Introductory Scuba Dive in the Marine Reserve, from San José

The introductory dive is the first scuba dive for someone who has never dived, with an instructor beside you, in the waters of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar natural park, a marine reserve since 2001. In San José it is organised by Isub San José, a diving centre opened in the village in 1998, at Calle Babor, 8, a short walk from the beach.

From the dry briefing to twelve metres

The morning starts at the centre: the instructor explains how the equipment works and the basic principles of scuba diving. Then you put on the equipment and practise some basic exercises in a shallow, calm area where you can stand. When you are comfortable, comes the introductory dive, always at less than 12 metres.

The whole activity lasts about three hours. Underwater you will spend on average about 45 minutes: the centre explains that the more relaxed you are, the longer your air lasts. The ratio of students per instructor is small, so the instructor keeps an eye on you the whole time.

Price and what is included

The introductory dive costs €120 per person on the 2026 rates, with VAT and rental of all the equipment. If you don't want a tank, the centre offers guided snorkelling for €42 and a freediving introduction for €90. If you like it, the introductory dive is valid for a year to count as the first dive of the beginner course at any PADI centre; at Isub itself, the Open Water costs €450 and the Scuba Diver €345.

The medical questionnaire

Before diving you must fill in a medical questionnaire, the one required by Royal Decree 550/2020 on diving. Depending on your answers, you may have to bring it signed by a doctor, so fill it in at home with days to spare. The website does not publish a minimum age: if you are going with minors, ask when booking.

When and how to book

The centre works all year round, as long as the sea allows; if not, the day is changed. Book in advance on its booking website, on 950 380 004 or at [email protected], especially in summer, because groups are small.

If you still want more water, the kayak with snorkelling explores the marine reserve's coast from above. To sleep a short walk from the centre, the Hotel Don Ignacio is on San José's seafront promenade, and Casa Miguel on the main street.