What Your First Dive is Actually Like
Many people who have never dived think it is complicated, dangerous, or requires years of preparation. The reality is the exact opposite. Your first dive can happen with no prior experience, the same day you decide. All you need is curiosity and basic swimming ability.
At ALPHAMARIN Constanța we run hundreds of first dives every year for people of all ages — from children of 10 to retirees in their 70s. The initial fear usually disappears in the first two minutes underwater.
Your Options as a Beginner
1. SSI Try Scuba — no certification needed (€60)
The perfect program to taste diving without commitment. Half a day with your instructor, breathing exercises at the surface and your first dive at 3–5 m in the Black Sea. No certification — but you will know for sure whether you want to go further.
2. SSI Open Water Diver — your first certification
If you already know you want to dive on vacation — in Egypt, Greece or the Maldives — Open Water Diver is the course you need. 3–4 days, online theory at home, skills in the water and 4 real dives. Result: internationally recognized certification valid for life.
What It Feels Like Underwater — The Honest Truth
Breathing — at first it feels unusual (breathing consciously through a regulator). Within 5 minutes it becomes natural.
Pressure — at 3 m you feel slight pressure in your ears. The fix is simple: pinch your nose and blow gently (Valsalva maneuver). It equalizes immediately.
Buoyancy — underwater you can hover weightless, like floating in space. A total feeling of physical freedom.
Silence — there is no background noise underwater. You hear only your own breathing and air bubbles.
Wildlife — fish that completely ignore you at close range creates an inevitable sense of wonder.
Minimum Requirements
Swim 200 m continuously (no specific stroke required)
Float for 10 minutes
Good general health — no severe cardiac conditions, uncontrolled epilepsy, or acute ear/sinus problems
Minimum age: 10 years (with SSI junior program)
FAQ — First Dive
Can I dive if I wear glasses?
Yes. There are prescription dive masks available, or you can wear soft contact lenses under a standard mask.
Can I dive with mild claustrophobia?
It depends on severity. Open water doesn't create a closed-space feeling — it is the opposite. Many people with mild claustrophobia feel great underwater. We recommend Try Scuba to test this.
How much does the first dive cost in Constanța?
Try Scuba: €60. Includes full equipment and dedicated instructor. Book online or call +40.768.888.529.