What makes this course especially appealing is the way the training is paced: calm, structured skill work in a heated swimming pool on day one, then two open-water sessions in the ocean on day two. You’ll also get the manual setup so you can do some theory either at the dive center or later at your hotel.

The schedule is tight but not punishing: both days run about 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM, leaving the afternoons open for sun, food, and a slow stroll. It’s a great trade for a beginner who wants results fast.

Key highlights you’ll actually care about

• Small group up to 4 participants so you get more direct attention during skills work
• Heated pool training first to build comfort and control before the ocean
• Manual download and short theory time you can handle at the center or your hotel
• Two open-water sessions on day two applying what you practiced in the pool
• PADI certification goal with a maximum depth of 12 meters after you pass

Why Las Palmas is a smart home base for a beginner course

Las Palmas (on Gran Canaria) is a solid choice for a beginner certification course because the learning format is practical and focused. You’re not signing up for a random “try scuba once” day. You’re signing up for a structured PADI pathway that ends with real certification—after you complete the training requirements.

And since both days end around 2:00 PM, you’re not stuck losing your whole vacation to logistics. The morning is for training; the afternoon is yours. That matters if you like to travel with a rhythm: work, then wander.

The course is run by Blue Water Diving, and you’ll typically be working with an English- and Spanish-speaking instructor. The small group size (limited to 4 participants) is the difference between feeling watched and feeling supported. For a brand-new student, that’s huge.

The real value: pool practice before the ocean

Day one is where you build the foundation. You head to the heated swimming pool onsite and complete the first three training sessions there. For most people, the pool is the confidence-builder. It’s controlled, predictable, and designed for skill learning rather than dramatic scenery.

Here’s what you should expect from that first day structure:

• You’ll practice the core scuba skills you’ll need later
• You’ll have time to make mistakes and correct them without the pressure of open water
• You’ll learn how to manage your gear and breathing in a way that feels manageable

Then comes the “paperwork part” that people worry about, but it’s usually light if you don’t overthink it. Your guides will help you download your open water diver manual, and you can do a bit of theory either at the dive center or in your hotel afterward.

That theory download isn’t just admin. It’s how you connect what you’re doing underwater with why the skills matter. Even a small amount of reading can make the next day feel calmer, because you’ll recognize the terms and concepts when they come up.

Day 1 timing: your morning is training, your afternoon is freedom

Both days start around 8:30 AM and finish around 2:00 PM. On day one, that means:

• You get several pool sessions while you’re fresh
• You still have time to handle the manual basics
• You’re done early enough to enjoy Las Palmas without rushing

You’ll also be glad you know what to pack. Bring swimwear and a towel. Since equipment hire is included, you can travel lighter. (Also: bring a towel even though you’ll be provided with the basics on-site—having your own is often the easiest way to avoid end-of-session scrambling.)

Food and drinks aren’t included, so plan on grabbing lunch after the course ends. This is one of those small details that can make the day feel smooth or stressful, depending on whether you’ve decided where you’ll eat.

Day 2: two open-water sessions in Gran Canaria

Day two moves from “learning mode” to “application mode.” You head to the ocean and complete two open-water sessions. This is where the pool work turns into real underwater experience.

Practically, what that means for you:

• You’ll use the skills you practiced in the heated pool
• You’ll manage your gear and buoyancy in open conditions
• You’ll take in the marine life that Gran Canaria offers

The tone here is important: the goal is certification training, not a sightseeing swim with no structure. You should expect guidance and skill checks. The payoff is that you’re no longer imagining what you learned—you’re using it in the real environment.

And because your day ends around 2:00 PM again, you can return to the surface and enjoy the rest of your vacation without feeling cooked.

How the certification fits your future scuba plans

If you complete the course successfully, you obtain PADI Scuba Diver certification. The certification allows you to dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters.

Why this matters for you: a 2-day beginner course can feel like a “one-off” if it doesn’t lead to something usable. Here, you’re walking away with an internationally recognized framework. That makes your next steps easier—whether that means booking another local training day, joining a beginner-friendly outing, or continuing with additional certification later.

Also, depth limits are not just paperwork. A 12-meter ceiling helps keep the early experiences within a range that’s realistic for new divers. It’s a good stepping stone for learning how to stay calm, slow down, and focus on control.

What’s included (and what you’ll need to plan for)

This course includes:

• Equipment hire
• Manual and certification
• Local hotel pickup and drop off

Those inclusions are part of the value. Equipment and certification fees can add up fast when you book them separately. Getting them bundled makes it easier to budget and keeps you from chasing paperwork on your own while you’re on vacation.

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks

So, build in lunch money and hydration. Since the sessions run until early afternoon, you’re likely eating twice per course day: once before you start, and once after you finish. Simple plan, big payoff.

Small group energy: how it changes the experience

The course is limited to 4 participants. That’s not just a number. It affects how quickly you get help if something feels confusing, and it makes the coaching feel more personal. In a beginner setting, time with your instructor is the real resource.

The reviews are short, but the theme is clear. People specifically praised the team as friendly and attentive, and one person summed it up with everything was perfect. I take that as a sign of good on-site support—exactly what you want when you’re learning a skill that’s unfamiliar.

No one needs scuba to become an anxiety project. A supportive group and a responsive instructor team help you get through the nervous first moments faster.

Price and value: is $371 a fair deal for two days?

At $371 per person for two days, you’re paying for a real training track, not a casual introduction. The value comes from what’s included: equipment hire, manual, certification, and hotel pickup/drop off.

Here’s how I’d think about it as a traveler:

• If you were to arrange gear rental, instruction, and certification separately, the total usually climbs.
• Bundling reduces hassle and keeps your learning consistent across both days.
• A small group (up to 4) also tends to justify the rate because the instructor time per student is higher.

So yes—$371 can be a strong value if you’re comfortable using the afternoons after training. You’ll want downtime and sun time to feel like a complete vacation, not just a course that happens to be in a good location.

Who this course is best for

This is built for beginners who want certification quickly and safely, with a structured progression.

You’ll likely be a great fit if:

• You’re new to scuba and want pool training first
• You want a small group setting
• You like clear goals: finish in 2 days and earn certification
• You want your afternoons free in Las Palmas

You might want to look elsewhere if:

• You’re looking for an all-day excursion with long scenic swims
• You hate doing any theory work (even though it’s described as a little theory after the manual is downloaded)
• You’re traveling with kids or you fall into a medical restriction category

Who should not book (important safety note)

The course isn’t suitable for:

• Children under 10
• Pregnant women
• People with pre-existing medical conditions

It also notes that medical restrictions may apply. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking with the provider or your doctor before committing.

Scuba is fun, but it’s also physical. Training programs list restrictions for a reason—your safety matters more than any itinerary.

What to do with your free afternoons in Las Palmas

Once you’re done by about 2:00 PM, you can shift into vacation mode. The course frees you up to explore at your own pace, and it’s one of the reasons I like a schedule like this.

Since food and drinks aren’t included, plan an easy lunch strategy near where you’re staying. If your hotel is part of the pickup/drop-off route, you’ll waste less time getting back and forth, which makes the afternoon feel longer.

Even if you only do something small—sun time, a local walk, a relaxed meal—having a predictable end time makes the whole trip feel less stressful.

Should you book this 2-Day PADI course in Las Palmas?

Book it if you want a fast, structured beginner certification with pool training first, ocean practice second, and a clear finish line. The inclusion list is strong (equipment, manual, certification, and hotel pickup/drop off), and the small-group size helps you learn without getting lost.

Skip it if you can’t meet the medical criteria, you need an all-day adventure rather than a morning-and-afternoon schedule, or you want zero theory work. Also be honest about your energy: mornings start around 8:30 AM both days.

If you’re a beginner with a calm, practical mindset, this is exactly the kind of course that turns vacation into a real skill—and gives you certification you can build on later.

FAQ

FAQ

Where is this course offered?

It takes place in Las Palmas, located in the Canary Islands, Spain.

How long is the course?

The course lasts 2 days.

What is the price?

The price is $371 per person.

What time does the training run each day?

Each day starts at about 8:30 AM and finishes at about 2:00 PM.

What’s included in the price?

Equipment hire, the manual and certification, and local hotel pickup and drop off are included.

What’s not included?

Food and drinks are not included.

What certification do I get?

After successful completion, you receive PADI Scuba Diver certification.

What depth can I reach with this certification?

The certification allows diving to a maximum depth of 12 meters.

Who is this course not suitable for?

It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (medical restrictions may apply).

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and a towel.

This course runs long enough to build real comfort. You start at 8:30am with the morning launch into skill work, then the sessions generally run about 9am to 2pm each day, ending back at the meeting point.

On day two, you take the skills you practiced and apply them in the local open-water area near Gran Canaria. It also comes with some serious safety admin: you’ll complete a health questionnaire first, and the operator notes that diving within 18 hours of flying isn’t recommended.

Key Things I’d Pay Attention To

• Small group size (max 6) means you get more time, not just a handoff.
• Two-day structure: confined water skills first, then open-water practice.
• Instructor-led confidence building: attention to breathing and calm underwater habits.
• Equipment is included and adjusted for you, not one-size-fits-all.
• Hotel transfers from select hotels can save time and hassle.
• No food or drinks included, so plan your break time.

Two Days of PADI Training, Built for First-Timers

If you’re new to scuba, the biggest stress is usually the same: not the ocean, but your own body. This course is set up to fix that with repetition and clear coaching. Day one is all about controlled skills. You practice until you can do them without thinking too hard.

Day two is where you finally get to feel like you’re doing the real thing. The goal is not to rush you. It’s to give you comfort underwater while you apply the skills from day one in an open-water setting.

The course also has a strong beginner vibe. In the feedback I saw, the training felt custom-fit to each student’s comfort level, and that matters a lot when you’re learning buoyancy, breath control, and basic situational awareness.

And yes, the “real world” part is included: two open-water sessions are part of the package.

Your Daily Schedule: What “9am to 2pm” Feels Like

You’ll start each day around the 9am mark and typically wrap around 2pm. That schedule is long enough for real practice, but it’s not an endless marathon. The operator also lists the start time as 8:30am, so plan on being ready a bit before.

Here’s how it usually plays out in practice:

• Morning energy goes to skills and comfort-building in the confined water area.
• Midday downtime is when you recharge, catch your breath, and get ready for the next step.
• Afternoon time stays focused on finishing the day with steady progress, not last-minute cramming.

On day two, you shift from training conditions to the local open-water environment. During those two open-water sessions, you’ll have the chance to relax while working through the techniques you practiced earlier.

One practical note: since food and drinks aren’t included, don’t assume you’ll be able to just buy something easily on-site every day. I’d budget time to eat before you start, or bring a simple snack plan.

Blue Water Diving and the Meeting Point in Las Palmas

The meeting point is at Blue Water Diving, Calle Olimpicos, C. Doreste y Molina, s/n, 35130 Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not stuck doing a weird last-step transfer puzzle after you’re tired.

The operator also says you’re near public transportation. That’s helpful if your hotel isn’t one of the select pickup locations or if you want independence on day one.

Language is straightforward: the course is offered in English, and that can make a big difference during skills training. When you’re learning breath control and buoyancy, small wording differences can matter.

Finally, the group size is capped at 6 travelers. That’s not just a number. It usually means more individual attention when you need it.

The Instructor Team: Why Confidence Gets Built (Not Promised)

What I like most about this program is the way instruction is described: detailed, patient, and practical. One student specifically highlighted instructor Eileen and the step-by-step way she helped them move from feeling like a beginner to feeling calm underwater.

Another feedback point that really stands out: there was a moment of panic on day two, and instructor Chris helped the student reset—especially around breathing and the mental side of staying safe enough to continue. That kind of response matters because learning scuba isn’t just physical skill. It’s also learning how to stay steady when your brain gets loud.

Other names came up too—Kate and Lily were mentioned in the context of the overall team experience. That suggests you’re not just assigned to one person and left to it. You’re coached as a group, with real support available.

In short: the training focus is on helping you act like a diver—calm, controlled, and aware—rather than just completing checkboxes.

Equipment Included: Less Hassle, Better Fitting

You don’t need to bring scuba gear. The course includes the necessary equipment, and the feedback I saw repeatedly praised it as well adjusted and in great condition.

That’s a quiet win for beginners. If you’re still figuring out how your body should move underwater, having gear that actually fits matters. A regulator that feels wrong, straps that don’t sit right, or a setup that doesn’t match your body can quickly turn practice into frustration.

I’d still treat day one like a fitting day. When you get your gear, take a moment to ask questions and make sure everything feels secure before you start the skills cycle. If something feels off, speak up early. That’s when instructors can fix it fast.

The Open-Water Sessions: What You’ll Do and Why It Matters

The course includes two open-water sessions on the second day. This is where you take the skills learned in the confined water and use them in real open-water conditions.

The feedback also suggests the sites are worth it. Several people mentioned seeing plenty of marine life and even underwater wrecks. You might not see every type of site every day, but the operator clearly works with interesting underwater locations around Gran Canaria.

Even if you’re not chasing wildlife photos, these sessions are about comfort. The course is designed so you can relax while still practicing the skills: buoyancy control, breathing rhythm, and staying aware of your surroundings.

The best part is that the open-water sessions aren’t treated like a jump scare. They’re treated like the next classroom step, just in the ocean.

Transfers From Select Hotels: A Time-Saver That Keeps You Relaxed

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but only for selected hotels. If yours is on the list, this is a big value add because the schedule is tight and the days are long.

Even if your hotel isn’t included, the meeting point is near public transportation. That means you have options, and you won’t have to rely on expensive last-minute taxis if you plan ahead.

For many first-timers, the real benefit isn’t just convenience. It’s emotional. When you’re already nervous about learning something new, fewer logistics to think about helps you focus on the water.

Price and Value: Is $390.52 a Good Deal for Two Days?

At $390.52 per person, this course isn’t the cheapest option you’ll find in the area—but it’s also not just a casual taste session. You’re getting:

• A professional guide
• Two days of instruction
• Equipment included
• Two open-water sessions
• Hotel pickup/drop-off if your hotel qualifies

For beginners, value often comes down to one thing: will you feel safe and supported while learning? The consistent theme in the feedback is that instruction is friendly, competent, and tailored to the student’s skill level—especially around staying calm and breathing properly underwater.

So even though it costs real money, it can be a bargain if you’re trying to get from zero to feeling comfortable without stress spirals.

If you’re the kind of traveler who hates wasting time, this is also a smart use of your holiday. Two structured days means you can get a lot done without stretching the learning curve across an entire week.

Who This Course Suits Best (And When to Consider Another Option)

This course is best for people who want a structured start and prefer hands-on teaching. If you’ve never tried scuba before, the course is built for that. One person specifically said it was great for beginners and that they felt safe and comfortable during both open-water sessions.

It also suits nervous learners, based on how at least one student’s panic was handled on day two. The tone from the feedback isn’t about pushing people blindly through discomfort. It’s about coaching you back into control—especially through breathing.

On the flip side, it’s important to take the health guidance seriously. You’ll be required to complete a health questionnaire. The operator also notes that some pre-existing medical conditions (like asthma or heart conditions) may prevent you from diving, so you should check with your doctor.

Also, they recommend you don’t dive within 18 hours of flying. If you’re arriving from far away and planning to jump straight into scuba, you may want to adjust your travel schedule.

What to Watch For Day One (So You Enjoy Day Two)

Your first day is about skills, not sightseeing. That can be a mental shift if you booked thinking you’d spend most of the time exploring underwater scenery.

Here’s what will make day one smoother:

• Pay attention to your breathing cues and ask questions quickly if anything feels unclear.
• Treat equipment fitting as part of the training, not a quick stop.
• Be honest with your comfort level. The best results come when you tell instructors early that you need more time or more repetition.

Once you’re confident in the confined water skills, the open-water sessions tend to feel more like practice and less like survival.

And yes, you’ll likely leave day two feeling proud. Multiple people described turning into divers who feel calm under water, not just people who completed a course.

Should You Book This Two-Day Scuba Diver Course?

I’d book this if you want a beginner-friendly PADI start with included gear, real professional coaching, and a schedule that actually teaches you—not just tests you.

It’s especially worth it if you want:

• a small group setting (max 6)
• instructor attention to breathing and calm control
• two open-water sessions as part of the course plan
• optional hotel transfers so your day runs smoothly

I would think twice if you’re not planning for meals, since food and drinks aren’t included. I’d also take the health questionnaire and the 18-hour post-flight guidance seriously.

If you want a straight, practical two-day path into scuba skills in Gran Canaria, this setup makes a lot of sense.

FAQ

What’s included in the 2-day course?

The course includes a professional guide, all necessary equipment, two open-water sessions, and hotel pickup/drop-off for selected hotels.

Where do I meet for the course?

You meet at Blue Water Diving, Calle Olimpicos, C. Doreste y Molina, s/n, 35130 Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the course start?

The start time is listed as 8:30am.

How long are the sessions each day?

You typically start around 9am and finish around 2pm each day.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Do I need to complete any health paperwork?

Yes. You’ll complete a health questionnaire prior to diving, and some medical conditions may prevent diving. Diving within 18 hours of flying isn’t recommended.

Is there a limit on group size, and are service animals allowed?

The maximum group size is 6 travelers. Service animals are allowed.