First time scuba diving in Goa – diver giving OK signal underwater at Grand Island, FlyingFish Candolim

FIRST TIME SCUBA DIVING IN GOA

Try one dive in a morning, or learn to dive for life. No experience needed, and SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver dives need no swimming.

Non-Swimmers Welcome!

10,000+

Happy Divers

4.8 Stars

Google & TripAdvisor

SSI & PADI

Cards valid worldwide

Non-Swimmers

Welcome on SSI Try Scuba & Basic Diver

Your first dive starts here

Scuba Diving for Beginners in Goa – No Swimming, No Experience Required

You have two ways to start. An SSI Try Scuba or Basic Diver dive takes one morning: you practise in the pool at Novotel, then dive at Grande Island with an SSI instructor next to you the whole time. You don't need to swim.

A course takes 2 to 4 days and gives you a diving card for life. With the Open Water card you can dive anywhere in the world.

1:1 instructor on SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver
20 to 40 minutes underwater
₹10 Lakh insurance
First time scuba diver exploring coral reef at Grand Island Goa – beginner scuba diving with FlyingFish Candolim
Starts from ₹2,970 per person + GST
Option 1: try a dive

Beginner Scuba Diving Packages in Goa

No card and no swimming needed. Every SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver dive includes a 1:1 SSI-certified instructor, pool practice, full equipment, the boat from Candolim, snacks, HD photos and video, and ₹10 Lakh insurance.

SSI Try Scuba 20 Min – Intro Dive Goa

SSI Try Scuba 20 Min – Intro Dive Goa

Half Day 6-10m

Your first 20 minutes underwater. Pool practice at Novotel first, then a guided dive at Grande Island.

₹2,970 + GST per person
SSI Try Scuba 20+20 Min – Goa

SSI Try Scuba 20+20 Min

Half Day 6-10m

Two 20-minute dives in one morning, with a rest on the boat in between. Good for nervous first-timers.

₹6,930 + GST per person
SSI Double Dive 40+40 Min – Wreck & Reef Goa

SSI Double Dive 40+40 Min – Wreck & Reef Goa

Full Day 6-12m

Two 40-minute dives, the wreck and a coral reef. Buffet dinner at Novotel and a free FlyingFish T-shirt.

₹8,910 + GST per person

Coming as a group with different plans?

Build one booking: some of you try scuba, some dive twice, some snorkel. From ₹2,970 per diver.

Build your own dive
Option 2: get certified

Beginner scuba diving courses in Goa

A course gives you a diving licence: a card that never expires. You start from zero. Your instructor teaches you in the pool first, then in the sea at Grande Island.

Scuba Diver or Open Water?

Scuba Diver takes 2 days and lets you dive to 12 m with a professional. Open Water takes 3 to 4 days and lets you dive to 18 m with a buddy, without a guide.

SSI or PADI?

Both cards are accepted at dive centres around the world, and both let you dive to the same depth. With us, the SSI course costs less.

Do I need to swim?

For a course, you should be comfortable in water. If you are not sure, start with an SSI Try Scuba or Basic Diver dive, or message us and ask.

SSI Scuba Diver Course in Goa

SSI Scuba Diver Course in Goa

2 Days 12m max

A real SSI card in 2 days. Dive to 12 m with a dive professional. Upgrade to Open Water later, and your dives carry over.

₹17,820 + GST per person
SSI Open Water Referral Program Goa

SSI Open Water Referral Program Goa

2 Days (ocean dives) 18m max

Do the theory and pool training at an SSI centre near home. Then come to Goa for your 4 Open Water ocean dives.

₹17,820 + GST per person
PADI Open Water Diver Course in Goa

PADI Open Water Diver Course in Goa

3-4 Days 18m max

The same Open Water level with a PADI card: eLearning, 5 pool sessions and 4 ocean dives at Grande Island. Free FlyingFish T-shirt.

₹35,472 + GST per person
Option 3: learn more, pay less

Beginner course bundles

Each bundle starts with Open Water, so you can book it with no experience. Adding a second course costs less than booking it on its own. Every bundle comes with a free FlyingFish T-shirt.

Bundle What you get Price per person Book
Open Water + Nitrox 2 SSI certifications ₹33,660₹30,690 Book
Open Water + Perfect Buoyancy 2 SSI certifications ₹33,660₹30,690 Book
Open Water + Perfect Buoyancy + Nitrox 3 SSI certifications ₹43,560₹37,620 Book
Open Water + Advanced Open Water 2 SSI certifications, 9 dives ₹45,540₹43,560 Book
Open Water + Nitrox + Advanced Open Water 3 SSI certifications ₹54,945₹50,490 Book
PADI Open Water + Nitrox 2 PADI certifications ₹43,956₹39,600 Book
PADI Open Water + Advanced 2 PADI certifications ₹58,905₹54,500 Book

All prices + GST. Specialty and advanced courses are on the full price list.

Coming with someone who won't dive?

Snorkelling at Grande Island: same boat, same reef, from the surface. ₹1,980 + GST per person.

See snorkelling
Not sure where to start?

Which first dive is right for me?

Compare the four ways to start. Every option is open to people who have never dived.

Compare SSI Try Scuba & Basic DiverSee 4 options SSI Scuba DiverSee course Open Water courseSSI or PADI SnorkellingFor non-divers
Time needed One morning, or a full day for two dives 2 days 3 to 4 days Half a day
How deep 6 to 12 m, with your instructor Up to 12 m, with a dive professional Up to 18 m, with a buddy At the surface
Do I get a card? No licence. Scuba 40 earns SSI Basic Diver recognition Yes, an SSI Scuba Diver card Yes, a card that never expires No
Swimming Not needed Be comfortable in water Be comfortable in water Not needed
Best for Trying scuba once on holiday Getting a real card when you are short on time Diving again on future trips, in Goa or abroad Family or friends who don't want to dive
Price per person From ₹2,970 ₹17,820 ₹29,700From ₹23,760 ₹1,980

All prices + GST. Full list on our scuba diving price list for Goa.

What to expect

An SSI Try Scuba / Basic Diver day, hour by hour

All food and drinks are provided by Novotel Resort & Spa, Candolim. Times can move by about 15 minutes.

06:00 AM

Arrival at Novotel Resort

Park inside the resort and come to the hotel lobby. Fill out forms and meet your dive instructor.

06:15 AM

Safety & Dive Briefing

Learn about the dive plan, equipment, and essential underwater safety signals.

06:30 AM

Pool Training Session (1 Hour)

Learn breathing techniques, buoyancy control, and underwater communication in the pool.

07:30 AM

Tea/Coffee Break

Refreshments at Novotel Resort & Spa. Settle final payments.

08:30 AM

Boat Departs for Grand Island

A boat ride out with snacks and juices, and you'll often spot dolphins on the way.

10:00 AM

Dive 1: Shipwreck Adventure

Explore a 1940s British-era wreck at 40 feet depth. Spot angelfish, parrotfish, pufferfish, snappers, and butterflyfish.

11:00 AM

Snorkeling & Paddleboarding

Enjoy snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding from the boat.

12:00 PM

Dive 2: Coral Garden Exploration

Discover colorful coral reefs with nudibranchs, eels, rays, and occasionally turtles. (40+40 package only)

01:00 PM

Scenic Boat Cruise Back

Relax on the scenic boat ride back to the mainland.

06:00 PM

Photos & Videos Delivered

Receive your HD underwater photos and videos via shareable link. For half-day packages (SSI Try Scuba & Scuba 40), photos are typically delivered within 3 hours of your return. For the full-day Scuba 40+40, delivery is by 6 PM.

Doing a course? Course days follow their own plan over 2 to 4 days. See the SSI Open Water course page for how it works.

A few things to know before your dive

  • All dives start at Novotel Resort & Spa, Candolim. Do NOT go to GTDC Calangute Residency.
  • You must be free the entire day and must NOT have a flight on the same day as your dive.
  • Read the medical form carefully. If you answer "yes" to any question or take daily medication, contact us. Doctor's clearance required if on medication.
  • Our first dives are the SSI (Scuba Schools International) Try Scuba and Basic Diver programmes. Courses lead to an SSI or PADI card, recognised worldwide.
  • Trip and boat are fully insured for ₹10 Lakh per person.
  • Minimum age is 10 years. Under 18 requires parental consent.
Why choose FlyingFish

Why Choose FlyingFish for Beginner Scuba Diving in Goa

1:1 Personal Guidance

One dedicated instructor just for you throughout the entire dive.

Non-Swimmers Welcome

No swimming skills needed. Your instructor handles everything.

5-Star Resort Base

Pool training & snacks at Novotel Resort, Candolim. (Buffet dinner included in the 40+40 package.)

Free Photos & Videos

HD underwater photos and video included with every SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver dive.

Be prepared

What to bring on dive day

Swimwear

Wear it underneath your clothes. All diving equipment is provided by us.

Photo ID

Valid government-issued photo ID is required for all participants.

Towel & Change

Bring a towel and change of clothes. Changing rooms available at Novotel.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap for the boat ride.

Prescription Lenses?

We have masks with prescription options. Mention this when booking.

Leave Behind

No loose jewellery. Leave valuables at your hotel.

What our divers say

Reviews from people who've dived with us

Here's what our guests have written on Google and TripAdvisor.

Posted on Google Google
Rajneesh Kumar profile picture
Rajneesh Kumar
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Professional staff with all safety measures and excellent service and support...!!
Posted on Google Google
MarvelouSiddharth profile picture
MarvelouSiddharth
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Mahesh g.warrier profile picture
Mahesh g.warrier
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Had a great experience.
Posted on Google Google
Manna Singh profile picture
Manna Singh
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Pranav Jagtap profile picture
Pranav Jagtap
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Gurkirpal Bedi profile picture
Gurkirpal Bedi
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Joseph Durfey profile picture
Joseph Durfey
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Abdul Waheed profile picture
Abdul Waheed
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Best experience we ever had
Posted on Google Google
Anshul Tembhurne profile picture
Anshul Tembhurne
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Road50855370209 profile picture
Road50855370209
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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 Tripadvisor
Freedom58686498324 profile picture
Freedom58686498324
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba Very good experience to much friendly staff members they help you
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Travel25055630721 profile picture
Travel25055630721
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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 Tripadvisor
Dwarkesh profile picture
Dwarkesh
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba Nitrox Great experience with Ashish & Dinesh! Will come back here next time as well!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Curiosity20059827591 profile picture
Curiosity20059827591
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba Staff members are excellent!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sunshine49195324825 profile picture
Sunshine49195324825
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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 Tripadvisor
Voyager55147331857 profile picture
Voyager55147331857
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba Excellent experience with team of the Novotel 👍
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Excursion31003926877 profile picture
Excursion31003926877
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba diving Best service provider best experience of life very well trained and professional staff
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
FarAway38541753570 profile picture
FarAway38541753570
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba diving Very good experience and had a nice time
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
OnAir49110026021 profile picture
OnAir49110026021
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Scuba It was fun and comfortable around them first scuba diving totally worth each penny
Got Questions?

First Time Scuba Diving in Goa – FAQs for Beginners

No, not for SSI Try Scuba or Basic Diver. Scuba diving and swimming are different skills. Your equipment keeps you buoyant, and your instructor stays beside you the whole time (1:1). Many of our happiest divers are non-swimmers. For a certification course, you should be comfortable in water.

SSI Try Scuba costs ₹2,970 for 20 minutes underwater and SSI Basic Diver ₹4,950 for 40 minutes. Try Scuba 20+20 is ₹6,930 for two 20-minute dives and Basic Diver 40+40 is ₹8,910 for two 40-minute dives. Courses start at ₹17,820 (SSI Scuba Diver) and ₹23,760 (SSI Open Water). All prices are per person + GST. SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver include HD photos and video, the boat, a 1:1 SSI instructor, equipment, snacks and ₹10 Lakh insurance. See every price on our scuba diving price list for Goa.

Yes. The Open Water Diver course is built for people who have never dived. You learn the theory, practise skills in 5 pool sessions at Novotel, then make 4 ocean dives at Grande Island. Most people finish in 3 to 4 days. The minimum age is 10.

SSI Scuba Diver takes 2 days and lets you dive to 12 m with a dive professional. SSI Open Water takes 3 to 4 days and lets you dive to 18 m with a buddy, without a guide. You can start with Scuba Diver and upgrade to Open Water later. The dives you have done carry over.

If you only want to see what scuba feels like, book SSI Try Scuba or Basic Diver. If you already know you want to dive on future trips, the Open Water course is better value than several single dives. Not sure if you will like it? Start with SSI Basic Diver (40 minutes), then talk to your instructor about a course.

Your instructor stays beside you for the whole dive. In the pool you learn hand signals, and you can ask to go up at any time. The instructor can slow down, hold you, or end the dive early. Many first-time divers feel nervous at the start. The pool practice and the first few breaths usually help you relax.

SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver dives go to 6 to 12 metres, depending on how comfortable you feel. Your instructor controls the descent and will not take you deeper than you want. At this depth you still see the coral reef and plenty of fish.

Yes, on every SSI Try Scuba and Basic Diver dive. Your instructor takes HD photos and video and shares them by link after the dive. If you want to bring your own GoPro, check with us first.

The season runs from October to May. February and March usually have the clearest water. We dive every day in season. Weekend slots fill first, so book early.

Not on the same day. Diving safety standards ask for 18 to 24 hours between your last dive and your flight, to prevent decompression sickness. Please do not book a flight on your dive day.

Every dive starts at Novotel Resort & Spa, Candolim. The boat then takes you to Grande Island. Please do not go to GTDC Calangute Residency.

If we cancel because the sea is unsafe, we reschedule your dive or give you a full refund. To change your date, tell us at least 24 hours before. See our Refund & Cancellation Policy for details.

Ready for your first scuba dive in Goa?

Book an SSI Try Scuba or Basic Diver dive for this trip, or start your Open Water course. We leave daily from Novotel, Candolim, and our team confirms your booking soon after you book.