Scuba Diving in Portobelo

Join an exciting scuba diving excursion in Portobelo, where you'll glide through the waters while discovering the vibrant Atlantic marine life unique to this region of Panama!

Description

Upon confirming your reservation, you may select one of two options: with a diving license or without. Both options feature a duration of approximately 8.5 to 9 hours and provide hotel pickup and drop-off, minibus and boat transportation, guidance from an English-speaking expert, diving gear, and a meal.

Diving with a License

Your adventure begins with a 7:30 am pickup from your accommodation in Panama City, followed by a drive of about an hour and a half to reach Portobelo.

Upon arrival, we will head to the coastline to access the Atlantic Ocean, adjusting the dive depths according to your certification. Expect to engage in two dives lasting between 45 to 60 minutes each. Weather permitting, the first dive will be at Drake Island, renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical pirate lore. During this dive, you will encounter corals, tuna, marlins, seahorses, turtles, and manta rays.

After the diving experience, we’ll return to the boat and head back to Portobelo for lunch, featuring a selection of chicken or fish served with coconut rice, french fries, or patacones (fried plantains). Following your meal, we’ll enjoy a brief exploration of the city to observe some historic fortifications that once protected against pirate invasions.

You can expect to return to your hotel in Panama City between 4 and 5 pm.

Diving without a License

This alternative follows the same schedule as the previous option; however, the dives will take place in the more accessible waters of Portobelo Bay. Prior to diving, participants will receive basic training to ensure they can dive under the guidance of an instructor. The dives will occur at a depth of 10 meters in the Atlantic, offering a memorable underwater adventure.

Diving Areas

Depending on weather conditions and visibility, potential dive sites include Drake Island, Buenaventura, Salmedina, El Faro, Padre Island, Tres Hermanas, Huertas, Parche Point, or El Avion. The specific locations will be determined on the day of your diving activity.

Diving License Requirements

To take part in this diving excursion, participants must hold an international Open Water Diver certification or an equivalent credential, validating their readiness for the dive.

Hotel Pickup

Hotel pickups are available exclusively from establishments situated in downtown Panama City.