NO CERTIFICATION NEEDED - JUST A SENSE OF ADVENTURE
TRY SCUBA DIVE AT
GOAT ISLAND
Ever wondered what it feels like to breathe underwater? This is your chance to find out.
Our Try Scuba Dive is a safe, exciting beginner scuba experience at Goat Island Marine Reserve, just north of Auckland. You’ll learn the basics, get comfortable with the gear, practise in shallow water, then head beneath the surface with an instructor to explore the underwater world.
No dive certification needed — just confidence in the water, a sense of adventure and a willingness to try something unforgettable.
ADVENTURE FOR EVERYONE
YOUR FIRST UNDERWATER ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
The Try Scuba Dive is designed for people who want to experience scuba diving without committing to a full dive course.
You’ll begin at our dive centre with a theory session, gear fitting and safety briefing. Then we’ll head to Goat Island Marine Reserve, where your instructor will help you practise breathing underwater and using the equipment in shallow water before guiding you on a beginner-friendly dive.
It’s exciting, supportive and completely different from anything you’ve done on land.
What to expect on your Try Scuba Dive
We keep the experience clear, calm and beginner-friendly from start to finish.
Step 1: Learn the basics
Start with a short theory session covering scuba gear, safety and what to expect underwater.
Step 2: Get fitted for gear
We’ll set you up with all the scuba equipment you need for the experience.
Step 3: Practise in shallow water
Your instructor will help you learn how to breathe underwater and use the equipment safely.
Step 4: Go exploring
Once you’re comfortable, you’ll head on a guided beginner dive in Goat Island Marine Reserve.
Step 5: Debrief after the dive
After your dive, we’ll return to the dive centre and wrap up the experience.
BOOK NOW
Is Try Scuba right for you?
This experience is ideal if you are curious about scuba diving, thinking about doing your Open Water course, or wanting a one-off underwater adventure while visiting Goat Island.
You do not need to be certified, but you do need to be comfortable in the sea and able to swim to a medium level. Previous snorkelling experience is essential, as it helps you feel more relaxed in the water.
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No scuba certification needed
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Great first step before an Open Water course
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Best suited to confident swimmers
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Previous snorkelling experience necessary
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All scuba gear included
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Allow around 4 hours for the full experience
Before you book
Because scuba diving is an in-water activity, there are a few important requirements before joining this experience.
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You must be able to swim to a medium level
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You must feel confident in the sea
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Previous snorkelling experience is recommended
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Minimum age is 16 years
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Ages 10–15 may be approved by arrangement
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You must speak and understand English fluently
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You must be medically fit to dive
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All scuba equipment is included
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This experience does not certify you to dive independently
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Please allow at least 24 hours after diving before flying
Are you medically fit to dive?
Before your Try Scuba Dive, you’ll need to complete a dive medical questionnaire. If you answer yes to any medical questions, you may need a doctor’s clearance before taking part.
Please read the medical form carefully before booking. If clearance is needed and you do not have it on the day, you may not be able to continue with the experience.
Not quite ready for scuba?
If you are not confident in the ocean yet or have never snorkelled before, start with our Guided Beginner Snorkel Tour. It’s a fun, relaxed way to build confidence at Goat Island before taking the next step into scuba.
Loved your Try Dive? Become certified
If your Try Scuba Dive leaves you wanting more, the next step is the SSI Open Water Diver Course. This is where you learn the skills and knowledge to become a certified scuba diver and continue your underwater adventures.
View Open Water Course
Ready to take your first breath underwater?
Book your Try Scuba Dive at Goat Island Marine Reserve and experience the thrill of scuba diving for the first time with an instructor by your side.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need scuba certification for a Try Scuba Dive?
No. This is a beginner scuba experience, so you do not need to be certified. Your instructor will guide you through the basics and stay with you during the dive.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes. You need to be able to swim to a medium level and feel confident in the sea.
Do I need snorkelling experience?
Previous snorkelling experience is strongly recommended. If you have never snorkelled before, we recommend booking a Guided Beginner Snorkel Tour first.
How long does the Try Scuba Dive take?
Allow around 4 hours for the full experience, including theory, gear fitting, shallow-water practice, the dive and debrief.
Is scuba gear included?
Yes. All scuba equipment is included in the Try Scuba Dive experience.
Does this make me a certified diver?
No. This is an introductory scuba experience only. To become certified, you’ll need to complete an Open Water Diver course.
Can children do a Try Scuba Dive?
The standard minimum age is 16 years. Ages 10–15 may be approved by arrangement, so it’s best to contact the team before booking.
Can I fly after a Try Scuba Dive?
You should leave at least 24 hours after your Try Scuba Dive before flying.