Try scuba diving in Dahab: your first dive
Never dived before? Breathe underwater for the first time on a real Red Sea reef with SSI Try Scuba, one-to-one with a certified instructor. Prefer PADI? See PADI Discover Scuba Diving below. No certification or experience needed.
What happens on the day
We start with a short, relaxed briefing on how the equipment works and the few skills you need. Then we practise in shallow, calm water where you can stand up. When you feel ready, we swim out over the reef together, with the instructor right beside you the whole time.
The whole experience takes about half a day, including around 45 minutes underwater.
Where we dive
Most first dives are at Lighthouse, Dahab's house reef: a gentle sandy slope, no current, and plenty to see in shallow water: corals, lionfish, morays and often a turtle.
Who can do it
Anyone from about 10 years old in reasonable health. You fill in a short medical questionnaire before the dive. Some conditions need a doctor's sign-off, so check it before your holiday. You do not need to be a strong swimmer.
Price and what is included
Instructor, all equipment and tanks are included.
| Course | Price |
|---|---|
| SSI Try Scuba (first dive) | Ask on WhatsApp |
| SSI Open Water Diver | Ask on WhatsApp |
| SSI Advanced Open Water Diver | Ask on WhatsApp |
| SSI Scuba Skills Update | Ask on WhatsApp |
💬 Get the exact price for your dates
Safety
Discover Scuba dives stay shallow, no deeper than 12 m, and you are always within arm's reach of your instructor. Most people are surprised how calm it feels.
From first dive to certified diver
Loved it? Your first dive can count towards the SSI Open Water Diver course, so you can continue straight away and leave Dahab as a certified diver.
Prefer PADI?
The PADI version of this first dive is called Discover Scuba Diving. It follows the same idea and the same 12 m limit.
PADI Discover Scuba Diving in Dahab →
Questions
Can I dive in Dahab without a license?
Yes. SSI Try Scuba (often called Discover Scuba) is made for people with no certification, always with an instructor right beside you.
How deep do you go on a first dive?
No deeper than 12 m, and usually much shallower. The best colours on the reef are in the shallows anyway.
Is it safe if I am not a good swimmer?
Yes. You need to be comfortable in the water, but you do not need to be a strong swimmer.
What is the minimum age for Discover Scuba?
About 10 years old.