills in real ocean conditions.

The location in Sesimbra is ideal for beginners, offering calm waters and minimal current, making it easier to focus on learning. The course follows international standards, ensuring your certification is recognized globally.

Exploring the UNESCO-Recognized Arrábida Biosphere Reserve

One of the most striking aspects of this experience is the opportunity to dive within the Arrábida Biosphere Reserve. Recognized by UNESCO, this reserve is celebrated for its diverse marine life and protected environment.

While the training occurs in calm waters, the full ocean dives reveal the area’s biodiversity and scenic underwater landscapes. This setting makes the experience both safe and memorable, as the marine reserve’s rich ecosystem offers a glimpse of the Portuguese Atlantic’s vitality.

Participants can expect to see various marine species and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The biodiversity adds an enriching layer to the practical training, turning the course into a chance to appreciate marine conservation efforts firsthand.

How the Ocean Dives Are Structured

The 5 ocean dives are conducted in the Atlantic Ocean, specifically within the Marine Park Reserve. These dives are the highlight, providing real-world practice in a controlled yet authentic environment.

Each dive allows participants to demonstrate and refine their skills learned during the theoretical and pool sessions. The calm, clear waters of Sesimbra make it easier to observe marine life and enjoy the underwater scenery. The small group setting ensures that instructors can give individual guidance during each dive, enhancing safety and learning.

The ocean dives are designed to help students gain confidence and experience the sensations of diving in open water, setting a solid foundation for future dives worldwide.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

This 3-day course begins with theory and confined water practice, followed by open water dives in the Atlantic. The small group limit of 4 participants guarantees a more personalized experience, with instructors able to address individual needs and questions.

Participants are encouraged to bring essentials like swimwear, a windbreaker, change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and flip-flops. The meeting point is at the Mega Dive Center in Sesimbra, which is easy to reach from Lisbon.

The course is offered in both Portuguese and English, and wheelchair accessibility is available, making it accessible to a broader range of participants.

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Safety and Environmental Responsibilities

Mega Dive emphasizes a calm, safety-focused approach, which is ideal for beginners. The instructors are certified, ensuring that all safety procedures are followed during lessons and dives.

Participants are asked not to litter or touch marine life, supporting the protection of the UNESCO Marine Park. The course is designed to build confidence and respect for the environment, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious adventurers.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The booking process offers flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

Timing is flexible, with start times available across the 3-day span, allowing participants to choose sessions that fit their travel schedules.

Who Should Enroll in This Course?

This course is perfect for complete beginners, especially those over age 10, looking for a safe introduction to scuba diving. It’s ideal for families, adventurers, or anyone curious about exploring underwater worlds.

Participants should be non-swimmers or comfortable in the water, and pregnant women or children under 10 are advised not to participate.

The course is accessible for those with wheelchairs and offers instruction in both Portuguese and English.

Final Thoughts on the Sesimbra Open Water Diver Course

The Sesimbra: Open Water Diver Course with 5 Dives provides a comprehensive, beginner-friendly way to start exploring the underwater world. With professional guidance, small groups, and the beautiful backdrop of the Marine Park Reserve, it combines learning and adventure seamlessly.

The certification you earn is recognized globally, opening doors to dive anywhere in the world. While the program is not suitable for non-swimmers or pregnant women, it offers a safe, enjoyable experience for most participants seeking an introduction to scuba.

For anyone looking to unlock a new hobby in a biodiverse and protected environment, this 3-day course in Sesimbra stands out as a trustworthy and rewarding choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the course?
The course lasts 3 days, including theory, confined water training, and open water dives.

How many dives are included?
Participants complete 5 ocean dives in the Atlantic Ocean during the course.

What is the maximum depth I will reach?
The certification allows diving up to 18 meters.

Is the course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed specifically for beginners with no prior experience needed.

What should I bring for the course?
Participants should bring swimwear, a windbreaker, change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and flip-flops.

Are the instructors experienced?
Yes, the certified instructors are recognized for their professionalism and calm, safety-oriented teaching style.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the course accessible to everyone?
The course is wheelchair accessible and offered in Portuguese and English.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Participants must be over 10 years old, non-pregnant, and non-swimmers are not suitable.

Where is the course held?
The training takes place at the Mega Dive Center in Sesimbra, with ocean dives at nearby marine sites.

How do I book?
You can reserve now and pay later, with flexible start dates, giving you time to plan your trip.

What makes this course stand out?
The small group size and professional instructors combined with diverse marine life within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve make this a top choice for novice divers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby