Diving the Galapagos as a New Diver: Is It Worth the Challenge?

April 8, 2025

Diving the Galapagos Islands should be on every diver’s wish list. This archipelago’s incredible biodiversity lures seasoned and new divers alike. Who would not want the chance to dive with sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, seals, and marine iguanas? 

The Galapagos has a reputation for being "challenging," but diving there is surprisingly achievable for new divers. Whether you are diving for the first time or have some experience, we want to help you make the most of your Galapagos scuba adventure. In this article, we look at common challenges, from understanding the environment to mastering buoyancy control.

Diving the Galapagos – What You Need to Know

1.Understand The Environment

The first challenge for every new diver is understanding the conditions of the dive site. Diving the Galapagos is unique because the region is known for having strong currents and varying water temperatures, which can be intimidating if you are not expecting them. 

Building some endurance beforehand to handle these conditions is smart. That is true with any outdoor activity that requires stamina, whether you are mountain biking or hiking around the world—and it is true here, too.

Thoroughly research the sites you want to visit beforehand. Currents can change daily, and for some sites, like Wolf or Darwin islands, this makes diving very challenging. Remember, as a new diver, you are there to learn as much as possible - so your dive is fun and safe. Chat with locals, get information from local dive centers, and double-check everything. 

Luckily, the Galapagos has a variety of dive sites, each uniquely beautiful. The more you explore them, the more confident you will be with how much you know about their underwater environment.

READ MORE: Dream Dives: Are These the 15 Best Scuba Dives in the World?

2.Water Temperatures and Currents

Water temperatures vary according to the season. From June to November, they can drop to 60–70 °F, when it is time to break out the thicker wetsuits (5mm to 7mm). 

For a new diver, December to May is a better option for diving the Galapagos —the temperatures are slightly higher, and the seas are calmer. Currents can change from gentle drifts to powerful flows (1 to 5 knots), though, so be aware of the site’s dive conditions before committing. 

3.Visibility and Depth

Visibility is good when diving the Galapagos, with a typical range of 30–80 feet. Use shallower dives to enjoy the view and work your way up to deeper dives. 

For unforgettable beginner dives, consider sites like Kicker Rock for land-based diving. Kicker Rock and North Seymour are two amazing options, with loads of fish, turtles, and sharks to enjoy. 

Do not let their reputation for strong currents intimidate you. There are beginner-friendly sites to enjoy, especially with an experienced guide who knows the waters well.

LEARN MORE: Scuba Diving Skills: Monthly Goals to Become a Better Diver

4.Choose the Right Dive Sites 

All Galapagos dive sites are different, so pick one suited to your skill level.

  • San Cristóbal Island - This is an excellent starting point for new divers. Kicker Rock is a highlight, where you can spot sea lions, hammerheads, and rays in relatively calm conditions.
  • Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) - There are manageable drift dives with abundant marine life. Gordon Rocks is famous for hammerhead shark spotting, though it can have strong currents and upwellings. Cousin Rock boasts seahorses and rays.
  • Central Island Dive Sites - These spots are less challenging. They have calm water and incredible marine life, so they are perfect for beginners.

Start with easier dives to build your skills and get more confidence.

5.Get the Right Gear 

The right gear and training make all the difference to a successful dive, especially for a new diver. Diving the Galapagos requires slightly heavier gear because of the cooler water temperatures and currents. 

When packing for your adventure, you need to be strategic. Check out these travel packing hacks to maximize space while keeping your diving essentials accessible. 

  • Wetsuit: Choose a 5mm to 7mm diving wetsuit with a hood and gloves to stay comfortable. The wetsuit may fit a little tighter than you are used to, so take the time to adjust and make sure everything fits properly!
  • Gloves: Gloves must have a grip to protect your hands. You may need to hold onto volcanic rocks to stabilize yourself in the currents, and good hand protection is essential.
  • Pre-dive practice: Before jumping into an open-water dive, practice with all your equipment in shallow water or a pool to get used to it. You will be less stressed underwater when familiar with your Buoyancy Control Device (BCD), regulator, and weight belt.
  • Stay warm: If you are like me, you get cold easily. Wear thermal socks under your wetsuit; your future self will thank you.

New sensory experiences, like tighter wetsuits or extra weights, need some getting used to. I suggest you hire a private Divemaster for an extra boost of confidence—they are trained to help you get used to new equipment.

RELATED: Diving Gear: 9 Essential Items Every Diver Should Have

6.Practice Buoyancy Control

Good buoyancy control is vital when diving the Galapagos. At some sites where the currents can be strong, some divers drift with the flow or hide behind rocks to save energy. These techniques are fun and useful to learn. Here is how to handle currents and improve your buoyancy control:

  • Practice slow, controlled breathing. Besides keeping you calm, controlled breathing helps with buoyancy control. 
  • Let go. Do not fight against strong currents. Relax, maintain good positioning, and drift safely. You can also wear a transponder as an added safety measure.
  • Hold on. Holding onto volcanic rocks can keep you in place in stronger currents. Just ensure you are wearing proper gloves.

The currents are part of what makes diving the Galapagos exciting. Learning to handle them safely will make your dive a perfect pelagic adventure. Consider taking a Waves, Tides & Currents and a Perfect Buoyancy course before your trip so you are well prepared for the conditions.

7.Equalize and Stay Calm

Diving into deeper waters can be a little unnerving the first time but equalizing your ear pressure early and often makes it easier. Use the Lowry Technique—pinching your nose and blowing gently while swallowing. If you feel discomfort, ascend a little and try again. There is no need to rush.

Staying calm underwater is vitally important for your safety. Anytime you feel anxious, take a moment to concentrate on your breathing and be aware of your surroundings. 

Practice your breathing technique and stay calm. This is handy when you get your first close-up of a large animal swimming toward you. Do not let panic overwhelm you! Remind yourself that you are in a beautiful place. Take it slowly and enjoy yourself.

RELATED: How to Overcome Diver Panic and Anxiety – Part I

What Marine Life Can You See?

The underwater world of the Galapagos is magical, teeming with life. Here is what you may spot when diving the Galapagos:

  • Sea lions - these playful animals often interact with divers, swimming past and checking you out.
  • Marine iguanas - only found in the Galapagos, these marine dragons are actually algae grazers.
  • Hammerhead sharks - nothing tops seeing a hammerhead swim through a school of fish.
  • Whale sharks and Mola mola - spotting these gentle animals is an amazing experience.

It is not unusual for marine life to be curious about you, too. They may swim around you or brush against you. While these encounters are magical, be respectful. Remember, you are in their domain. Do not touch, chase after, or act aggressively toward any animals you meet.

READ MORE: Learn to Scuba Dive with Confidence: Answers to 13 Scuba Diving FAQs

Top Tips for New Divers

While planning your first dive trip to the Galapagos, remember these top tips:

  • Communication is vital. Tell your Divemaster or guide everything about your experience and concerns. They will tailor the dive to your abilities and keep you safe.
  • Always dive with a buddy. Having an experienced diving buddy means you are safer (essential) and have someone to share your adventures with.
  • Stay fit. Do as many cardio and strength exercises as you can to be able to handle all challenges.
  • Know your limits. If you are not feeling 100% confident about a dive, do not do it. We have all been there, and everyone respects someone who knows when to say no. Dive only when you are ready and comfortable.

Diving in the Galapagos is an unmatched, amazing experience for all divers. There may be challenges like cooler water, currents, and heavier equipment. You may feel nervous. While all these may be true, so is this: 

Diving the Galapagos will be the most incredible adventure ever!

You will swim with hammerheads and see underwater beauty that surpasses anything you have imagined. You will learn to trust your training and skills. You will have new confidence and stories to last a lifetime. Is diving in the Galapagos islands worth it for a new diver? Absolutely yes! 

Are you ready for the ultimate adventure? 

Go Diving in the Galapagos!