Do I need to know how to swim for scuba diving in Goa?

No. Scuba diving and swimming are completely different. You wear equipment that keeps you buoyant and your SSI-certified instructor guides you throughout. Many of our happiest divers are non-swimmers.

Is scuba diving safe for beginners in Goa?

Yes. At FlyingFish, every beginner gets a dedicated 1:1 SSI-certified instructor, all equipment is regularly serviced, dives are in shallow water (6-12 metres), and every diver is covered by Rs.10 Lakh insurance. We have safely completed over 21,000 dives and certified 1,200+ divers.

When is the best time to dive in Goa?

October to May is dive season in Goa. February and March offer the best underwater visibility. Water temperature is a comfortable 27-30°C throughout the season. We operate daily with morning and afternoon sessions.

What if the weather is bad on my dive day?

Safety comes first. If conditions are not suitable for diving, we offer a free reschedule or full refund. We monitor sea conditions daily and notify you as early as possible.

Is Goa good for scuba diving?

Yes, Goa is one of the best scuba diving destinations in India. Grand Island offers coral reefs, 100+ marine species, and a historic shipwreck. The season runs October to May. FlyingFish has been the Official Goa Tourism partner and SSI-certified dive centre since 2016.

Which is the best place for scuba diving in Goa?

Grand Island (Grande Island) is the best place for scuba diving in Goa, with the richest marine life and varied dive sites. Departures are from Candolim/Sinquerim in North Goa. FlyingFish operates from Novotel Resort and Spa, Candolim.

Is scuba diving in Goa worth it?

Absolutely. FlyingFish offers dives up to 40 minutes (3x longer than most Goa operators), free HD photos and videos, 1:1 instructor guidance, and transparent pricing from Rs.2,970. Rated 4.8 stars by 600+ divers on Google and TripAdvisor.

Are there any health restrictions for scuba diving in Goa?

Most people in normal health can dive. Conditions requiring a doctor clearance: asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions, epilepsy. Cannot dive: pregnancy, active ear infection, perforated eardrum. Postpone if you have a cold or sinus congestion. All divers complete a medical questionnaire on dive day.

Scuba Diving In Goa | FlyingFish - Best Dive Centre In Candolim

Goa's SSI-certified scuba diving centre

FlyingFish is a scuba diving centre based at Novotel Resort & Spa, Candolim. We run scuba diving experiences in Calangute, Candolim and Grand Island for everyone, from complete beginners to certified divers.

With SSI-certified instructors and well-maintained equipment, we run everything from a 20-minute SSI Try Scuba to 40-minute guided dives and 40+40 double dives. Our 40-minute dive is three times the industry average. Whether you want to try deep sea diving in Goa or earn a global SSI certification, we have an experience for you.

What makes us different from other dive operators in Goa

1:1 Guided Dives

Every beginner gets a dedicated instructor for maximum safety underwater.

Dives up to 40 Minutes

Our longest guided dive is three times the industry average, so you get more time underwater.

Safety First

SSI-certified instructors, maintained equipment, strict safety protocols.

Novotel Experience

Pool training & snacks at a 5-star resort. (Buffet dinner included in the 40+40 package.)

What Our Divers Say

Real reviews from scuba divers in Goa

Here's what our guests say on Google and TripAdvisor.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 568 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Rajneesh Kumar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Professional staff with all safety measures and excellent service and support...!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   MarvelouSiddharth 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best scuba school in goa highly recommended!

My wife and I had an amazing experience with Flying Fish Scuba School and instructor Sunny. Despite her never having been in a swimming pool, my wife completed her dive course successfully thanks to their incredible support and professionalism. If you want quality instruction and genuine care—not scams—this is the place. 100% worth it!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mahesh g.warrier 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great experience.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Manna Singh 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was priceless movement...i must recommend this as they are very professional....i was scared before start but dinesh the instructor he make me very comfortable  and then i came back for and turn ....it was grt grt time i spent at the sea bed ....and really  thanks amitab sir i really appreciate for last min call for second time...and u accepted....lots of love....
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Pranav Jagtap 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. you are looking for scuba diving in Goa, you’ve likely noticed dozens of operators offering "5-in-1" water sports combos at low prices. As a tourist, I was skeptical of these "scammy" setups. I decided to go with FlyingFish Scuba School (based at the Novotel Resort) based on the review It was definitely the right call and I can easily say it's the BEST scuba diving experience in Goa.

The Training & Team
The experience started with a thorough pool session, which was incredibly helpful for getting comfortable with the gear and breathing techniques before heading into open water. A huge shoutout to Mr. Dinesh and Ms. Maitri, they were phenomenal. Both were professional, friendly, and reliable, which is exactly what you want when you’re 10-12 meters underwater.

The Dive (Scuba 40)
I opted for the 40-minute dive. The marine life was beautiful; I saw a variety of fish and healthy coral reefs. They also provided video footage from an action camera, which was a great bonus.
Note on visibility: While the shipwreck is a major draw, we couldn't see it during my session due to visibility issues. It’s worth keeping in mind that nature doesn't always cooperate, but the rest of the dive more than made up for it.

Facilities & Logistics
The logistics were handled very well:

Changing Rooms: Clean and accessible facilities to change out of wet clothes both after the pool session and after returning from the jetty.

Refreshments: Proper snacks were provided, which were much appreciated after the energy-intensive dive.

Safety: The 1:1 instructor-to-student ratio during the dive made the whole experience feel very secure.

Verdict
If you want a "real" diving experience rather than a rushed tourist activity, this is a solid choice. It felt safe, organized, and honest. FlyingFish scuba surely made th diving experience memorable!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gurkirpal Bedi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really great experience, Unique concept of 40 plus 40 min dives, Very good dive sites and the whole team is so good and helpful...A big thank you to Anirudh and Dinesh Bhai, enjoyed a lot and will come back for the course...And Thank you Amitabh Sir too...
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Joseph Durfey 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend! Dive master was super knowledgeable and professional. Took good care of us. Thank you
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Abdul Waheed 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best experience we ever had
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anshul Tembhurne 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. - Did an Open Water DiverScuba course with flying fish scuba in goa. This course stands out because at the same course price across India you get 4+2 speciality course dives, which can hugely improve your performance. As there base is at novotel candolim, you get better convenience if you decide to stay at the resort.

- Our instructor was Anirudh. He was amazing, supportive and clarified all our doubts. You can trust him and his experience. You will learn a lot over the duration of course.

- Dive sites are amazing both the wreck and coral colony.

Happy Diving!

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 381 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Road50855370209 
 
 
 
 Verified First scuba experience
It was my first diving experience. I chose flying fish scuba school and was very happy to have chosen this center. They guided me properly. I had an amazing dive and a great experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Freedom58686498324 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba
Very good experience to much friendly staff members they help you
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Travel25055630721 
 
 
 
 Verified 40+40 scuba diving
It’s spell bounding experience, I can’t express my happiness. I took 40+40 min long scuba diving . That was intensive and tedious though. I was very eager to see corals and under water 🗺️ world. My instructor Dinesh who truly genuine, with lot of patience listened to me because I was very very anxious once dived into sea!!! I almost gave up, but I asked him 5 mins and repeated the same pool training, eventually I made it😍❣️!! I dived deep equalising my ears often as I have sinusitis problem that caused sharp pain in my ears. My instructor was really helpful and cooperative. Thank you flyingfish scuba for making my dive easier and possible 🪸💖💙
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dwarkesh 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba Nitrox
Great experience with Ashish & Dinesh! Will come back here next time as well!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Curiosity20059827591 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba
Staff members are excellent!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sunshine49195324825 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba
Ashish was an excellent scuba diving trainer and made the whole experience very comfortable. He explained everything clearly and was very patient, especially with beginners. I felt completely safe and confident under his guidance. His calm nature and professionalism made the dive even more enjoyable. Highly recommend Ashish to anyone trying scuba diving for the first time!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Voyager55147331857 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba
Excellent experience with team of the Novotel 👍
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Excursion31003926877 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba diving
Best service provider best experience of life very well trained and professional staff
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   FarAway38541753570 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba diving
Very good experience and had a nice time
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   OnAir49110026021 
 
 
 
 Verified Scuba
It was fun and comfortable around them first scuba diving totally worth each penny

Your first breath underwater, no experience needed

Our Discover Scuba experience is for absolute beginners. No swimming skills required, just a sense of adventure. Your SSI-certified instructor stays with you the whole time, from the safety briefing to your guided dive at Grand Island.

What's included: Boat transfer, all equipment, safety briefing, guided dive, and underwater photos.

Duration: Half-day (AM or PM session).

Starting at INR 2,970 per person. See all scuba diving prices in Goa.

Become a certified diver, recognized worldwide

Take the next step with SSI certification courses at FlyingFish. From Open Water Diver to Advanced Open Water and specialty courses, you earn credentials that are recognized at dive sites around the world.

Open Water: 3-4 days, includes theory + pool + open water dives.

Advanced Open Water: 2-3 days for certified divers.

Specialties: Deep diving, night diving, underwater photography, wreck diving.

Common Questions

Your questions about scuba diving, answered

Everything you need to know before your first dive with FlyingFish.

No! Scuba diving and swimming are completely different. You'll be wearing equipment that keeps you buoyant and breathing underwater. Our instructors guide you through every moment. Many of our happiest divers are non-swimmers.

Absolutely. At FlyingFish, safety is our top priority. Every beginner gets a dedicated 1:1 instructor, all equipment is regularly serviced, and we follow strict SSI safety protocols. We've completed over 21,000 safe dives and certified 1,200+ divers.

All packages include: boat transfer to Grand Island, full scuba equipment, safety briefing and pool training, 1:1 SSI-certified instructor, guided dive (20–40 min by package), FREE HD photos & videos, snacks, and ₹10 Lakh insurance. Packages start at ₹2,970 + GST — no hidden charges.

October to May is dive season in Goa. November to February offers the best visibility. We operate daily during season with both morning and afternoon sessions. Book early for weekend slots!

Safety always comes first. If conditions aren't suitable for diving, we'll offer you a free reschedule to another date or a full refund — no questions asked. We monitor sea conditions daily.

The minimum age for scuba diving at FlyingFish is 10 years, following SSI international standards. Divers aged 10–14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit — as long as you are in reasonable health and can complete our medical questionnaire, you are welcome to dive.

Yes! Goa is one of the best and most accessible scuba diving destinations in India. The Arabian Sea off Goa offers warm water (27–30°C), good visibility, 100+ marine species, and diverse dive sites at Grand Island — including coral reefs and a historic British-era shipwreck. The season runs October to May, with February–March offering the clearest water. FlyingFish has been making scuba diving available in Goa since 2016 as the Official Goa Tourism partner.

Grand Island (Grande Island) is the best place for scuba diving in Goa. It offers the richest marine life and most varied dive sites in the state — coral reefs, tropical fish, and a fascinating shipwreck. The closest departure point is Candolim/Sinquerim in North Goa. FlyingFish operates from Novotel Resort & Spa, Candolim, easily accessible from Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, and Panjim.

Absolutely — scuba diving in Goa is worth every rupee. Grand Island offers an immersive underwater experience with coral reefs, 100+ marine species, and a British-era shipwreck. What makes FlyingFish especially worth it: 40-minute dives (3x longer than most Goa operators), 1:1 instructor guidance, free HD photos & videos, 5-star resort base, and transparent pricing from ₹2,970. Our 4.8★ rating from 600+ divers speaks for itself.

Most people in normal health can dive without issue. Conditions that require a doctor's clearance include asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions, and epilepsy. Conditions that prevent diving entirely include pregnancy, active ear infections, and perforated eardrums. If you have a cold or sinus congestion on the day, we recommend postponing. All divers complete a medical questionnaire before diving — please inform us of any conditions when booking.

View All FAQs

Scuba Diving in Goa

Build your own dive at Grand Island

4.8 Stars

21,000+ Dives

1,200+ Certified

40-Min Dive

Goa's SSI-certified scuba diving centre

Scuba diving experiences in Goa for every level

Build Your Own Dive

SSI Open Water

SSI Try Scuba

Scuba 40

Scuba 40+40

Grand Island Trip

Fun Dives