Frequently asked questions about diving in Lanzarote

What is the water temperature in Lanzarote?

In winter the water temperature ranges from 17-19 degrees Celsius. Until the end of summer temperature rises up slowly to a maximum of 25 degrees.

How is the visibility underwater?

Since Lanzarote is an island located in the Atlantic Ocean, we have to adapt regularly to tides, wind and waves. Usually the visibility is about 20-35m, on a bad day it might drop down to 15m. Visibility also depends a lot on the dive site and daily conditions, therefore we try our best to choose great dive sites.

What’s the best diving season in Lanzarote?

We are so lucky being located in the Canary Islands. We operate all year long, so does most of the marine life! Obviously, during winter periods the weather is not as constant and predictable as in summer, but also the island is in a more relaxed state of mind. Especially in winter season you will notice that there are loads of angle sharks and different kind of rays to see, as these species prefer the temperature of the colder water.

How big are the diving groups?

At Scuba Legends we only work in small groups. For courses and dive excursions we are usually 1 to 4 divers in a group, plus guide or diving instructor. The groups for technical diving courses and excursions are usually smaller than in recreational diving. If you prefer a private instructor for you and/or your family and friends, check out our VIP service. Contact us for further details.

Can I book a private guide or instructor?

Yes, of course! Sometimes it is better to have an exclusive guide/dive instructor just for you or your private group. Many divers like to train certain skills, need more, others less training and do not want to feel pressured by the rest of the group. Therefore, on request and availability, we offer all our excursions, recreation and technical diving courses with a private guide or instructor. Please contact us in advance for prices and availability.

Which is the best resort for diving in Lanzarote?

Puerto del Carmen, no doubt. We are lucky to have some of the most amazing dive sites, by shore and boat, right in front of our doors. The good news is that many dive sites are well protected from wind and weather, easily accessible and enjoyable for all levels of experience.

What’s the marine life like in Lanzarote?

We believe that there is a lot of diverse marine life to see. Our favourites are the angle sharks. Also, we have butterfly and electronic as well as sting rays. We love to greet our followers, the big groupers and the parrot fish. Shoals of barracudas, trumpet fish, canarian lobsters, shrimps, groupers, crabs, flounders and nudibranchs. Our instructors love to find and point out marine life for you, if you are lucky, he might even find sea horses or frog fish for you. Sometimes, during the boat rides, we get surprised by turtles, dolphins or whales on the surface. Obviously, we are not a tropical destination, but one thing is sure, there is plenty of stuff to enjoy. Our instructors love diving in Lanzarote, so will you!

Will there be a toilet available between dives?

Depending on the dive site, there might be a public toilet or a bar available. If we do our surface interval at the dive site or on the boat, feel free to use the nature! Hydration is very important, even more when diving, please make sure you drink enough water.

How deep will I dive?

This depends on your level of experience, weather conditions and the course you might be taking. We remain within the framework of the PADI standards and the Spanish law.

What should I bring for diving?

Bring your diving certifications, diving insurance and, if available, your medical statement.

Sunscreen, bathing suit, towels and changing clothes are also recommended.

A hat or beanie can be useful for boat dives. Depending on the dive site, it can be a bit windy, so we recommend you wear a sweater in winter.

You can leave your personal belongings in the dive center or in the locked car, but please be aware that we do not take any liability for lost items. Please only bring what you really need.

Should I bring food and drinks?

Feel free to bring snacks and drinks with you. Nonetheless, if you are doing a course or staying several days with us, there is a supermarket just below the dive center and a restaurant next door. During the dives we will provide some water and cookies. Take some extra cash with you just in case you want to get a coffee or lunch between the dives or find some souvenirs on the way.

Is the diving equipment included?

Our activities for beginners (snorkelling trips, PADI Discover Scuba Diving, PADI Scuba Diver Course as well as PADI Open Water Diver Course) include the necessary basic equipment: wetsuit, regulator, buoyancy compensator, mask, fins. Certified divers and participants in advanced courses can rent the equipment for an additional fee at the time of booking. Weights and tanks are always included.

Prices are based on shore diving and guided by a PADI Divemaster/Instructor. Included are 12 L steel tanks, 10L & 15L are available free of charge upon previous request (subject to availability).

Which dive equipment should I bring?

If you do not have your own equipment, don’t worry, our equipment is in perfect condition! But if you are a certified diver and you have your own gear, why should it be dry in the closet at home?

It is particularly important that you feel comfortable while diving, so if available, we recommend bringing your own mask, computer, compass, light, fins, boots and suit. Do not hesitate to contact us in your particular case. Let us know what you need, and we’ll take care of it. There is nothing that cannot be arranged.

Do I have to buy a dive computer, or can I rent one?

No, you do not have to buy a computer. We are happy to rent you a diving computer. Please book it in advance to ensure availability.

Which wetsuit should I bring or wear?

In summer we usually dive with a 5mm wetsuit. In winter we recommend a 7mm wetsuit, semidry or drysuit. Your own suit is the most comfortable one, just bring it. If you are limited in baggage, our rental suits are 7mm.

What is the size of the tanks?

We usually use 12 L steel tanks for recreational diving. 10L and 15L tanks are available on request.

What’s the brand of the rental equipment?

Regulators: Scubapro (recreational); Apeks, Tecline (technical)

BCD’s/ Bladders: Scubapro (recreational), Apeks, Tecline (technical)

Suits: Scubapro

Are weights included in the prices?

Yes, weights are included in our prices. Our sidemount bladders have integrated weight pockets whereas backmount divers use a weight belt. If you prefer to bring your own belt or weight harness, feel free to do so. Please let us know in advance.

Can I store my own equipment in the diving center?

Yes, you can clean, dry and store your own equipment during your stay in our premises.

Can I study the theory at home?

Thanks for asking! Yes, you can study at home and we highly recommend it. Let’s be honest, there are better things to do during your holidays than studying…you could spend your time underwater or on the beach!

Many of our students ask us to send them the materials before their arrival. Most PADI Courses are available via PADI eLearning. It is very simple and convincing.

To register you for the PADI eLearning we will have to charge the costs (included in our course prices) in addition to the deposit. From the moment of registration with PADI, the costs of the eLearning are non-refundable. The access to your PADI eLearning will be available for a lifetime and no heavy books need to be carried home.

Not everything can be written in a single book, of course your instructor will teach you a lot more important knowledge after your arrival. We will do our best to assist you at any time, answering questions and tune up your knowledge. But please keep in mind, you are responsible for studying and your own learning process. Without theory we might not be able to take you diving

What is the schedule of the diving courses like?

Generally, we split the day in morning and afternoon with a little lunch break between. For courses we prefer to train you in consecutive days, since it shows the best learning curve. Usually we start about 8 to 9 o’clock in the morning and finish either by 2ish or 5ish in the afternoon, depending on the dive site and planned theory session.

If you need a day off diving during your stay or have something planned in the afternoons, just let us know in advance, we always try to make the most out of your holidays.

How long do the dives last?

Recreational dives usually last between 45 and 60 minutes, while technical dives might be between 60 and 90 minutes.

Do we dive from shore or by boat?

Since Lanzarote offers many amazing dive sites that are accessible from land, we usually do not need a boat. Nevertheless, on request we also go out by boat (RIB).

Do I have to pay extra for eLearning materials or certification?

No, all course rates include the necessary materials or access to the PADI eLearning (if available) and PADI certification fees.

What is Technical Diving all about?

We often hear that Technical Diving is all about deep diving. If that was the only reason, it would be very sad.

Technical Diving gives us the opportunity to stay longer underwater by configuring the equipment, gas mixtures and training, breaking the recreational limits and, yes, diving deeper!

In addition, technical diving includes using new or different equipment and improving your skills. You will feel safer and learn to trust yourself 100%.

Is Technical Diving dangerous?

Many people are worried when it comes to technical diving. That’s ok as long as it’s “healthy” concerns or rather a matter of respect.

Most sports involve a risk, as does scuba diving. The risks in technical diving are more enormous. But that is precisely why the tec training is so strict and has different experience levels. there are different levels. We simulate scenarios and “play” before things get serious.

You will repeat the exercises again and again and your instructor will not certify you, under no circumstances, until you are ready.

Is Technical Diving just for experienced divers?

No! As anything in life, also tec diving can be learned at any time and age. We would not recommend tec diving after just finishing an open water course, but if you have some decent diving experience and feel confident in the water just give tec diving a try.

Everybody must go through intense training and learn step by step the drills and procedures, so will you!

Can I participate in Tec courses? I am just a recreational diver.

In general, everyone can learn Technical Diving, you only have to adhere to the minimum requirements of the course. The step from the recreational diver to the first level of technical diving (Tec 40 course) is quite small.

You will learn the new requirements and techniques step by step and smoothly glide into the world of Technical Diving.

Which tanks do you use?

For technical diving we are using aluminium tanks. As bottom gas we are diving with S80’s, available as twinset or sidemount. If you prefer smaller tanks, on request we can also arrange 7L tanks as bottom gas. The deco stages are generally 7L tanks.

What gas mixture do you offer?

Air, Nitrox, Trimix and Oxygen.

Do I have to pay more for gas mixtures?

All technical dive courses and excursions include up to two deco stages with nitrox or oxygen. Further stages and trimix is available at extra costs on request.

Do I need to be a certified Tec diver to dive into Twinset or Sidemount configuration?

The answer is simple, no! Many divers, especially those that are used to dive in cold waters, dive in twinsets or with two stages. Using a redundant system like two regulators makes diving safer.

Many recreational divers like to use this configuration as well during their holidays. But most centers in touristic areas usually dive in single tank backmount configuration.

At Scuba Legends we offer our recreational divers to dive “TecReational” in twinsets or sidemount configuration and staying within recreational limits.

What does “TecReational” mean?

Very simple, the expression can be split into the “Tec” from tec diving and the “Reational” from recreational diving. It means diving within recreational limits in technical diving configuration such as redundant systems, twinsets, sidemount, long hoses etc.

As explained earlier, why not to make diving safer by adding redundancy or more air supply? TecReational Diving is perfect for divers that dive in cold waters, dry suit divers, frequent divers and all those ones that are not sure yet to actually start proper tec diving but want to get confident and experienced in tec diving configuration.

Let’s simply make diving safer and adventurous!

What is the difference between deep diving and Technical Diving?

A deep dive is defined as any dive deeper than 18m to a maximum of 40m, which is the recreational limit. Recreational dives are planned as no deco dives, which means the divers can ascend to the surface at any time by only performing the usual safety stop for 3min at 5m, if required.

Technical diving instead involves going beyond recreational scuba diving limits and includes one or more of the following:

• Diving beyond 40 metres/130 feet
• Required stage decompression
• Diving in an overhead environment beyond 40 linear metres/130 linear feet of the surface
• Accelerated decompression and/or the use of variable gas mixtures during the dive
• Use of extensive equipment and technologies

I have been diving already deeper than 40m with other companies and have done decompression stops in recreational dive gear, why wouldn’t you let me join the tec dives?

We hear this question very often and it is genuinely concerning. We understand best how exciting it can be to dive deep and to stay for a longer period underwater. Anybody can dive deeper than 40m and break recreational limits in basic recreational configuration carrying one tank filled with air on your back and running into deco.

It is always easy to get down, isn’t it? But did you ever wonder what happens if an error occurs? It could be just a minor leak, a free flow, currents, higher air consumption due to stress? Maybe it is not you, maybe another diver of the group has a problem? At these depths, any tiny issue can have enormous consequences, if you are not well prepared and equipped.

You cannot just go up to the surface and ignore your deco stops. If nothing happens it is fun. Though, you should ask yourself if it is smart to do so and if this is safe? You have done it several times; it was easy, and you came back to the surface with no problem? Congratulations, you were lucky!

At Scuba Legends we strongly believe that safety and professionalism always come first. Diving is a risky sport, but we like to reduce the risks to the minimum. There is a reason why recreational and technical diving requirements are so different. We strictly follow standards, and you have to understand that in the end of the day it is in your own interest. Therefore, we do not take recreational divers above their limits!

I just want to dive deep, is that okay?

Yes, it is totally ok, but please keep in mind that diving is not a competition. Everybody has different motives for going diving. Some divers are happy just to be underwater, others need to see immense aquatic life. Some like diving in dark and cold lakes whereas others prefer tropical pristine and warm waters.

But of course, there are many divers that love the challenge of the depth. Tec Diving is the path to train to dive deep performing the correct safety procedures and be independent. But tec diving is definitely not only about diving deep. It is also about gaining confidence, getting prepared, visit exclusive dive sites and spend more time underwater.

If you are interested particularly in diving deep, you should seek for technical training to assure safety and all required procedures. Do it the right way, do it technical!

Do I need to be Nitrox and or Deep certified to start tec diving?

Yes, the exact minimum requirements for each course can be found on the respective course page.

If you do not fulfil the requirements yet, do not worry we are happy to assist you sorting everything out either before your arrival or arrange a personal schedule for you. Keep in mind, most of the theory-based training can be completed prior arrival and you will have more time to enjoy your holidays.

Once we have registered you with PADI eLearning, you will receive a confirmation email and just have to follow the instructions (please check your spam folder).

1. Create your account: Click the link in the email to create a new account (with the email address you sent us) on the eLearning website.
2. Redeem your code: Once you’re signed in, you’ll need to redeem your eLearning code by clicking at the bottom of the page.
3. Check your personal information.
4. Upload a profile picture under “Certification & Credentials” that is required for final certification (without hat or sunglasses).
5. Download PADI APPs:
   1. “PADI” (required for electronic certification cards, etc.)
   2. “PADI Training” (for offline study)
   3. “PADI Adventures” (for travel and bookings)
6. Final training record. Print and sign or send the result of the final examination as well as the completion of all repetition questions by e-mail.

The best experience is to study online, however, you can also download the individual chapters to study offline via PADI Training app in case you have poor or no internet connection.

The PADI Training app is available for Apple iOS and Android. Chapters can be easily confirmed for download in sections.

PADI eLearning website (online only): https://www.padi.com/de/padi-elearning. You can access from any device.

PADI Training APP (only for offline use). You can download all the material and study offline. If you reconnect to the Internet, the learning progress will be updated.

The videos are a great help for the theory and offer an incredibly good approach for later training. It is usually very easy to start.

Please remember that PADI eLearning is a prerequisite and must be completed before we start the underwater course training.

Why do I have to present a medical statement and was never asked that when diving in the past?

Safety is our highest priority. Therefore, any diver must fill in a medical questionnaire prior to any in water activities.

In case any question is answered with a “yes”, medical clearance by a physician is required by Spanish law. Please keep in mind that your honesty is required and particularly important for your and your buddy’s safety, but also for the responsibility of our staff. Should you have any doubts concerning your medical situation or need advice, please contact us.

Students participating in professional courses such as the PADI Divemaster or Instructor course must always prove a medical diving certificate before the course.

Do I need a diving insurance?

The Spanish law requires every diver to have a personal diving insurance. Please bring proof of your diving insurance prior to diving or contact us to sign up for a policy of our daily or long-term plans.

If you dive regularly, it might be useful to have your own annual insurance. If you already have insurance and would like to participate in technical dives or courses, better check whether technical diving is covered.

In addition to a diving insurance, we also strongly recommend a general travel insurance from your local provider to cover non-diving accidents or illnesses abroad.

How long do I have to wait after diving till I can fly home?

After one recreational dive you should wait at least 12 hours, after 2 dives 18 hours. Keep in mind, that in case you join us for technical diving, you might break recreational limits and/ or stay longer or deeper underwater. We recommend you to plan 18 to 24 hours from the moment you surface from your last dive till your flight departure.

I have not been diving since a while, is that a problem?

If you like, we could start with a check/refresh dive first, to evaluate your experience level. During the booking process you will notice that we also ask you some questions to estimate you diving experience and offer the best service.

Do I have to do a check dive before diving with you?

We notice very often that most divers do not want to do a check/refresh dive. Please keep in mind that a check dive is not any kind of punishment, but it is for your own safety as well as for the rest of the group and, yes, also important for your instructor in charge.

We decide in every individual case if we make a check dive obligatory or only recommend it. Especially in tec diving it is a great idea to start with a check dive to get familiar with the gear, check if everything is working and get used to your instructor.

Do you offer a transfer to and from my holiday accommodation?

Many of our dive sites are in the resort of Puerto del Carmen. It is often faster on foot than by car, depending on where your accommodation is located. On request we offer a pick-up service. For pick-ups outside Puerto del Carmen, we charge a small surcharge.

Where should I stay during my holidays?

We recommend a stay in Puerto del Carmen. There are long beaches and great opportunities for walks and shopping. Some areas are busier, while others are quieter. Near by the dive center there are many different accommodations such as the rental of rooms, apartments and holiday bungalows. Family-friendly hotels as well as luxury hotels are also in walking distance, so everything your heart desires. If you have any specific questions about group accommodation, please contact us. We are happy to help you.

My partner is a non-diver, could he/she join me during the day?

First of all, no worries not everybody can be a diver, but feel free to contact us about our snorkel experience or beginner courses. Depending on the logistics, there might or might not be space available for a passenger. During shore dives it might be possible, whereas during boat dives we will have to charge a boat fee for an extra person (consider sea sickness for passenger). Please consult us in advance.

Is the dive equipment included in the prices?

Yes, all courses, dive and snorkel excursions include basic equipment. Additional accessories like torches, surface marker buoy & spool, dive computer, wetnotes etc. can be rented at extra charge.

Why are dives at Museo Atlantico more expensive than normal dives?

The Underwater Museum was privately owned until recently. It is no longer necessary to pay a separate entrance fee. Accordingly, we only charge the extra fee for transfers and the boat reservation.

Why do I have to make a deposit to confirm my booking?

We understand that you may have doubts about paying a deposit without ever seeing us. Unfortunately, nowadays, because it is so easy, many guests book an activity in advance and then suddenly change their mind. We would like to offer you and other guests an organized and professional service. Especially technical diving is very different from recreational diving in the sense that everything has to be planned bullet proof. Before your arrival, we need to order materials, configure equipment and organize individual gas mixtures, and book boats for specific dive sites. Therefore, we need to ask you for a deposit to confirm your reservation.

How can I pay the deposit?

Depending on the activity, a deposit must be paid as a booking confirmation. In the case of an online reservation, payment is made online by credit card. When booking via e-mail, the deposit must be made by bank transfer within the agreed deadline. Please note that the deposit for local bookings is to be paid in cash or by card at the time of booking. You will then receive a confirmation of receipt of the deposit.

When and how do I pay the rest of the pending payment?

After payment of the deposit, the rest will be due upon arrival at the dive center before diving. You can pay in cash or by card, there is also an ATM nearby. If you wish to pay the full price by bank transfer, please let us know before your arrival and we will require a transfer confirmation.

Do I have to book my dives in advance, or can I just pop in?

Usually we are underwater instead of sitting dry in the office. Since some courses may last 1-2 weeks and we like to offer individual services, we highly recommend you to book as early as possible to guarantee your desired dive schedule.

Why do you have such a strict cancelation policy?

In recreational, but even more in technical diving everything needs to be planned and we cannot cut corners. If you would cancel your booking because you have changed your mind, don’t feel like diving on a rainy day or had a drink too much the night before, we still have to (and want to) pay our instructors and suppliers.

We want to assure you and all other customers a great diving experience and high-quality service. Quality has its price. We understand that the cancelation policy might sound harsh to you or turn you away, but we are a serious company and employer that wants to show appreciation towards staff as well as other customers. Thanks for understanding.